What is the shell thickness of the Mapex Comet Series?

The shells are constructed with 9-ply poplar and have a thickness of 7.2mm, providing a warm and resonant tone.

What does the SONIClear bearing edge do?

The SONIClear bearing edge allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell, making tuning easier and producing a cleaner, more powerful sound.

Is a drum throne included with the Mapex Comet kit?

Yes, the kit comes accompanied by a Mapex T400 Drum Throne to ensure player comfort during practice.

What hardware upgrades are featured in this series?

The Comet Series features robust 400 series footboards for both the hi-hat stand and the bass drum pedal for improved playability.

How does the Comet Series relate to the Mapex Tornado?

The Comet Series builds upon the legacy of the Mapex Tornado series, offering upgraded hardware and technical features like SONIClear edges.

What finish is available for this specific model?

This specific version of the Mapex Comet Series Compact 18 comes in an Indigo Blue finish.

Are cymbals included in the package?

Yes, the manufacturer describes the kit as including upgraded cymbals as part of the complete package.

Who is the primary target audience for this drum kit?

The kit is tailor-made for budding drummers and students who are just embarking on their musical journey.

What is the typical price range for the Mapex Comet Compact 18?

The typical price for this specific Indigo Blue configuration is approximately £408.

How does the sound of poplar shells compare to other woods?

Poplar shells in the Comet Series produce warm, resonant tones that are designed to fill a room, offering a versatile sound for beginners.

Is the bass drum a standard 22-inch size?

No, this is the 'Compact 18' version, meaning it features an 18-inch bass drum which is smaller and more portable than standard kits.

What other kits are comparable to the Mapex Comet?

Related products include the Yamaha Rydeen 20-inch kit and the Sonor AQ2 Safari, though the Comet focuses on accessibility for new players.

Gear article

Mapex Comet Series Compact 18 Drum Kit

The Mapex Comet Series Compact 18 is an entry-level acoustic drum kit designed for beginner percussionists, featuring 9-ply poplar shells and the proprietary SONIClear bearing edge system. It serves as an evolution of the established Mapex Tornado series, offering a complete hardware package including upgraded cymbals and 400 series pedals.

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Overview and Construction

The Mapex Comet Series Compact 18 is an acoustic drum kit specifically engineered for students and budding drummers. The kit is constructed from 9-ply poplar, with shells measuring 7.2mm in thickness. This choice of material and construction provides a balance of durability and resonance, suitable for a wide variety of musical genres. The 'Compact 18' designation refers to the 18-inch bass drum, which offers a smaller footprint compared to standard 22-inch kits, making it an ideal choice for younger players or those with limited practice space.

Technical Features

A primary technical advancement in the Comet Series is the inclusion of SONIClear bearing edges. This design feature allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell, which simplifies the tuning process for beginners and ensures a more direct transmission of energy into the shell. The hardware has been significantly upgraded from previous entry-level Mapex iterations, now featuring 400 series footboards on both the hi-hat stand and the bass drum pedal for smoother mechanical action. The kit is sold as a complete package, including a Mapex T400 drum throne and upgraded cymbals.

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Sound Character

Due to the 9-ply poplar shells, the Mapex Comet produces a warm and resonant tone. Poplar is known in drum manufacturing for its soft, boosted high and mid frequencies with a punchy low-end. The SONIClear edges further refine this character by providing a cleaner, more powerful sound with improved pitch stability, helping the kit to fill a room despite its more compact dimensions.

Market Position and Comparison

Positioned at a competitive price point of approximately £408, the Comet Series is an accessible alternative to higher-end shells. While professional-grade kits like the DW Performance Series or the Ludwig Neusonic offer different shell materials (such as maple or cherry blends) and larger configurations, the Comet Series prioritises value-for-money by including all necessary hardware. It competes directly with other entry-to-mid-level options such as the Yamaha Rydeen or the Sonor AQ2 Safari, distinguishing itself through its specific bearing edge technology and complete accessory package.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell thickness of the Mapex Comet Series?: The shells are constructed with 9-ply poplar and have a thickness of 7.2mm, providing a warm and resonant tone.
What does the SONIClear bearing edge do?: The SONIClear bearing edge allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell, making tuning easier and producing a cleaner, more powerful sound.
Is a drum throne included with the Mapex Comet kit?: Yes, the kit comes accompanied by a Mapex T400 Drum Throne to ensure player comfort during practice.
What hardware upgrades are featured in this series?: The Comet Series features robust 400 series footboards for both the hi-hat stand and the bass drum pedal for improved playability.
How does the Comet Series relate to the Mapex Tornado?: The Comet Series builds upon the legacy of the Mapex Tornado series, offering upgraded hardware and technical features like SONIClear edges.
What finish is available for this specific model?: This specific version of the Mapex Comet Series Compact 18 comes in an Indigo Blue finish.
Are cymbals included in the package?: Yes, the manufacturer describes the kit as including upgraded cymbals as part of the complete package.
Who is the primary target audience for this drum kit?: The kit is tailor-made for budding drummers and students who are just embarking on their musical journey.
What is the typical price range for the Mapex Comet Compact 18?: The typical price for this specific Indigo Blue configuration is approximately £408.
How does the sound of poplar shells compare to other woods?: Poplar shells in the Comet Series produce warm, resonant tones that are designed to fill a room, offering a versatile sound for beginners.
Is the bass drum a standard 22-inch size?: No, this is the 'Compact 18' version, meaning it features an 18-inch bass drum which is smaller and more portable than standard kits.
What other kits are comparable to the Mapex Comet?: Related products include the Yamaha Rydeen 20-inch kit and the Sonor AQ2 Safari, though the Comet focuses on accessibility for new players.