Gear article

Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22" 3 Piece Shell Pack

The Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22" 3 Piece Shell Pack is a high-volume acoustic drum kit designed for loud rock performances. It features transparent acrylic shells that offer high resonance and a distinctive aesthetic, providing a powerful punch suited for live stage use.

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Overview and Design

The Natal Arcadia Acrylic Shell Pack is a modern drum kit designed to provide high volume and visual impact. The set is configured as a three-piece shell pack, consisting of a 22-inch kick drum, a rack tom, and a floor tom. The primary design feature is the use of transparent acrylic for the shells, which provides a unique look and specific tonal characteristics distinct from traditional wooden drums.

The kit is equipped with triple-flanged hoops, which are designed to be more forgiving on drumsticks compared to die-cast hoops, potentially extending the life of the sticks during heavy playing. As a shell pack, this product includes the drums only; the snare drum, hardware stands, and cymbals are sold separately.

Sonic Characteristics

Acrylic drums are known for their loud, punchy, and aggressive sound, and the Arcadia series is specifically engineered for these traits. The shells produce a high degree of resonance and a sharp attack that excels in rock and high-decibel environments. Because acrylic is denser and less porous than wood, it provides a very direct sound with significant projection, ensuring the drums can be heard clearly in a loud mix.

Target Audience

This shell pack is primarily intended for rock drummers who require a 'powered' performance. Its aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for live performers who want to stand out under stage lighting. Due to the loud and resonant nature of the acrylic, it is well-suited for medium to large venues where volume and projection are essential. It serves as an accessible entry point for drummers looking to move into acrylic kits, which were historically more expensive boutique items.

Market Comparisons

When compared to other kits in the market, the Arcadia Acrylic sits alongside several wood-based alternatives. Competitors include the Ludwig Neusonic series, which offers a hybrid maple/cherry shell for a different tonal profile, and the Tama Superstar Classic, which uses maple for a more traditional warmth.

Within the Natal range, this 3-piece configuration is a more streamlined version of the Natal Arcadia Acrylic 4-piece pack. For those seeking different sizes or materials, the DW Performance Series or the Sonor AQ2 series offer alternative shell compositions and configurations, though often at different price points or with different hardware inclusions.

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Frequently asked questions

What drums are included in the Natal Arcadia Acrylic 3-piece shell pack?
The shell pack includes a 22-inch kick drum, a rack tom, and a floor tom. Note that the snare drum is not included in this specific 3-piece configuration.
Is hardware included with this drum kit?
No, this is a shell pack only. Hardware stands, such as cymbal stands, hi-hat stands, and kick pedals, must be purchased separately.
Does the kit come with a snare drum?
The Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22" 3-piece shell pack does not include a snare drum. Drummers will need to provide their own snare to complete the setup.
What is the benefit of acrylic shells compared to wood?
Acrylic shells offer a louder, punchier sound with higher resonance than most wood shells. They are also visually transparent, which provides a unique aesthetic for stage performances.
Are cymbals included in the purchase price?
Cymbals are sold separately and are not part of the Natal Arcadia Acrylic shell pack. This allows drummers to choose their own preferred cymbal brand and series.
What type of hoops does the Natal Arcadia Acrylic use?
The kit features triple-flanged hoops. These are designed to provide a balanced resonance and are generally less abrasive on drumsticks during rimshots than die-cast hoops.
For which music genres is this kit best suited?
This kit is specifically designed for rock and other loud musical styles. Its high volume and powerful punch make it ideal for genres where the drums need to cut through a dense mix.
What is the typical price for this shell pack in the UK?
The typical price range for the Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22" 3-piece shell pack is approximately £760. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
How does the sound of this kit differ from a Tama Superstar Classic?
The Tama Superstar Classic uses maple shells which provide a warmer, more traditional tone. The Natal Arcadia Acrylic is significantly louder and punchier with more projection.
Can I get this kit in different colors?
This specific model is the 'Transparent' version, meaning the shells are clear. Natal may offer other variants, but this article focuses on the transparent acrylic finish.
Is the bass drum size suitable for all styles?
The 22-inch kick drum is a standard size for rock and pop. It provides the depth and power required for energetic performances but may be larger than what is typically used for jazz.
What is the difference between this and the 4-piece version?
The 3-piece shell pack includes one less drum than the 4-piece version, typically omitting an additional tom. This results in a more compact and streamlined setup.