Pearl OPT0708 Optimount Holder

Let's deal with the basics first. This is a well-made piece of kit - solid and sturdy as you would expect of Pearl. Easy enough to fit. You have to remove two tension rods from the top and bottom of the drum and then re-assemble with the Opti-mount in place. There isn't much space between the back of the Opti-mount and the shell, so it is not likely that it could be mounted over an exsiting tom mount. You will either have to remove the existing tom mount or put the optimount somewhere else on the shell (it could go anywhere).

There is a fair amount of adjustment but don't rely on Pearl's own guidance as to size. I bought two optimounts for a 1960s Slingerland kit. The Optimount designed to fit 7-8" deep toms fitted the 12 x 8 perfectly. But the larger Optimount (the one designed for 9-10" deep toms) was just a little too big for the 13 X 9 and is a bit loose. It would be helpful if Pearl gave clearer technical specifications (i.e. the precise adjustment range) to avoid this. I will at some point buy another smaller Optimount for the 13" tom.

Don't expect a radical change to the sound. I noticed no change in sustain (neither an increase nor decrease). Do expect the flexibity and strength of modern hardware. And the wonderful thing is that you get to mount vintage toms using modern hardware without any drilling. So you can keep your vintage gear in original condition while getting most of the benefits of modern hardware. Works perfectly for me. I can now adjust the Slingerland toms exactly as I want them and have no concerns over anything breaking or coming loose in the middle of a performance.