Tama PX42S-CCO Starclassic Performer BB EFX Charcoal Onyx

General

Though it's part of Tama's Starclassic line of drums, the Starclassic Performer Birch Bubinga really is in a league of its own. This four-piece shell set consists of birch shells that have a few plies of bubinga applied to the inside. Bubinga is an African wood type that is usually 53% harder than maple and birch, resulting in a great emphasis on the low-end. Combined with the great attack provided by the birch, this hybrid kit delivers a fantastic sound. The Starclassic Performer EFX Charcoal Onyx consists of a 22-inch bass drum, 10 and 12-inch toms and a 16-inch floor tom.

Tama Starclassic Performer Birch Bubinga EFX Charcoal Onyx: hardware

Not only does Tama make high-quality shells, they also make ultra-sturdy hardware. This shell set, for instance, is equipped with the Star-Cast tom mounting system, which has become a mainstay on Tama's drum sets. The streamlined design and minimal contact with the shells allow for optimal resonance. This Birch Bubinga configuration has an aluminium tom mounting system, which is very lightweight and allows for a more natural tonal vibration. Furthermore, this Starclassic Performer EFX in Vintage Charcoal Onyx has zinc die-cast hoops, instead of the common triple-flanged hoops. These hoops don't just create a sharper attack and clear highs, but they also allow for more powerful rim-shots and, more importantly, they make sure your tuning stays consistent.

Finding the ideal position for your toms has never been easier, thanks to Tama's Starclassic Performance tom holder. This has a sliding connector, which you can slide back and forth up to about 5 centimetres. By simply loosening the wing bolt, you can adjust your toms to suit your preference in no time at all.

Bass drum

The bass drum that is part of this Charcoal Onyx shell set is equipped with sturdy claw hooks. These have a rubber lining, that minimises the chance of your wooden hoops being damaged. The Air-Cushioned bass drum legs also deserve honourable mention. 'Air Cushioned' means they're equipped with a special air chamber that prevents the sound and sustain of your bass drum from disappearing into the ground, and it absorbs most of the shocks created by your playing.

This great-looking and above all great-sounding shell set comes with high-quality Evans drumheads.

• Please note: this shell set is supplied without hardware or cymbals.