What drums are included in the Sonor AQX 18 Jazz Shell Pack?

The kit features a four-piece configuration, which typically includes a bass drum, two toms, and a snare drum. The bass drum is specifically 18 inches in diameter to suit the jazz configuration.

What is the shell material used in the AQX series?

The shells are constructed from 9-ply poplar. This material is chosen for its balanced frequency range and versatile tonal characteristics.

Does the kit include cymbals or stands?

No, the AQX 18 Jazz is a shell pack. It does not include cymbals, hi-hat stands, snare stands, or bass drum pedals, though it does include a tom holder.

What is the CTH 4000?

The CTH 4000 is a combination cymbal and tom holder included with the shell pack. It allows a tom and a cymbal to be mounted directly on the bass drum for convenience and space-saving.

Is this kit suitable for genres other than jazz?

Yes, while configured for jazz, the 9-ply poplar shells deliver a balanced range that can tackle various styles including funk, pop, and blues. Its portability also makes it useful for any traveling drummer.

What is the finish of this specific model?

This specific model features a Black Midnight Sparkle finish. It is a dark, textured aesthetic that provides a professional look under stage lighting.

How does the bass drum size affect the sound?

The 18-inch bass drum produces a higher fundamental pitch and a quicker decay than standard 22-inch drums. This provides the 'bop' sound characteristic of jazz music.

How many plies are in the drum shells?

Every drum shell in the Sonor AQX Jazz configuration consists of 9 plies of poplar. This thickness contributes to the drum's durability and resonant properties.

Is the AQX 18 Jazz appropriate for professional use?

Yes, the manufacturer describes it as ideal for professional drummers on the go. Its build quality and compact dimensions are tailored for frequent gigging.

How does it compare to the Sonor AQ2 series?

The AQX uses poplar shells, whereas the AQ2 series typically utilizes maple shells. The AQX is often positioned as a more accessible professional-style kit for those prioritizing portability.

Is a snare drum included in this shell pack?

Yes, the AQX Jazz is a 4-piece configuration, which includes a matching snare drum alongside the bass drum and two toms. Only hardware and cymbals are excluded.

What is the typical price for the AQX 18 Jazz?

The typical retail price for this shell pack in the UK is approximately £563. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current promotions.

Gear article

Sonor AQX 18 Jazz Shell Pack Black Midnight Sparkle

The Sonor AQX 18 Jazz Shell Pack is a compact four-piece acoustic drum kit featuring 9-ply poplar shells designed for versatility and portability. Priced at approximately £563, this kit is specifically configured with an 18-inch bass drum to suit the needs of professional drummers requiring a smaller footprint for gigging and jazz applications.

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Overview

The Sonor AQX series represents the brand's commitment to providing high-quality drum construction in a portable format. The Jazz Shell Pack is distinguished by its scaled-down dimensions compared to standard rock or fusion kits. The Black Midnight Sparkle finish provides a classic aesthetic suitable for both stage performances and studio environments. As a shell pack, the kit focuses on the core drums and a specialized tom holder, rather than a full hardware suite.

Shell Construction and Mechanics

The primary structural element of the AQX 18 Jazz kit is the 9-ply poplar shell. Poplar is selected for its ability to produce a balanced frequency response, ensuring that the drums provide sufficient low-end warmth while maintaining crisp highs. A notable mechanical inclusion is the CTH 4000 cymbal tom holder, which allows for the mounting of a tom and a cymbal directly from the bass drum, reducing the need for additional stands and streamlining the kit's overall footprint.

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Sound Profile and Versatility

The sonic character of the AQX Jazz pack is defined by its balance and punch. The 18-inch bass drum offers a tighter, more controlled response than larger 20 or 22-inch alternatives, making it highly effective for jazz, funk, and acoustic genres where nuance is required. Despite its 'Jazz' designation, the 9-ply construction allows the shells to project enough volume and tonal range to handle various musical styles effectively.

Target Audience

This kit is designed primarily for two types of players: the professional drummer on the go and the dedicated jazz musician. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for session players who frequently transport gear to different venues. Additionally, the configuration is ideal for smaller rehearsal spaces or home studios where floor space is limited, without sacrificing the build quality associated with the Sonor brand.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to other small-format kits, the AQX 18 Jazz sits alongside the Sonor AQ2 Safari, though the latter often features different shell materials. It offers a more compact footprint than the Ludwig Neusonic 20" Downbeat or the 22" configurations from the DW Performance Series and Tama Superstar Classic. While entry-level kits like the Yamaha Rydeen often include full hardware packages, the AQX focuses on higher-tier shell construction and specialized mounting solutions like the CTH 4000.

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Frequently asked questions

What drums are included in the Sonor AQX 18 Jazz Shell Pack?: The kit features a four-piece configuration, which typically includes a bass drum, two toms, and a snare drum. The bass drum is specifically 18 inches in diameter to suit the jazz configuration.
What is the shell material used in the AQX series?: The shells are constructed from 9-ply poplar. This material is chosen for its balanced frequency range and versatile tonal characteristics.
Does the kit include cymbals or stands?: No, the AQX 18 Jazz is a shell pack. It does not include cymbals, hi-hat stands, snare stands, or bass drum pedals, though it does include a tom holder.
What is the CTH 4000?: The CTH 4000 is a combination cymbal and tom holder included with the shell pack. It allows a tom and a cymbal to be mounted directly on the bass drum for convenience and space-saving.
Is this kit suitable for genres other than jazz?: Yes, while configured for jazz, the 9-ply poplar shells deliver a balanced range that can tackle various styles including funk, pop, and blues. Its portability also makes it useful for any traveling drummer.
What is the finish of this specific model?: This specific model features a Black Midnight Sparkle finish. It is a dark, textured aesthetic that provides a professional look under stage lighting.
How does the bass drum size affect the sound?: The 18-inch bass drum produces a higher fundamental pitch and a quicker decay than standard 22-inch drums. This provides the 'bop' sound characteristic of jazz music.
How many plies are in the drum shells?: Every drum shell in the Sonor AQX Jazz configuration consists of 9 plies of poplar. This thickness contributes to the drum's durability and resonant properties.
Is the AQX 18 Jazz appropriate for professional use?: Yes, the manufacturer describes it as ideal for professional drummers on the go. Its build quality and compact dimensions are tailored for frequent gigging.
How does it compare to the Sonor AQ2 series?: The AQX uses poplar shells, whereas the AQ2 series typically utilizes maple shells. The AQX is often positioned as a more accessible professional-style kit for those prioritizing portability.
Is a snare drum included in this shell pack?: Yes, the AQX Jazz is a 4-piece configuration, which includes a matching snare drum alongside the bass drum and two toms. Only hardware and cymbals are excluded.
What is the typical price for the AQX 18 Jazz?: The typical retail price for this shell pack in the UK is approximately £563. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current promotions.