Badges Drum Shop

I've been going to Badges almost since the store opened, and just realized I've never written a review. I'll try to keep it brief. I love this store! Charlie has a deep passion for drums and cymbals, and it shows in everything he does! He understands the store's place in the market, and he is simply the best within his niche. You can find boutique and rare cymbals, one-of-a-kind or rare or antique drums, and drum sets ranging from excellent value student sets to high-end professional or custom kits. Badges also carries the day-to-day necessities. If you need a 5-octave rosewood marimba, a complete marching Batterie, or a set of Walter Light timpani, you're not going to find them here. If you need information on high-end or rare historic drums: he either knows the answer himself or knows someone who does. If you are a casual drummer who needs a pair a sticks or looking for a present for someone special, Charlie can help you or guide you. If you're a drum lover, you really need to set aside some time to come in and see this place! One last thing: A great drum shop is a place to find others who have a passion for the instrument. This is one of those places. . Sometimes we just hang out and talk drums. I usually learn something valuable. Sometimes I'll contribute something useful (I hope). I always enjoy it! Thank you, Badges - I wish you continued success and joy doing what you love!

I wanted to make sure to leave a glowing review for the best—really the ONLY—drum shop in Cincinnati. This place is awesome! The owner, Charlie, is extremely nice, knowledgeable, and professional. And his mother that works there is fantastic too! In an age of online-only sales (especially for niche products like pro-tier drums and cymbals), it is amazing to have a shop like this in the area. I recently ordered a new add-on special order Ludwig drum (6x8” Classic Maple concert tom) from Charlie to match my existing Ludwig kit, and the ordering process was a breeze, and when the drum arrived it was absolutely perfect. If you’re a drummer who likes quality gear—whether new or vintage—you HAVE to check out this shop!

What a drum shop! I’ve been to Badges more times than I can count, and it’s always been the best experience a drummer could want. Charlie is an exceptional human, and runs a fantastic shop. You can tell the minute you walk in the door - this is something special. I highly highly encourage any drummer anywhere close to the Cincinnati area to stop in and check it out!

This place is amazing ! So perfectly set up with a wide selection of choices in all categories. Charlie was the best ! They even opened up the store an hour early as I was driving through town with limited time. I of course fell in love with a vintage slingerland kit that I purchased a few days later. The packages arrived quickly and were meticulously packed with the greatest attention to detail. This store is truly one of a kind and their passion for music and drumming shows in the details and layout of the store. So if you're anywhere in the area or just traveling by...... it's worth the trip!

One of the single greatest music shops in the country. We locals are blessed to have Charlie and the crew here in Cincinnati, and it is absolutely a destination store. A leather bound love letter to drums and percussion.