What is included in the Sonor AQ2 Safari 4pc Shell Pack?

The pack includes a 16-inch bass drum, a 10x7-inch rack tom, a 13x12-inch floor tom, and a 13x6-inch snare drum. Please note that hardware stands and cymbals are typically sold separately.

What is the primary wood used in the Safari AQ2 shells?

The shells are constructed from maple. This material choice is known for providing a balanced frequency response with significant warmth and resonance.

What is the purpose of the Sonor SmartMount system?

The SmartMount is designed to hold the rack tom with minimal contact on the shell. This technology allows for better sustain and a more natural drum vibration compared to traditional mounting systems.

What do the TuneSafe lugs do?

TuneSafe lugs feature a mechanism that keeps the tension rods firmly in place. This prevents the drum from detuning during intense playing sessions or while being transported to gigs.

How large is the bass drum in this kit?

The bass drum is 16 inches in diameter. Despite its smaller size, it is designed to provide a punchy and effective low-end suitable for various musical genres.

Is the White Pearl finish a wrap or lacquer?

The White Pearl finish is a high-quality wrap. It provides a classic, 'vintage' aesthetic that is highly durable for travelling musicians.

What genres of music are best suited for the AQ2 Safari?

Due to its warm maple tones and compact size, it is particularly well-suited for jazz, funk, hip-hop, and acoustic sessions. It is also an excellent choice for any venue where stage space is limited.

Does this kit come with hardware like cymbal stands?

No, the AQ2 Safari is sold as a 'shell pack.' This means it includes the drums and tom mounting hardware, but cymbals, pedals, and stands must be purchased separately.

Can the 16-inch bass drum produce enough volume for a live gig?

Yes, when tuned correctly and potentially mic'd up, the 16-inch maple bass drum provides a punchy and focused sound that works well in most live environments.

How does the AQ2 Safari compare to the AQ2 Stage?

The Safari is a compact configuration with a 16-inch bass drum, whereas the Stage configuration typically features a much larger 22-inch bass drum for more volume and low-end presence.

Is this kit suitable for professional drummers?

Yes, while compact, the AQ2 series uses professional-grade maple shells and hardware. It is specifically marketed as a high-quality setup for gigging professionals.

What is the snare drum size in this kit?

The kit includes a 13x6-inch snare drum. This size provides a crisp, snappy response that complements the compact nature of the rest of the shell pack.

Gear article

Sonor AQ2 Safari 4pc Shell Pack

The Sonor AQ2 Safari is a compact 4-piece maple shell pack designed for gigging drummers who require a high-quality, portable setup. It features a punchy 16-inch bass drum and professional-grade appointments such as the SmartMount system and TuneSafe lugs.

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Overview

The Sonor AQ2 Safari is a specialist drum kit configuration designed to offer a professional sound in a small, versatile footprint. Constructed from high-quality maple, the kit is part of Sonor’s AQ2 series, which aims to provide drummers with reliable performance tools for both casual practice and professional gigging. The White Pearl finish provides a classic aesthetic that suits diverse stage environments.

Key Features and Hardware

The AQ2 Safari incorporates several of Sonor's signature engineering solutions. The SmartMount system is a minimalist tom mounting hardware design that avoids drilling directly into the shell, allowing for maximum resonance and sustain. To ensure consistency during play, the kit uses TuneSafe lugs, which prevent tension rods from loosening under heavy vibrations or during transit. The shell pack includes:

16" x 15" Bass Drum
13" x 6" Snare Drum
10" x 7" Rack Tom
13" x 12" Floor Tom

Sound Character

The use of maple shells defines the tonal character of the Safari kit, delivering mellow, warm, and balanced frequencies. Despite its diminutive size, the 16-inch bass drum is engineered to be punchy and deep. The overall sound profile is versatile enough for jazz, funk, and acoustic pop settings, providing a clear and articulate response that cuts through a mix without overpowering other instruments.

Market Position and Comparison

Priced at approximately £859, the AQ2 Safari sits in the mid-range of the acoustic drum market. It competes with other compact or portability-focused kits, though its all-maple construction distinguishes it from entry-level birch or poplar alternatives. When compared to larger kits like the Ludwig Neusonic or Tama Superstar Classic, the Safari offers superior space-saving benefits while maintaining the professional build quality expected from Sonor.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Sonor AQ2 Safari 4pc Shell Pack?: The pack includes a 16-inch bass drum, a 10x7-inch rack tom, a 13x12-inch floor tom, and a 13x6-inch snare drum. Please note that hardware stands and cymbals are typically sold separately.
What is the primary wood used in the Safari AQ2 shells?: The shells are constructed from maple. This material choice is known for providing a balanced frequency response with significant warmth and resonance.
What is the purpose of the Sonor SmartMount system?: The SmartMount is designed to hold the rack tom with minimal contact on the shell. This technology allows for better sustain and a more natural drum vibration compared to traditional mounting systems.
What do the TuneSafe lugs do?: TuneSafe lugs feature a mechanism that keeps the tension rods firmly in place. This prevents the drum from detuning during intense playing sessions or while being transported to gigs.
How large is the bass drum in this kit?: The bass drum is 16 inches in diameter. Despite its smaller size, it is designed to provide a punchy and effective low-end suitable for various musical genres.
Is the White Pearl finish a wrap or lacquer?: The White Pearl finish is a high-quality wrap. It provides a classic, 'vintage' aesthetic that is highly durable for travelling musicians.
What genres of music are best suited for the AQ2 Safari?: Due to its warm maple tones and compact size, it is particularly well-suited for jazz, funk, hip-hop, and acoustic sessions. It is also an excellent choice for any venue where stage space is limited.
Does this kit come with hardware like cymbal stands?: No, the AQ2 Safari is sold as a 'shell pack.' This means it includes the drums and tom mounting hardware, but cymbals, pedals, and stands must be purchased separately.
Can the 16-inch bass drum produce enough volume for a live gig?: Yes, when tuned correctly and potentially mic'd up, the 16-inch maple bass drum provides a punchy and focused sound that works well in most live environments.
How does the AQ2 Safari compare to the AQ2 Stage?: The Safari is a compact configuration with a 16-inch bass drum, whereas the Stage configuration typically features a much larger 22-inch bass drum for more volume and low-end presence.
Is this kit suitable for professional drummers?: Yes, while compact, the AQ2 series uses professional-grade maple shells and hardware. It is specifically marketed as a high-quality setup for gigging professionals.
What is the snare drum size in this kit?: The kit includes a 13x6-inch snare drum. This size provides a crisp, snappy response that complements the compact nature of the rest of the shell pack.