What is the shell material used in the Mapex Venus kit?

The kit features shells made entirely of poplar, which is selected for its warm and resonant tonal characteristics.

Does this kit come with cymbals?

Yes, it includes a set of Mapex-designed hammered brass cymbals, featuring 14" hi-hats, a 16" crash, and a 20" ride.

What are the dimensions of the bass drum?

The bass drum measures 20 inches in diameter by 16 inches in depth, offering a compact footprint.

What technology is used for the drum bearing edges?

The kit uses SONIClear bearing edge technology, which increases drum head-to-shell contact for better resonance and easier tuning.

What color is the finish on this specific model?

This specific model features a Crimson Red Sparkle finish.

Is this a complete kit or just a shell pack?

It is a complete 5-piece kit that includes the drums, cymbals, and necessary hardware for setup.

What are the sizes of the toms included?

The kit includes two rack toms (10" x 7" and 12" x 8") and one floor tom (14" x 12").

What is the size of the snare drum?

The kit comes with a matching 14" x 5" snare drum.

Who is the Mapex Venus kit primarily designed for?

It is designed for developing drummers who are looking to upgrade from a beginner set to a higher-quality instrument.

How does the SONIClear edge affect tuning?

By allowing the head to sit flatter, it reduces the need for high tension to get the head in tune, making it easier for less experienced players to achieve a good sound.

What is the typical price for this Mapex kit?

The typical price for this complete configuration is approximately £544.

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

Poplar is generally warmer and softer than birch or maple, providing a smooth tone that is versatile across many musical genres.

Gear article

Mapex Venus 20 5pc Drum Kit

The Mapex Venus 20 5pc Drum Kit is a comprehensive acoustic drum set designed for developing drummers. Built with all-poplar shells and finished in Crimson Red Sparkle, it offers a complete package including hardware and hammered brass cymbals.

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Overview

The Mapex Venus series is positioned as a bridge for drummers moving from beginner kits to more professional configurations. The 20-inch 5-piece kit in Crimson Red Sparkle is a fusion-sized setup, making it physically more compact than standard rock kits while remaining versatile enough for various musical environments. Unlike shell packs, this is a complete solution that includes the shells, hardware, and a set of cymbals.

Shell Construction and Technology

The drums are constructed from poplar, a wood known for its soft, consistent grain. This choice of material focuses on delivering a warm and resonant tone. A central feature of the Venus series is the inclusion of Mapex's proprietary SONIClear bearing edges. These edges are designed to allow the drum head to sit flatter against the shell, which improves the contact between the head and the wood. This technology simplifies the tuning process and increases the overall resonance and depth of the drum.

Component Specifications

The kit follows a 5-piece fusion arrangement:

Bass Drum: 20" x 16"
Snare Drum: 14" x 5"
Rack Toms: 10" x 7" and 12" x 8"
Floor Tom: 14" x 12"

Accompanying the shells is a set of hammered brass cymbals, consisting of 14" hi-hats, a 16" crash, and a 20" ride. These cymbals are chosen for their durability and harmonic richness, providing a complete frequency range for the player.

Sound Profile

The all-poplar shell design provides a balanced sound profile characterised by warmth. The SONIClear edges ensure that even at lower tensions, the drums maintain a full-bodied sound with clear fundamental pitches. The hammered brass cymbals contribute a versatile palette that avoids the harshness sometimes associated with entry-level brass, offering a more musical response suitable for different genres.

Market Comparison

Within the £500 to £600 price bracket, the Mapex Venus competes with kits like the Yamaha Rydeen, which also offers a 20" bass drum configuration. While it shares some aesthetic similarities with higher-end kits like the Ludwig Neusonic or Tama Superstar Classic, those models are typically sold as shell packs (without cymbals or hardware) and utilize different wood types like maple or birch. The Venus stands out by providing a ready-to-play package at a price point accessible to intermediate students.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material used in the Mapex Venus kit?: The kit features shells made entirely of poplar, which is selected for its warm and resonant tonal characteristics.
Does this kit come with cymbals?: Yes, it includes a set of Mapex-designed hammered brass cymbals, featuring 14" hi-hats, a 16" crash, and a 20" ride.
What are the dimensions of the bass drum?: The bass drum measures 20 inches in diameter by 16 inches in depth, offering a compact footprint.
What technology is used for the drum bearing edges?: The kit uses SONIClear bearing edge technology, which increases drum head-to-shell contact for better resonance and easier tuning.
What color is the finish on this specific model?: This specific model features a Crimson Red Sparkle finish.
Is this a complete kit or just a shell pack?: It is a complete 5-piece kit that includes the drums, cymbals, and necessary hardware for setup.
What are the sizes of the toms included?: The kit includes two rack toms (10" x 7" and 12" x 8") and one floor tom (14" x 12").
What is the size of the snare drum?: The kit comes with a matching 14" x 5" snare drum.
Who is the Mapex Venus kit primarily designed for?: It is designed for developing drummers who are looking to upgrade from a beginner set to a higher-quality instrument.
How does the SONIClear edge affect tuning?: By allowing the head to sit flatter, it reduces the need for high tension to get the head in tune, making it easier for less experienced players to achieve a good sound.
What is the typical price for this Mapex kit?: The typical price for this complete configuration is approximately £544.
How does the sound of poplar shells compare to other woods?: Poplar is generally warmer and softer than birch or maple, providing a smooth tone that is versatile across many musical genres.