I'm not a Rogers expert but I think I've read that for the very early Dynas Rogers bought their shells from Gretsch and those had a different number of lines than the later shells they made (or had made) themselves.

Anyway, I think that is the difference, I should probably look it up but I'm on my way out the door. I'm sure someone will correct me if I am wrong.

Try this link: http://www.mikedolbear.com/story.asp?StoryID=504&Source=Archive

Great Info!!!!! That answered it! Thanks Clapping Happy2

The five rolled ribs made the shell more resistant to denting. This allowed them to make the shell slightly lighter as well.

The early shells from Gretsch did not have the two ribs on the top/bottom of the shell. They did have the seven lines, however.

At least one part is inaccurate:

At number 2701 Rogers began to use cast lugs on the seven line shells and then finally at number 14001 when the drums were assembled in California, they came with five line shells and the cast lugs.

Sorry, hit send by mistake.

I have a 5-line from 1967 with serial number in the high 11,000 range, for which the sales slip is in my possesion. I bought it from the original owner. It is a Dayton drum and came with a flat grey 1967 blue onyx Buddy Rich Celebrity model kit.

the five line shells started much earlier than 14001. They came in around 1967. The move to Fullerton was in 1969.

For example:

Just had a quick look and my 5 line is in the 1300's.

Is there any overall sonic differences between the types of shell?

You mean 13,000's?

There is not much difference in sound between the 2, the 7line may be a small bit louder, depending on the heads...