Hey. Has anyone tried the new Vic Firth Virtuoso mallets? I saw a video on the web site of UTA's percussion ensemble, and they were using the mallets. They sounded good in the ensemble setting even though they're mainly solo mallets, and I was wondering if anyone else has used them. I'm asking because I'm considering them for our front ensemble next year so I was wondering how everyone else has liked them. Thanks to all who help.

I barely remember playing with them at Pasic, but from what I recall they're not too bad. If I remember correctly, they felt good in the hands when it came to control, eminiscent to the Zeltsmen series ( especially the NZ5B's). As for outdoor use...I wouldn't recommend it.