What is the shell material of the Clay Aeschliman Artist Model?

The drum features a 6.0mm shell constructed from 9 plies of Bubinga wood, known for its density and resonance.

What are the specific dimensions of this snare drum?

The drum has a diameter of 12 inches and a depth of 7 inches, providing a balance of high pitch and deep body.

Which drummer is this signature model designed for?

This snare is the artist model for Clay Aeschliman, known for his work with the band Polyphia.

What type of hoops are fitted to the Tama Mod Bubinga?

The drum is equipped with Tama's Sound Arc Hoops, which are designed to enhance resonance and provide a clear rimshot sound.

What musical genres is this drum best suited for?

It is specifically designed for genres that require a sharp, articulate attack, such as Hip-Hop, Trap, and Electronic music.

What drum head comes standard on this model?

The snare comes fitted with an Evans Genera HD Dry batter head to provide a controlled and focused sound.

What is the finish of the Clay Aeschliman snare?

The drum features a custom finish called Galactic Purple.

How does the 12-inch diameter affect the sound?

The smaller 12-inch diameter results in a higher fundamental pitch and a quicker response compared to standard 14-inch drums.

Does the 7-inch depth make the drum sound thin?

No, the 7-inch depth is intended to expand the tonal range, providing more body and resonance than a shallower 12-inch snare.

Is this drum part of a specific Tama series?

Yes, it is part of the Tama S.L.P. (Sound Lab Project) series, which focuses on unique shell and hardware combinations.

What is the typical price range for this model in the UK?

The typical price for this snare drum is approximately £313.

Can this snare be used as a primary drum?

While its 12-inch size is often used for side snares, its 7-inch depth and Bubinga construction provide enough body for it to serve as a primary snare in many modern genres.

Gear article

Tama S.L.P. Mod Bubinga 12" x 7" Clay Aeschliman Artist Model

The Tama S.L.P. Mod Bubinga 12" x 7" Clay Aeschliman Artist Model is a signature snare drum designed for modern genres like Hip-Hop, Trap, and Electronic music. It features a 9-ply, 6.0mm Bubinga shell and a striking Galactic Purple finish, engineered to deliver a deep, resonant tone with a sharp, cutting attack.

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Overview and Design

The Tama S.L.P. (Sound Lab Project) Mod Bubinga Clay Aeschliman Artist Model is a specialised snare drum that bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary electronic aesthetics. Its most distinctive feature is the 12-inch diameter combined with a substantial 7-inch depth, a configuration that allows for high-pitched, snappy response without sacrificing the body and volume required for modern stage environments. The drum is finished in a custom Galactic Purple, reflecting the visual identity of Polyphia drummer Clay Aeschliman.

Shell Construction and Hardware

The core of the drum is a 6.0mm, 9-ply Bubinga shell. Bubinga is known in drum manufacturing for its high density and rich low-end frequencies, which balances the smaller 12-inch diameter of this model.

Hardware specifications include: * Sound Arc Hoops: Designed to provide open resonance and clear stick definition while protecting the sticks during rimshots. * Evans Genera HD Dry Batter Head: This head choice features small vents around the perimeter to reduce overtones, resulting in a more focused and 'dry' sound profile. * 7-inch Depth: The increased depth compensates for the smaller diameter by expanding the tonal range and increasing air displacement.

Sonic Character

This snare is characterised by a 'sharp attack' that allows it to cut through dense mixes, particularly in genres like Trap and Electronic music where the snare must compete with synthesised elements. The use of Bubinga ensures that despite the high-pitched 'pop' associated with 12-inch snares, there remains a deep, resonant foundation. The factory-fitted Evans HD Dry head further controls the resonance, making it an ideal choice for drummers who prefer a 'pre-processed' studio sound in a live setting.

Market Position and Comparison

Retailing at approximately £313, the Clay Aeschliman Artist Model sits within the mid-to-high range of the S.L.P. series. When compared to traditional 14-inch maple snares like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the Sonor AQ2, the Tama Mod Bubinga offers a much more focused and high-frequency dominant sound. While alternatives such as the Natal Originals Walnut offer different tonal textures, the Tama stands out for its specific application in modern percussive styles where speed and clarity are paramount.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of the Clay Aeschliman Artist Model?: The drum features a 6.0mm shell constructed from 9 plies of Bubinga wood, known for its density and resonance.
What are the specific dimensions of this snare drum?: The drum has a diameter of 12 inches and a depth of 7 inches, providing a balance of high pitch and deep body.
Which drummer is this signature model designed for?: This snare is the artist model for Clay Aeschliman, known for his work with the band Polyphia.
What type of hoops are fitted to the Tama Mod Bubinga?: The drum is equipped with Tama's Sound Arc Hoops, which are designed to enhance resonance and provide a clear rimshot sound.
What musical genres is this drum best suited for?: It is specifically designed for genres that require a sharp, articulate attack, such as Hip-Hop, Trap, and Electronic music.
What drum head comes standard on this model?: The snare comes fitted with an Evans Genera HD Dry batter head to provide a controlled and focused sound.
What is the finish of the Clay Aeschliman snare?: The drum features a custom finish called Galactic Purple.
How does the 12-inch diameter affect the sound?: The smaller 12-inch diameter results in a higher fundamental pitch and a quicker response compared to standard 14-inch drums.
Does the 7-inch depth make the drum sound thin?: No, the 7-inch depth is intended to expand the tonal range, providing more body and resonance than a shallower 12-inch snare.
Is this drum part of a specific Tama series?: Yes, it is part of the Tama S.L.P. (Sound Lab Project) series, which focuses on unique shell and hardware combinations.
What is the typical price range for this model in the UK?: The typical price for this snare drum is approximately £313.
Can this snare be used as a primary drum?: While its 12-inch size is often used for side snares, its 7-inch depth and Bubinga construction provide enough body for it to serve as a primary snare in many modern genres.