JulesI have known for a few months now that not only was the entire ProLite series going away, but there is no plan to keep the ProLite snare drums in the Sonor product line. Some of these models have been available for many years under different model designations.
Why? My opinion:
I think the Kompressor line was released in response to market demand and with that Sonor has covered lots of bases never before available from the brand. And with the Kompressors, at least two things have occurred:
1) They have a great, workhorse snare drum with OSM shells at a price point that is much more market friendly, and:
2) At the current price points, the Kompressor series has attracted new buyers who have or will buy more and more Sonor gear; which is certainly something that a strong company needs in order to maintain its relevance.
So, what's that answer?
Maybe we will see some limited run drums hit the market from time to time. I think that's a good idea because it gives guys like us a shot at something appealing, and yet it's a blip on the screen, meaning that inventory levels aren't having to be maintained, and dealers should see fast turnover of inventory on such things. Give us the toys we have been wanting without saturating the market and wasting warehouse space. Why do I think it's a good idea? 100 $5,500 HLD 590 Anniversary drums sold in the blink of an eye. If that isn't a testament to interest in short run throwbacks, I don't know what is.
What else?
I suggested that a new butt plate be designed that would allow for replacement (with proper placement) by the Dual Glide model. In the absence of that, create a butt plate adapter to retro fit the Dual Glide butt plate onto the current hole placements. Now, you can trick out your Kompressor with a full Dual Glide System and Hellas and the end result is STILL a kick ass snare drum while supporting the purpose of the Kompressor series.
Time will tell what they do, but I don't think Sonor's premium snares are gone for good. I think we will see a return of the top end features when the time is right.