As an extra feature, from 2017 you can choose for original Calfskin drumheads when ordering Gretsch Broadkaster drums. The drum skins are manufactured by Stern Tanning after acquiring United Rawhide located in Chicago - the only manufacturer remaining in America. Back in the 1960's United Rawhide used to supply heads to Ludwig, Gretsch and Slingerland.
The Calfskin heads that come with the Broadkaster are not cheap and will cost over $300 extra. The sound however, does make it an option to consider, as you can see in the video.

Gretsch Broadkaster setup in this video:
- Navy Blue Duco
- Vintage build with Calfskin heads
- 8x12 rack
- 14x14 floor
- 14x18 kick
- 5x14 snare

Gibraltar hardware
- 8700PK Hardware Pack
- 9811SGD Stealth G Drive Single Pedal