This hoop is worth serious consideration. Combines the properties of triple flanged and die-cast. It darkens the tone of the drum, but doesn't dry it out too much, and gives a great rim shot/click sound. It also seems to hold it's tuning a little better, as it's a lot more robust. Looks great, really neat and satisfying construction, with some weight to it and a nice logo sticker. The best thing though is how it feels when it's struck with rim shots. It honestly feels like hitting butter. The fact that it protects your bearing edges is just a plus; because us drummers really shouldn't be doing that in the first place, right?