What is the shell material of the Mapex Comet Series?

The shells are made from 9-ply poplar wood with a thickness of 7.2mm. This construction provides a warm, full sound and reliable durability for new players.

How does the Comet Series differ from the Mapex Tornado?

The Comet Series is the successor to the Tornado Series and features significant upgrades. These include better hardware, the inclusion of SONIClear Bearing Edges, and improved 400 series footboards.

What are SONIClear Bearing Edges?

SONIClear Bearing Edges are a Mapex design feature that allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell. This improves the drum's tone and makes it much easier for beginners to tune the kit effectively.

Does the Mapex Comet kit come with a drum throne?

Yes, the kit includes a Mapex T400 Drum Throne. This ensures the player has a comfortable and height-adjustable seat included in the initial purchase.

What hardware is included with the Rock Fusion kit?

The kit includes a full set of hardware featuring 400 series footboards on the bass drum pedal and hi-hat stand. These components are designed for better response and longevity compared to standard entry-level stands.

Are cymbals included with the Mapex Comet Series?

Yes, the manufacturer includes upgraded cymbals as part of the Comet package. This allows the drummer to start playing immediately without purchasing additional components.

What is the typical price for this drum kit?

The Mapex Comet Series Compact 22 Rock Fusion kit is typically priced at approximately £438. This price includes the full shell pack, hardware, and cymbals.

Is this kit suitable for adults or just children?

The kit is designed for aspiring drummers of all ages. Its standard 22-inch 'Rock Fusion' sizing is a full-sized configuration that accommodates adult players while remaining accessible for younger students.

What does the 'Dark Black' finish look like?

The Dark Black finish is a sleek, professional-looking wrap. It is designed to be durable and fits well in various musical settings, from practice rooms to stage performances.

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

Poplar shells, such as those in the Comet series, offer a warm and soft tone with a boosted low-end. It is a popular choice for beginner kits because it is consistent and easy to record or amplify.

Can the hardware on the Comet Series withstand frequent use?

Yes, the inclusion of 400 series hardware components ensures higher durability and better response than typical starter kits. It is designed to withstand the regular practice sessions of an improving drummer.

How does this kit compare to a Yamaha Rydeen?

Both are high-quality entry-level kits including hardware. However, the Mapex Comet differentiates itself with the SONIClear Bearing Edges and specific 400 series hardware upgrades included at its price point.

Gear article

Mapex Comet Series Compact 22 Rock Fusion Drum Kit

The Mapex Comet Series Compact 22 Rock Fusion is an entry-level acoustic drum kit designed for beginners and students. It builds upon the legacy of the Tornado Series by offering upgraded hardware and specialized bearing edges to provide a high-value, comprehensive package for aspiring drummers.

See live prices

Overview and History

The Mapex Comet Series serves as the primary successor to the popular Tornado Series, which was a long-standing staple in the beginner drum market. Developed to provide a value-packed entry point, the Comet Series introduces several refinements intended to bridge the gap between starter kits and professional-grade equipment. The 'Rock Fusion' configuration typically refers to a versatile sizing layout that accommodates various musical styles, while the 'Dark Black' finish provides a classic, neutral aesthetic suitable for any performance environment.

Shell Construction and SONIClear Technology

The shells are constructed from 9-ply poplar, measuring 7.2mm in thickness. Poplar is known for its consistent density and warmth, providing a forgiving response for those learning dynamic control. A significant technical feature of this kit is the inclusion of Mapex’s proprietary SONIClear Bearing Edges. This design allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell, which increases the contact area between the head and the wood. The result is a more focused fundamental pitch and a significantly simplified tuning process, which is often a primary challenge for novice drummers.

Upgraded Hardware and Cymbals

Unlike many basic starter kits, the Comet Series includes a complete hardware suite that emphasizes durability. It features the Mapex 400 series footboards on the pedals, which offer a more responsive feel and smoother action than standard entry-level hardware. The package also includes a Mapex T400 drum throne, ensuring the player has a stable and comfortable foundation. The kit is supplied with upgraded cymbals, providing a ready-to-play solution out of the box.

Sound Profile and Suitability

The Comet Series is characterized by a full, warm sound profile attributed to the 9-ply poplar construction. The drums produce a resonant tone that rivals more expensive semi-professional models, avoiding the 'boxy' sound often associated with budget kits. It is specifically tailored for beginners of all ages who require a durable instrument that can grow with them. The SONIClear edges ensure that even with less-than-perfect tuning technique, the kit maintains a clear and musical voice.

Comparison to Alternatives

In the entry-level and intermediate market, the Mapex Comet competes with models like the Yamaha Rydeen, which also offers a complete hardware package but uses different shell specifications. While high-end shell packs like the DW Performance Series, Tama Superstar Classic, or Ludwig Neusonic offer professional-grade woods and finishes, they are generally sold without the hardware and cymbals included in the Comet package, and at a higher price point. The Comet stands out by offering a 'comprehensive tool for musical growth' at a fixed price of approximately £438, including a throne and pedals that are often sold separately in other lines.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of the Mapex Comet Series?: The shells are made from 9-ply poplar wood with a thickness of 7.2mm. This construction provides a warm, full sound and reliable durability for new players.
How does the Comet Series differ from the Mapex Tornado?: The Comet Series is the successor to the Tornado Series and features significant upgrades. These include better hardware, the inclusion of SONIClear Bearing Edges, and improved 400 series footboards.
What are SONIClear Bearing Edges?: SONIClear Bearing Edges are a Mapex design feature that allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell. This improves the drum's tone and makes it much easier for beginners to tune the kit effectively.
Does the Mapex Comet kit come with a drum throne?: Yes, the kit includes a Mapex T400 Drum Throne. This ensures the player has a comfortable and height-adjustable seat included in the initial purchase.
What hardware is included with the Rock Fusion kit?: The kit includes a full set of hardware featuring 400 series footboards on the bass drum pedal and hi-hat stand. These components are designed for better response and longevity compared to standard entry-level stands.
Are cymbals included with the Mapex Comet Series?: Yes, the manufacturer includes upgraded cymbals as part of the Comet package. This allows the drummer to start playing immediately without purchasing additional components.
What is the typical price for this drum kit?: The Mapex Comet Series Compact 22 Rock Fusion kit is typically priced at approximately £438. This price includes the full shell pack, hardware, and cymbals.
Is this kit suitable for adults or just children?: The kit is designed for aspiring drummers of all ages. Its standard 22-inch 'Rock Fusion' sizing is a full-sized configuration that accommodates adult players while remaining accessible for younger students.
What does the 'Dark Black' finish look like?: The Dark Black finish is a sleek, professional-looking wrap. It is designed to be durable and fits well in various musical settings, from practice rooms to stage performances.
How does the sound of poplar shells compare to other woods?: Poplar shells, such as those in the Comet series, offer a warm and soft tone with a boosted low-end. It is a popular choice for beginner kits because it is consistent and easy to record or amplify.
Can the hardware on the Comet Series withstand frequent use?: Yes, the inclusion of 400 series hardware components ensures higher durability and better response than typical starter kits. It is designed to withstand the regular practice sessions of an improving drummer.
How does this kit compare to a Yamaha Rydeen?: Both are high-quality entry-level kits including hardware. However, the Mapex Comet differentiates itself with the SONIClear Bearing Edges and specific 400 series hardware upgrades included at its price point.