Originally Posted by RezZ

Most of what you said is correct but Iv played some killer Mapex Sets. I think there lower end is certainly crap, maybe even more crap than other brands lower end gear.

Also try out Paiste. Amazing sound. Granted one should base much off brand, only off the pleasing sound it may give. Granted personally if a bunch of records I love were recorded on a Pearl Export I would definitely take that under heavy consideration.

Ps. Try possibly looking at a Pearl Forum. A version on there masters and export series geared towards beginners.