Promark 5A Nylon Tip Mike Portnoy Drum Sticks

The Promark TX420N drumstick is a signature model designed for Mike Portnoy, the legendary progressive rock drummer. This stick is characterized by its specific dimensions, taper, and tip material, catering to drummers who need a fast, articulate, and responsive feel.

Here's a detailed breakdown of its features:

Mike Portnoy Signature Design

The TX420N is custom-designed to suit Mike Portnoy's intricate and dynamic drumming style. It aims to provide the responsiveness and articulation needed for progressive rock and other technically demanding genres.

American Hickory Construction

These sticks are crafted from American Hickory, the most popular and widely used wood for drumsticks. Hickory is prized for its excellent balance of resilience, responsiveness, and durability, providing a classic, natural, and reliable feel that performs consistently across various playing styles.

Unique Diameter and Length

The TX420N has a diameter of 0.531 inches (13.5 mm) and a length of 16 1/8 inches (409.6 mm). This diameter is slightly thinner than a standard 5A, making it feel quick in the hand, while the length provides good reach and leverage.

Long, Narrow Taper for Fast, Responsive Feel

The stick features a long, narrow taper. This design characteristic shifts the balance point towards the butt end of the stick, which results in a fast, responsive, and light feel in the hand. It promotes excellent rebound and allows for rapid stick work and intricate patterns, which are hallmarks of Portnoy's drumming.

Bright and Articulate Nylon Tip

The "N" in TX420N signifies a nylon tip. Nylon tips are known for producing a brighter, more articulate, and clearer sound on cymbals and drumheads compared to wood tips. They also offer increased durability, as they are less prone to chipping or wearing down. The tip shape is oval, which provides a versatile contact surface for various sounds.

Natural Lacquer Finish

The TX420N typically comes with a natural lacquer finish. This clear protective coating allows the natural grain and feel of the hickory wood to come through, providing a smooth and comfortable grip. As it's a natural finish, there are no concerns about color transfer to drumheads or cymbals.

Unrivaled Consistency and American Craftsmanship

Promark employs its proprietary ProMatch process to ensure unparalleled consistency. This advanced system rigorously sorts sticks by weight and pitch, guaranteeing unrivaled consistency from stick to stick and pair to pair. This commitment to quality means drummers can rely on a consistent feel and sound every time they pick up a new pair. All Promark drumsticks are proudly designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA at their Texas facility, adhering to stringent quality controls.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Artist Signature: Mike Portnoy

• Material: American Hickory

• Finish: Natural Lacquer

• Tip Material: Nylon

• Tip Shape: Oval

• Taper: Long, narrow (for fast, responsive feel and excellent rebound)

• Length: 16 1/8 inches (409.6 mm)

• Diameter: 0.531 inches (13.5 mm) - slightly thinner than a 5A

• Tone: Bright, articulate, clear (due to nylon tip)

• Feel: Fast, responsive, balanced for agility

• Durability: Good (hickory), with enhanced tip durability (nylon)

• Consistency: ProMatch process ensures matched weight and pitch

• Origin: Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA

• Intended Use: Progressive rock, fusion, metal, or for drummers who prioritize speed, articulation, clarity, and responsiveness.