What is the shell composition of the Natal Originals Walnut?

The kit features 7-ply shells constructed from American walnut, known for its tight wood grain and rich tonal qualities.

What type of bearing edges does this kit use?

It uses 45-degree bearing edges with slight back cuts designed to improve attack, sustain, and overall impact.

Is hardware included with the 3pc shell pack?

No, this is a shell pack only. Stands, pedals, and other hardware must be purchased separately.

What is the significance of the 18-inch configuration?

The 18-inch bass drum makes the kit a 'jazz-sized' configuration, offering a more compact footprint and a specific tonal response suitable for diverse genres.

How does walnut sound compared to other drum woods?

Walnut generally produces a lower, richer tone with more warmth than maple or birch, while maintaining a strong punch.

What finish is applied to this specific model?

This specific shell pack features a striking Sunburst finish that highlights the natural beauty of the walnut wood.

Who is the intended user for the Natal Originals Walnut?

It is designed for the diverse and versatile professional drummer who needs a high-performance kit for various musical settings.

What is the typical price for this shell pack?

The typical price range for the Natal Originals Walnut 18 3pc Shell Pack is approximately £1,461.

How many plies are in the shells?

The shells are constructed using a 7-ply walnut layup, providing durability and a specific resonance profile.

Does the kit provide a lot of sustain?

Yes, the 45-degree bearing edges with back cuts are specifically designed to improve both attack and sustain.

What makes this kit a 'flagship' model for Natal?

It represents Natal's highest tier of shell construction, building on decades of the brand's legacy in percussion manufacturing.

How does the size compare to the Natal Arcadia Acrylic?

The Originals Walnut 18 is a compact jazz-sized kit, whereas the Arcadia Acrylic mentioned in the related products is a larger 22-inch 4-piece configuration.

Gear article

Natal Originals Walnut 18 3pc Shell Pack

The Natal Originals Walnut 18 3pc Shell Pack is a professional-grade acoustic drum kit featuring 7-ply American walnut shells. As the flagship series for the Natal brand, it is designed for versatile performance with a focus on rich, low tones and high-impact attack.

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Overview

The Natal Originals Walnut 18 3pc Shell Pack serves as the flagship offering in Natal's acoustic drum range. Drawing on a legacy of percussion manufacturing that spans several decades, this kit is specifically designed for professional players requiring a high-fidelity instrument for both studio and stage environments. The configuration is typically jazz-sized, centred around an 18-inch bass drum, making it compact yet powerful.

Shell Construction and Design

The core of the Originals Walnut kit is its 7-ply American walnut shells. Walnut is selected for its tight wood grain, which contributes to a distinct tonal profile compared to traditional maple or birch. The shells are finished with 45-degree bearing edges that incorporate slight back cuts. This specific geometry is engineered to increase the surface contact between the drumhead and the shell, resulting in improved attack and longer sustain.

Sound Character

Sonically, the Originals Walnut produces a low, rich tone that is characteristic of the wood species. The natural density of walnut provides a deep fundamental pitch, while the shell construction ensures plenty of punch and impact. This combination allows the kit to cut through a mix without sacrificing the warmth and resonance expected of a high-end walnut instrument.

Applications and Target Audience

Due to its compact 18-inch configuration and sophisticated Sunburst finish, this shell pack is well-suited for diverse professional drummers. While the sizing is ideal for jazz and fusion contexts where space and nuance are paramount, the inherent punch of the walnut shells makes it capable of handling higher-volume genres. It is positioned as a versatile tool for the working professional who requires a premium aesthetic and sound.

Market Comparisons

At a price point of approximately £1,461, the Natal Originals Walnut competes with other professional shell packs. It offers a more specialised wood choice than the Ludwig Neusonic series or the Tama Superstar Classic, which often utilise maple/cherry or maple hybrids. In terms of size, it is more portable than 22-inch configurations like the DW Performance Series, though it shares the professional-grade focus found in the Sonor AQ2 series.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell composition of the Natal Originals Walnut?: The kit features 7-ply shells constructed from American walnut, known for its tight wood grain and rich tonal qualities.
What type of bearing edges does this kit use?: It uses 45-degree bearing edges with slight back cuts designed to improve attack, sustain, and overall impact.
Is hardware included with the 3pc shell pack?: No, this is a shell pack only. Stands, pedals, and other hardware must be purchased separately.
What is the significance of the 18-inch configuration?: The 18-inch bass drum makes the kit a 'jazz-sized' configuration, offering a more compact footprint and a specific tonal response suitable for diverse genres.
How does walnut sound compared to other drum woods?: Walnut generally produces a lower, richer tone with more warmth than maple or birch, while maintaining a strong punch.
What finish is applied to this specific model?: This specific shell pack features a striking Sunburst finish that highlights the natural beauty of the walnut wood.
Who is the intended user for the Natal Originals Walnut?: It is designed for the diverse and versatile professional drummer who needs a high-performance kit for various musical settings.
What is the typical price for this shell pack?: The typical price range for the Natal Originals Walnut 18 3pc Shell Pack is approximately £1,461.
How many plies are in the shells?: The shells are constructed using a 7-ply walnut layup, providing durability and a specific resonance profile.
Does the kit provide a lot of sustain?: Yes, the 45-degree bearing edges with back cuts are specifically designed to improve both attack and sustain.
What makes this kit a 'flagship' model for Natal?: It represents Natal's highest tier of shell construction, building on decades of the brand's legacy in percussion manufacturing.
How does the size compare to the Natal Arcadia Acrylic?: The Originals Walnut 18 is a compact jazz-sized kit, whereas the Arcadia Acrylic mentioned in the related products is a larger 22-inch 4-piece configuration.