What is included in the Mapex Mars Birch 5pc Fusion Shell Pack?

The pack includes five drum shells: a 20-inch bass drum, two rack toms, a floor tom, and a matching snare drum. It is a shell pack, meaning hardware, cymbals, and pedals are sold separately.

What material are the shells made from?

The shells are constructed from 100 per cent birch, utilizing a 6-ply design for durability and specific tonal characteristics.

What is the benefit of the SONIClear bearing edge?

The SONIClear bearing edge allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell. This results in easier tuning, a more consistent pitch, and a stronger fundamental tone.

Is a snare drum included with this kit?

Yes, a matching birch snare drum is included in this 5-piece configuration to ensure a cohesive look and sound.

What does the 'Fusion' designation mean for the sizes?

Fusion typically refers to a setup with a smaller bass drum (20 inches) and specific tom diameters, offering a punchier, more controlled sound compared to standard 'Rock' sizes.

What is the SONIClear suspension system?

It is a mounting system for the toms that avoids drilling into the shell, thereby preserving the natural resonance and vibration of the wood.

Are cymbals and stands included in the price?

No, this is a shell pack only. You will need to provide your own cymbal stands, hi-hat stand, snare stand, bass drum pedal, and cymbals.

What finish does this specific model feature?

This model features a Diamond Sparkle finish, providing a reflective and professional aesthetic for live performances.

How do the bass drum claws function?

The bass drum claws are rubber-insulated. This protects the hoops from scratches and ensures that the hardware remains quiet and secure during play.

Is this kit suitable for studio recording?

Yes, the birch shells provide a crisp attack and focused low end that is highly sought after by recording engineers for its clarity.

How does this kit compare to the Mapex Mars Maple series?

While the Maple version offers a warmer, more balanced tone, the Birch version provided here delivers a brighter, punchier sound with more immediate attack.

What is the typical price for this shell pack in the UK?

The typical price range for this specific Mapex Mars Birch 20-inch shell pack is approximately £999.

Gear article

Mapex Mars Birch 20 5pc Fusion Shell Pack

The Mapex Mars Birch 20 5pc Fusion Shell Pack is a professional-grade acoustic drum kit featuring 100 per cent birch 6-ply shells. Designed for both live performance and studio recording, it incorporates Mapex's proprietary SONIClear bearing edge technology to enhance tonal clarity and ease of tuning.

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Overview and Construction

The Mapex Mars Birch 20 5pc Fusion Shell Pack in Diamond Sparkle is a mid-to-high level drum kit designed to provide a balance of projection and focused tone. The shells are constructed from six plies of 100 per cent birch, a tonewood favoured for its crispness and durability. This specific configuration is a 'Fusion' pack, typically featuring a 20-inch bass drum, which offers a slightly tighter and more controlled response than larger 22-inch alternatives.

Technological inclusions such as the SONIClear suspension system allow the toms to vibrate freely without the dampening effect often caused by standard mounting hardware. This ensures the kit maintains a vibrant, open sound profile even under heavy playing conditions.

Key Hardware Features

A defining technical characteristic of this kit is the SONIClear bearing edge. This design allows the drumhead to sit flatter against the shell, which significantly simplifies the tuning process and broadens the tuning range. By increasing the contact between the head and the shell, the drum produces a more consistent and robust sound.

Additional hardware details include rubber-insulated bass drum claws. These serve two purposes: they protect the wooden hoops from cosmetic damage and eliminate potential rattle or sympathetic vibrations during high-volume use. The shell pack also includes a matching birch snare drum, ensuring visual and sonic consistency across the entire setup.

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Tonal Character

Birch is renowned in the percussion industry for its 'EQ-ed' sound, characterised by boosted high frequencies and a punchy low end with a slightly reduced midrange. This makes the Mars Birch kit particularly well-suited for studio recording where clarity and separation are paramount. The combination of the 6-ply construction and the SONIClear edges results in a kit with strong projection and a fast, clean attack.

Target Audience and Application

This shell pack is positioned for drummers who require a reliable workhorse for varied environments. Its focused tone and reliable tuning stability make it an excellent choice for session musicians and gigging drummers who frequently move between different venues. The Diamond Sparkle finish provides a professional aesthetic suitable for stage performances. As a shell pack, it is intended for players who already own or intend to purchase their own cymbals and stands separately.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to other kits in the market, the Mars Birch competes with models like the Yamaha Rydeen or the Tama Superstar Classic. While the Yamaha Rydeen is often considered an entry-level option including hardware, the Mars Birch focuses more on shell technology and professional bearing edges.

Against higher-tier options like the DW Performance Series or the Ludwig Neusonic, the Mapex Mars offers a more accessible price point while retaining birch's specific punchy character. Compared to the Sonor AQ2 series, which offers various shell materials, the Mapex kit is a dedicated birch solution for those who prefer that specific tonal bite over maple or hybrid shells.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Mapex Mars Birch 5pc Fusion Shell Pack?: The pack includes five drum shells: a 20-inch bass drum, two rack toms, a floor tom, and a matching snare drum. It is a shell pack, meaning hardware, cymbals, and pedals are sold separately.
What material are the shells made from?: The shells are constructed from 100 per cent birch, utilizing a 6-ply design for durability and specific tonal characteristics.
What is the benefit of the SONIClear bearing edge?: The SONIClear bearing edge allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell. This results in easier tuning, a more consistent pitch, and a stronger fundamental tone.
Is a snare drum included with this kit?: Yes, a matching birch snare drum is included in this 5-piece configuration to ensure a cohesive look and sound.
What does the 'Fusion' designation mean for the sizes?: Fusion typically refers to a setup with a smaller bass drum (20 inches) and specific tom diameters, offering a punchier, more controlled sound compared to standard 'Rock' sizes.
What is the SONIClear suspension system?: It is a mounting system for the toms that avoids drilling into the shell, thereby preserving the natural resonance and vibration of the wood.
Are cymbals and stands included in the price?: No, this is a shell pack only. You will need to provide your own cymbal stands, hi-hat stand, snare stand, bass drum pedal, and cymbals.
What finish does this specific model feature?: This model features a Diamond Sparkle finish, providing a reflective and professional aesthetic for live performances.
How do the bass drum claws function?: The bass drum claws are rubber-insulated. This protects the hoops from scratches and ensures that the hardware remains quiet and secure during play.
Is this kit suitable for studio recording?: Yes, the birch shells provide a crisp attack and focused low end that is highly sought after by recording engineers for its clarity.
How does this kit compare to the Mapex Mars Maple series?: While the Maple version offers a warmer, more balanced tone, the Birch version provided here delivers a brighter, punchier sound with more immediate attack.
What is the typical price for this shell pack in the UK?: The typical price range for this specific Mapex Mars Birch 20-inch shell pack is approximately £999.