What is included in the Mapex Mars Birch 22 6pc Shell Pack?

This package is a 'shell pack,' meaning it includes the drums themselves but does not include hardware (stands, pedals, or thrones) or cymbals. It features a 22-inch bass drum and five additional drums, including an 8 x 7-inch tom.

What material are the shells made of?

The shells are crafted from high-quality birch. Birch is widely used in drum manufacturing for its bright, punchy sound and excellent clarity across different volumes.

What is the unique feature of the bearing edges on this kit?

The kit features SONIClear bearing edges. These are designed to allow the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell, which improves the transfer of vibration and makes the drums easier to tune.

What is the specific finish of this model?

The kit comes in a Sunflower Sparkle finish. This is a bright, reflective finish designed to offer a striking visual presence on stage.

How does the 8 x 7-inch tom affect the kit's versatility?

The addition of an 8 x 7-inch tom allows for a wider melodic range and more complex fills. It provides a higher-pitched voice compared to standard 10 or 12-inch toms.

Is this drum kit suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is an ideal choice for beginners who want a quality kit that will last as they progress. The ease of tuning provided by the SONIClear edges is particularly helpful for those new to the instrument.

Can a professional drummer use the Mapex Mars Birch?

Absolutely. Its high-quality birch construction and professional features like the SONIClear edges make it a reliable and sonically capable choice for professional rehearsals and live gigs.

What is the typical price for this 6-piece shell pack?

The Mapex Mars Birch 22 6pc Shell Pack typically retails for approximately £699 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.

Does this kit include a snare drum?

Yes, as a 6-piece shell pack, it includes a matching snare drum alongside the bass drum and four toms. However, it does not include the stand to hold the snare.

How does birch compare to other wood types like maple?

While maple is known for a warm, balanced tone with plenty of midrange, birch offers more 'attack' and brightness. This makes birch kits like the Mapex Mars very effective for styles requiring clarity and punch.

Are cymbals included with this purchase?

No, cymbals are not included with the Mapex Mars Birch 6pc Shell Pack. These must be purchased separately to complete the drum set.

What kind of hardware is needed to set up this kit?

You will need a bass drum pedal, a snare stand, a hi-hat stand, and cymbal stands. You will also need a drum throne, as these items are excluded from the shell pack.

Gear article

Mapex Mars Birch 22 6pc Shell Pack Sunflower Sparkle

The Mapex Mars Birch 22 6pc Shell Pack is a comprehensive acoustic drum kit designed for drummers seeking professional features at a mid-range price point. Finished in a distinctive Sunflower Sparkle, the kit utilizes high-quality birch shells and Mapex's proprietary SONIClear bearing edge technology to enhance tonal clarity and ease of tuning.

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Overview

The Mapex Mars Birch 6-piece shell pack is a versatile acoustic drum set aimed at a wide spectrum of players, from developing students to gigging professionals. The kit is built around a 22-inch bass drum and includes a standard array of toms, bolstered by the addition of an 8 x 7-inch rack tom for expanded melodic range. The Sunflower Sparkle finish provides a bold, stage-ready aesthetic that distinguishes it from more traditional wood-grain or solid-colour kits.

Technical Features and Construction

The primary structural feature of the Mars series is the use of birch shells, a wood favoured in drum manufacturing for its specific acoustic properties. A critical component of the kit's design is the SONIClear bearing edge. This proprietary Mapex edge allows the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell, facilitating a more direct connection between the head and the wood. This design aims to provide a smoother, more responsive feel and simplifies the tuning process by increasing the tuning range and ensuring consistent pitch.

Sound Character

Birch is traditionally known for producing a 'pre-EQed' sound, characterised by boosted high frequencies and a punchy low end with a slightly reduced midrange. In the context of the Mars Birch kit, this translates to powerful tones and exceptional sound clarity. The drums are designed to produce crisp, clear notes that cut through a musical mix, making them suitable for genres ranging from rock to pop and fusion.

Target Audience

Due to its combination of professional-grade shell construction and an accessible price point of approximately £699, the Mars Birch 6-piece kit is positioned as a versatile 'workhorse' set. It suits beginners looking for a quality long-term investment as well as experienced players requiring a reliable, high-performing kit for rehearsals and live performances. The 6-piece configuration offers more versatility than standard 4 or 5-piece kits, appealing to those who require a wider tonal palette.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other mid-range kits, the Mapex Mars Birch competes with models like the Yamaha Rydeen or the Tama Superstar Classic. While the Yamaha Rydeen is often bundled with hardware and cymbals, the Mars Birch focuses on shell quality and a larger 6-piece configuration. In contrast to high-end options like the DW Performance Series or Ludwig Neusonic, which are often 3 or 4-piece kits at a higher price point, the Mapex offers a higher drum count and specialised bearing edges at a more competitive entry cost.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Mapex Mars Birch 22 6pc Shell Pack?: This package is a 'shell pack,' meaning it includes the drums themselves but does not include hardware (stands, pedals, or thrones) or cymbals. It features a 22-inch bass drum and five additional drums, including an 8 x 7-inch tom.
What material are the shells made of?: The shells are crafted from high-quality birch. Birch is widely used in drum manufacturing for its bright, punchy sound and excellent clarity across different volumes.
What is the unique feature of the bearing edges on this kit?: The kit features SONIClear bearing edges. These are designed to allow the drumhead to sit flatter on the shell, which improves the transfer of vibration and makes the drums easier to tune.
What is the specific finish of this model?: The kit comes in a Sunflower Sparkle finish. This is a bright, reflective finish designed to offer a striking visual presence on stage.
How does the 8 x 7-inch tom affect the kit's versatility?: The addition of an 8 x 7-inch tom allows for a wider melodic range and more complex fills. It provides a higher-pitched voice compared to standard 10 or 12-inch toms.
Is this drum kit suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is an ideal choice for beginners who want a quality kit that will last as they progress. The ease of tuning provided by the SONIClear edges is particularly helpful for those new to the instrument.
Can a professional drummer use the Mapex Mars Birch?: Absolutely. Its high-quality birch construction and professional features like the SONIClear edges make it a reliable and sonically capable choice for professional rehearsals and live gigs.
What is the typical price for this 6-piece shell pack?: The Mapex Mars Birch 22 6pc Shell Pack typically retails for approximately £699 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
Does this kit include a snare drum?: Yes, as a 6-piece shell pack, it includes a matching snare drum alongside the bass drum and four toms. However, it does not include the stand to hold the snare.
How does birch compare to other wood types like maple?: While maple is known for a warm, balanced tone with plenty of midrange, birch offers more 'attack' and brightness. This makes birch kits like the Mapex Mars very effective for styles requiring clarity and punch.
Are cymbals included with this purchase?: No, cymbals are not included with the Mapex Mars Birch 6pc Shell Pack. These must be purchased separately to complete the drum set.
What kind of hardware is needed to set up this kit?: You will need a bass drum pedal, a snare stand, a hi-hat stand, and cymbal stands. You will also need a drum throne, as these items are excluded from the shell pack.