What is the shell material of the Mapex Cherry Bomb?

The shell is constructed from 8-ply cherry wood with a total thickness of 8mm.

What are the dimensions of this snare drum?

The drum measures 13 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth.

What makes the Design Lab series different from standard Black Panther snares?

Design Lab drums incorporate advanced modern technology and specific innovations, such as graduated snare beds, to refine the sound beyond standard models.

How does cherry wood affect the sound?

Cherry wood provides a powerful, deep tone with excellent projection, often described as having more punch and a lower fundamental than maple.

What is the benefit of the 2.7mm deep snare bed?

The 2.7mm deep, 5.5-inch graduated snare bed provides a dry and articulate tone by controlling how the snare wires interact with the bottom head.

Is this drum suitable for live performances?

Yes, its 8mm shell and cherry construction are specifically designed for excellent projection on any stage.

How much does the Mapex Black Panther Cherry Bomb typically cost?

The typical price range for this specific snare drum model is approximately £349.

How does the Cherry Bomb compare to a maple snare?

While maple (like the Sonor AQ2) is a standard all-rounder, cherry offers a unique mid-range character and a slightly different harmonic profile.

Is the Mapex Cherry Bomb an electronic drum?

No, despite being categorised alongside electronic kits in some retail databases, it is an acoustic snare drum made of wood.

What kind of snare response can I expect?

The response is articulate and controlled, largely due to the specific graduation of the snare beds which reduces unwanted buzzing.

Does this drum come in different sizes?

This specific Design Lab Cherry Bomb model is defined by its 13 x 5.5-inch dimensions.

How does it compare to a metal snare drum?

Unlike a stainless steel drum like the DW Collectors Series, the Cherry Bomb has a warmer, woodier tone with fewer metallic overtones.

Gear article

Mapex Black Panther Design Lab Cherry Bomb 13 x 5.5 Snare Drum

The Mapex Black Panther Design Lab Cherry Bomb is a professional-grade snare drum featuring an 8-ply, 8mm cherry wood shell. Building on the heritage of the acclaimed Black Panther series, it utilizes modern technology and traditional drum craft to deliver a powerful, articulate tone suitable for stage performances.

See live prices

Overview and Design

The Mapex Black Panther Design Lab Cherry Bomb represents a technical evolution within the Black Panther lineage. Unlike standard production models, the Design Lab series focuses on specific acoustic properties achieved through experimental engineering. The drum is constructed from an 8-ply cherry wood shell with an overall thickness of 8mm, providing a robust structural foundation that balances density with resonant warmth.

Technical Features

A defining characteristic of the Cherry Bomb is its 2.7mm deep snare bed with a 5.5-inch graduation. This specific geometry is designed to control wire response, resulting in a drier and more articulate sound compared to shallower, wider beds. The combination of the smaller 13-inch diameter and the 5.5-inch depth allows for high-tension tuning without sacrificing body or projection.

British Drum Company British Drum Co. Maverick 14 x 5.5 Maple Snare Drum

Sound Character

Cherry wood is known for its distinct tonal profile, offering a deeper fundamental note than maple while maintaining a sharp attack. The 8mm shell thickness enhances projection, making it suitable for live stage environments where volume is required. Users can expect a controlled snare tone that avoids excessive overtones, owing to the precision-engineered snare beds and shell density.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other professional snare drums, the Cherry Bomb offers a unique wood profile. The British Drum Co. Maverick and Sonor AQ2 utilize maple, which generally provides a brighter, more classic pop sound, whereas the cherry wood of the Mapex offers more 'bite' and mid-range focus. For drummers seeking a deeper resonance, the Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 8 offers more low-end, while the DW Collectors Stainless Steel provides a significantly more aggressive, metallic ring. The 13-inch diameter of the Cherry Bomb makes it more compact and potentially quicker in response than standard 14-inch alternatives like the Tama Starclassic Performer LTD.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of the Mapex Cherry Bomb?: The shell is constructed from 8-ply cherry wood with a total thickness of 8mm.
What are the dimensions of this snare drum?: The drum measures 13 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth.
What makes the Design Lab series different from standard Black Panther snares?: Design Lab drums incorporate advanced modern technology and specific innovations, such as graduated snare beds, to refine the sound beyond standard models.
How does cherry wood affect the sound?: Cherry wood provides a powerful, deep tone with excellent projection, often described as having more punch and a lower fundamental than maple.
What is the benefit of the 2.7mm deep snare bed?: The 2.7mm deep, 5.5-inch graduated snare bed provides a dry and articulate tone by controlling how the snare wires interact with the bottom head.
Is this drum suitable for live performances?: Yes, its 8mm shell and cherry construction are specifically designed for excellent projection on any stage.
How much does the Mapex Black Panther Cherry Bomb typically cost?: The typical price range for this specific snare drum model is approximately £349.
How does the Cherry Bomb compare to a maple snare?: While maple (like the Sonor AQ2) is a standard all-rounder, cherry offers a unique mid-range character and a slightly different harmonic profile.
Is the Mapex Cherry Bomb an electronic drum?: No, despite being categorised alongside electronic kits in some retail databases, it is an acoustic snare drum made of wood.
What kind of snare response can I expect?: The response is articulate and controlled, largely due to the specific graduation of the snare beds which reduces unwanted buzzing.
Does this drum come in different sizes?: This specific Design Lab Cherry Bomb model is defined by its 13 x 5.5-inch dimensions.
How does it compare to a metal snare drum?: Unlike a stainless steel drum like the DW Collectors Series, the Cherry Bomb has a warmer, woodier tone with fewer metallic overtones.