On stringed instruments, this is played by sounding a muted string. It should not be confused with the X-shaped notation ( ) that raises a note to a double sharp. In musical notation, this is represented by an 'X' for a note head instead of an oval, or parentheses around the note head. In music, notably in jazz, a ghost note (or a dead, muted, silenced or false note) is a musical note with a rhythmic value, but no discernible pitch when played. I think it would have been prudent to stay clear of any design that had the appearance of infringing on a partner and/or supplier.Illustration of dead note in musical notation and guitar tablature Certainly, from a visual perspective, the design is so similar I've often called it 'the metal version of the Nickel'. Rather, in terms of stewardship in the drumming community, I think the issue is whether the R-Class has the appearance of infringing on Nickel's design. Regarding the intellectual property debate, while I appreciate the situation Ronn was in (having a critical supplier who was consistently providing defective throwoffs), none-the-less, I think the issue many are concerned about isn't whether the R-Class legally violates Greg Nickel's patent. Dunnett's reputation (both positively and negatively charged) has become larger than the hardware itself and that's good reason to go with something more neutral. Still, in regard to the OP, the sentiments expressed by numerous people in this thread are all reasons I wouldn't put Dunnett hardware on a drum.

While I didn't start this sidetrack and my comments weren't intended to stir unstable snow, indeed an avalanche has occurred. In retrospect, your cautioning note was correct. Thanks for your thoughtful and graceful response. Thanks for posting a well thought out and entirely reasonable response. But, just as I don't think it's their place to police threads, it's probably not my place to police their policing. This is probably my problem as much as anything - I've gotten really tired of hijacked threads as an excuse to express a personal opinion unrelated to the topic. Where I draw the line is taking any mention of his name as an opportunity to enlighten. I don't blame anyone for deciding that they will not support him by buying any of his products. That aside, I'll say I think you nailed it by saying that he's his own worst enemy. I've heard this from a couple of sources who I trust. So, the way I look at it, it's possible that the designer of the R-Class was also involved in the design of the Nickel, which could mean that the R-Class design was originally their concept, which would explain why the R-Class looks like an all metal version of the Nickel. Regarding the Nickel portion of the design of the R-Class, it's possible that the Nickel throw off was not designed alone, and that one of the persons involved pulled a fast one on the other party which left them off the patent. However, I'll grant that it's difficult to remain one hundred percent objective in these kinds of circumstances. My intent is to be informative rather than vindictive and I believe, for the most part, that's what others are trying to do as well. Were it not for feedback from others, I'd not have done my own research. But, magically, when it suits Ronn otherwise, Drumsmith becomes his sole property, to do with as he wishes, which includes censoring builders, vendors, members, and other web sites promoting Dunnett products and launching frequent, almost daily attacks against other builders and vendors.įor those following Dunnett's behaviour over the years, none of this is surprising and therefore it's no surprise his mere mention brings strong responses. Ronn claims Drumsmith is a non-profit organization owned by its members.

The debacle that is Drumsmith also isn't lost on anyone. likely borrowed without permission from Ayotte and Nickel Drumworks. The R-Class throwoffs, arguably what Dunnett is most well known for, are based on designs that are. Yesterday, a friend shared Dunnett's current thread on IP (intellectual property) theft. But, a huge part of where I arrived is due to an adage that fits Dunnett well: the man is his own worst enemy. Initially, I thought I'd graciously accept your feedback, end this sidetrack, and lay back. I've had time to think about this and, admittedly, I'm surprised at the outcome.

Ghostnote thread 1946