What material is used for the Sonor AQ2 shells?

The shells are constructed from 100 percent maple, which is chosen for its balanced tonal qualities and warmth.

What is the size of the bass drum in this specific kit?

This kit features a 20-inch bass drum, which offers a controlled power suitable for various musical genres.

Does this kit include a drum throne?

Yes, this specific package includes both a full hardware set and a drum throne, making it a complete setup.

What is the purpose of the Smart Mount system?

The Smart Mount is a suspension system designed to let the toms resonate freely, resulting in more sustain and an open tone.

How does TuneSafe technology benefit the drummer?

TuneSafe lugs prevent the tension rods from loosening during play, which helps the drums stay in tune for longer periods.

What finish is applied to this drum kit?

This specific model features a Brown Fade finish, providing a professional and aesthetic look for live performances.

Is this kit suitable for professional gigging?

Yes, the manufacturer describes it as being suited for gigging drummers, rehearsal rooms, and reliable home practice.

How many pieces are included in this shell configuration?

This is a 5-piece kit, typically consisting of a bass drum, snare drum, and three toms.

What is the tonal character of the AQ2 maple shells?

The sound is described as warm and balanced, featuring a solid low-end punch with clear mids and highs.

How does the AQ2 compare to the Sonor Safari kit?

The AQ2 20 5pc is a larger, more traditional setup compared to the compact 4-piece AQ2 Safari, which uses smaller shell diameters.

What is the typical price for this complete kit?

The typical price for this 5-piece kit with hardware and throne is approximately £1,495.

Is the hardware included in the price high-quality?

The kit includes Sonor-designed hardware intended for reliability during gigging and regular practice sessions.

Gear article

Sonor AQ2 20 5pc Drum Kit with Hardware (Brown Fade)

The Sonor AQ2 20 5pc Drum Kit is a professional-grade acoustic drum set constructed from 100 percent maple shells. Designed for gigging drummers and rehearsal environments, it features the proprietary Smart Mount suspension system and a comprehensive hardware package in a Brown Fade finish.

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Overview

The Sonor AQ2 20 5pc Drum Kit is a versatile mid-to-high-tier acoustic drum set positioned for active performers and dedicated students. This specific configuration includes a 20-inch bass drum, providing a balance between the portability required for gigging and the sonic presence needed for studio work. The kit is distinguished by its 7-ply maple construction and the inclusion of a full hardware pack and drum throne, offering a complete solution for players needing a reliable setup.

Construction and Key Features

The primary technical feature of the AQ2 series is the use of 100 percent maple for all shells. Maple is favoured in drum manufacturing for its specific resonance and frequency response.

Key structural innovations include: * Smart Mount Suspension System: A minimalist mounting system designed to avoid excessive contact with the shell, allowing the toms to vibrate freely for increased sustain. * TuneSafe Lugs: Internal mechanisms within the lugs that prevent tension rods from vibrating loose, ensuring the kit maintains its pitch during aggressive playing or long sessions. * All-in-one Hardware: Unlike shell-only packs, this version includes the necessary stands and a throne, ensuring compatibility and immediate playability.

Sound Character

The AQ2 maple shells deliver a warm, balanced sound profile. The material naturally provides a solid low-end punch, which is complemented by clear definition in the midrange and high-frequency registers. Because of this balanced output, the kit is noted for its ability to sit comfortably in a musical mix, making it suitable for both live sound reinforcement and band rehearsals where clarity is essential.

Market Comparison

Within the Sonor ecosystem, the AQ2 20 5pc sits above the compact AQ2 Safari and acts as a more substantial alternative to the AQ2 20 5pc Shell Pack by including essential hardware.

When compared to external alternatives like the Ludwig Neusonic or the DW Performance Series, the AQ2 stands out for its specific inclusion of a throne and complete hardware at the £1,495 price point. While the Ludwig Neusonic 22" Rapid MOD2 offers a different shell technology (Maple/Cherry hybrid), the Sonor focuses on the traditional purity of a 100% maple build. It also provides a more robust mounting system compared to entry-level alternatives like the Yamaha Rydeen.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is used for the Sonor AQ2 shells?: The shells are constructed from 100 percent maple, which is chosen for its balanced tonal qualities and warmth.
What is the size of the bass drum in this specific kit?: This kit features a 20-inch bass drum, which offers a controlled power suitable for various musical genres.
Does this kit include a drum throne?: Yes, this specific package includes both a full hardware set and a drum throne, making it a complete setup.
What is the purpose of the Smart Mount system?: The Smart Mount is a suspension system designed to let the toms resonate freely, resulting in more sustain and an open tone.
How does TuneSafe technology benefit the drummer?: TuneSafe lugs prevent the tension rods from loosening during play, which helps the drums stay in tune for longer periods.
What finish is applied to this drum kit?: This specific model features a Brown Fade finish, providing a professional and aesthetic look for live performances.
Is this kit suitable for professional gigging?: Yes, the manufacturer describes it as being suited for gigging drummers, rehearsal rooms, and reliable home practice.
How many pieces are included in this shell configuration?: This is a 5-piece kit, typically consisting of a bass drum, snare drum, and three toms.
What is the tonal character of the AQ2 maple shells?: The sound is described as warm and balanced, featuring a solid low-end punch with clear mids and highs.
How does the AQ2 compare to the Sonor Safari kit?: The AQ2 20 5pc is a larger, more traditional setup compared to the compact 4-piece AQ2 Safari, which uses smaller shell diameters.
What is the typical price for this complete kit?: The typical price for this 5-piece kit with hardware and throne is approximately £1,495.
Is the hardware included in the price high-quality?: The kit includes Sonor-designed hardware intended for reliability during gigging and regular practice sessions.