Imperialstar Entry-Level Drum Set

TAMA Drums debuted their latest entry-level drum set, Imperialstar, at the Summer NAMM musicial instrument convention in Austin.

"Everything—and I do mean everything—on this new set has been reexamined, rethought and redesigned," commented Terry Bissette, drum specialist for TAMA. "The bearing edges are more precise than the Swingstar drums they replace. The cymbals are upgraded—and now you can choose prepack sets without cymbals if you want. The lugs are more streamlined and smaller for more resonance, while the spurs are larger for more stablility, "Even the legs on some of the stands fold up smaller for greater portability."

Imperialstar replaces TAMA's famous Swingstar series,which featured upgrades every year from the 2000 thru 2005 and was the best selling entry-level set in its class for the last three years. Imperialstar sets feature all-new lugs which are more streamlined and 12% smaller than Swingstar lugs for even greater resonance. Other upgrades include stronger, even more stable bass drum spurs, all-new upgraded Stagemaster hardware, a metal snare drum for more penetration in high-volume environments and thicker batter heads.

The new Imperialstar kit features 100% poplar shells. The "Ready To Rock" 5pc kit with hardware, HT25 throne and 14" hi-hats, 16" crash and 20" ride German brass cymbals lists for $985.99. The set without cymbals lists for $822.99.

Other specs:

IS52 Standard Set

9 x 12" tom

10 x 13" tom

16 x 16" floor tom

18 x 22" bass drum

5.5 x 14" snare drum

New Fusion configuration also available

8 x 10" tom

9 x 12" tom

14 x 14" floor tom

18 x 22" bass drum

5.5 x 14" snare drum

Available finishes: MBB Bronze Mist Metallic (pictured), BK Black, MNB Midnight Blue and VTR Vintage Red.