Ludwig 6.5" x 14" “Bowtie Supraphonic” (Large Keystone / Chicago) – Transitional Era, ca. 1984

Ludwig 6.5" x 14" “Bowtie Supraphonic” (Large Keystone / Chicago) – Transitional Era, ca. 1984

A rare transitional-era Supraphonic from Ludwig’s mid-1980s Chicago period — one of the few factory drums to leave the floor with bow-tie (Acrolite-style) lugs instead of Imperials. These hybrid “bowtie Supras” appeared briefly around 1984 as Ludwig shifted production and parts supply during the Chicago-to-Monroe move, making them a genuine collector’s oddity.

Specifications

Size: 6.5" x 14"

Shell: Seamless Ludalloy aluminum, chrome-plated (classic LM402 construction)

Lugs: 10 × Bow-Tie (Acrolite-style) – factory-installed, documented transitional variant

Badge: Large Keystone badge – “Ludwig Chicago, U.S.A.” (no serial number)

Throw-Off / Butt Plate: Original P85 and matching Ludwig butt

Snare Wires: 42-strand (modern replacement)

Batter Head: Evans Genera Dry

Resonant Head: Original Ludwig Resonant snare head

Condition

Excellent vintage condition with light cosmetic wear consistent with age. Chrome is bright throughout; seams and bearing edges are true. The drum tunes easily and delivers the classic LM402 voice — open, bright, and sensitive — with added focus from the Genera Dry head and wide snare response from the 42-strand wires.

Sound & Character

Ludwig’s 6.5x14 Ludalloy shell has been the studio and stage standard for decades — crisp articulation with deep, round body. The bow-tie lugs lend this one a unique visual flair while keeping the unmistakable Supraphonic tone intact.

Very Good condition