Thru years of analyzing our work and the work of others we have come to the conclusion that many of the recurring problems with steel pans is due to a less then ideal barrel. Pan builders have traditionally used 55 gallon (22.5”) barrels as the platform for Steel Pans. History has given us particular patterns of notes that we’ve applied to the instruments. However, in almost every case we’ve been forcing notes into an area that is not large enough (or barely large enough at best). This action reduces the quality potential of each note. Having inadequate surface area forces the tuner to overstretch the metal of the note panel and put adjacent notes too close together. This causes excessive cross bleed and octave cancellation, which leads to interference and “wobbles.” In order to get maximum clarity, strength, and projection each note needs a specific size, shape, thickness, and interstitial to support it. Add it up and that’s how big a pan needs to be! Because of this, we are introducing a new line of larger diameter (26.0”) Rigid Rim pans, which allows us to properly align fundamental, first, and second octaves with appropriate harmonics on each note panel.

The Rigid Rims welded construction provides a more stable platform for each note panel. This increased rigidity also allows for more tension, which better binds the notes in place thus holding tune longer. Many of the problems with older instruments are due to incorrect metal thickness. All of our instruments are now built with thicker steel. We believe each instrument should be built with steel that is thick enough for the largest note. On most “normal” steel pans you’ll find the larger notes of a row will be raspy and/or unstable with little projection power. This is because the note panels are too thin. Often times you’ll also find the highest two or three notes of a row to be “boxy” or short in sustain. This is due to the note panels being too thick. We use an Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge to measure the steels thickness down to .001 of an inch, and then thin each note panel to the desired thickness. This ultimately results in instruments that are much more consistent in tone and feel.

In order to keep costs low and meet the needs of our budget minded clients we will continue to offer pans made from 55 gallon (22.5”) tops. You’ll find the quality of these products actually exceed what we’ve achieved in the past. We are able to do this by employing a number of techniques such as advanced shaping in construction, slightly reduced ranges, and optimizing the metal thickness.

We would never have been able to achieve the results we have without closely studying the work of all the master tuners who have come before us. We’ve employed all the “best practices” that each has brought forth in the evolution of this wonderful instrument that Trinidad & Tobago has given to the world.

We continually invest in science and technology to advance the quality of our products. You’ll find all of our inventory items (except instruments) are usually shipped within 24 hours. Although we do have a backlog for our instruments, we consistently deliver on time as promised…rarely late and sometimes early! As steel drum music continues to capture a larger audience of admirers, Coyle Drums will be here to meet your growing needs. If there is something you’re seeking but don’t see it listed in our catalog, call us! Chances are we can get it for you. After all…you’re the reason we’re here