Tama PX42S-VNS Starclassic Performer EFX Vintage Nickel Sparkle

General

Though it's part of Tama's Starclassic line of drums, the Starclassic Performer Birch Bubinga is in a league of its own. This beautiful 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, which helps it emphasise the lower tones. Combined with the great attack provided by the birch, this hybrid kit delivers a fantastic sound. The Starclassic Performer EFX Vintage Nickel Sparkle shell set consists of a 22-inch bass drum, 10 and 12-inch toms and a 16-inch floor tom.

Tama Starclassic Performer BB EFX Vintage Nickel Sparkle: high-quality 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. On the Birch Bubinga kits, this mounting system is made of aluminium, which is lighter and allows for a more natural tonal vibration. Furthermore, this Starclassic Performer EFX in Vintage Nickel Sparkle 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 tom holder has what Tama calls 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 EFX shell set is equipped with sturdy claw hooks. These hooks are fitted with a rubber lining, which essentially reduces the chance of them damaging the wooden hoops to zero. 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 comes with high-quality Evans drumheads.

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