What is included in the Tama Superstar Classic 3pc Shell Pack?

This kit consists of three drum shells: the bass drum and two toms. Being a 'shell pack,' it does not include a snare drum, cymbals, or the various hardware stands required for a full setup.

What type of wood is used in these shells?

The shells are crafted from carefully selected maple. This wood choice is known for producing a rich, warm tone with particularly clear mid and high frequencies.

What is the benefit of the Tama Star-Mount system?

The Star-Mount system supports the drum at four points to minimize contact with the shell. This allows the wood to vibrate more freely, resulting in better projection and a tone that isn't muffled.

How does the sound of maple compare to other woods?

Maple typically offers a warmer and more 'all-around' sound compared to birch or acrylic. In the Superstar Classic, it is specifically tuned to provide brilliant highs and a resonant ring.

What finish is used on this specific model?

This specific model features a Transparent Black Burst finish. It is a premium aesthetic that allows the wood grain to show through a darkened gradient.

Is a snare drum included with this kit?

No, this is a 3-piece shell pack. Drummers will need to provide their own snare drum to complete the standard kit configuration.

How does the bearing edge impact the sound?

The bearing edge shape is designed to increase sustain and projection. By optimizing how the drum head contacts the shell, Tama ensures a powerful, ringing tone.

What is the typical price for this shell pack?

In the UK market, this specific 3-piece shell pack typically retails for approximately £739. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.

What size is the bass drum in this pack?

The kit features a 22-inch bass drum. This is a standard size that provides a versatile balance of punch and low-end depth for most musical genres.

How does this compare to the Natal Arcadia Acrylic kit?

The Tama Superstar Classic uses maple shells for warmth and resonance, whereas the Natal Arcadia Acrylic uses synthetic shells for a louder, more aggressive 'crack'. The Tama is generally preferred for tonal versatility.

Is hardware included with the Superstar Classic?

Hardware such as cymbal stands, kick pedals, and hi-hat stands are not included. The pack focuses exclusively on the drum shells and their integrated mounting hardware.

Why is the Superstar series historically significant?

The original Superstar series was influential for its high build quality and crisp tone. This modern version pays homage to that legacy while using updated shell moulding techniques.

Gear article

Tama Superstar Classic 22 3pc Shell Pack

The Tama Superstar Classic 22 3pc Shell Pack is a professional-grade acoustic drum kit constructed from carefully selected maple shells. Drawing design inspiration from the historically significant Superstar series, this configuration is engineered for ringing sustain, warm tonal character, and high-frequency clarity.

See live prices

Background and Heritage

The Superstar Classic series represents a modern evolution of Tama's most influential drum line. Originally known for ground-breaking design and superior build quality, the Superstar name established a reputation for crisp tones and clear projection. This contemporary iteration maintains that heritage while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques to enhance resonance and structural integrity.

Shell Construction and Sound Quality

The core of the Superstar Classic is its maple shell construction. Tama focuses intently on the shell moulding process to ensure tonal consistency across the kit. Maple is chosen for its rich, warm tonal character, specifically providing brilliant mid and high frequencies. The bearing edges are shaped to facilitate maximum sustain and powerful projection, ensuring the drums cut through in both live and studio environments.

Hardware and Mounting

To prevent the natural resonance of the wood from being stifled, Tama utilizes the Star-Mount system. This hardware solution attaches to the drum at four tension points, allowing the shell to vibrate more freely than traditional bracket mounts. This results in an optimum ring and projection, ensuring the tone is neither muffled nor muted when the drums are struck.

Target User and Suitability

With its 22-inch kick drum configuration, this shell pack is well-suited for drummers seeking a versatile foundation for rock, pop, and fusion. Its Transparent Black Burst finish provides a professional aesthetic suitable for stage performances. Because it is a shell pack, it is ideal for drummers who already own their preferred snare drum, cymbals, and hardware stands.

Market Comparison

Within the mid-to-high tier acoustic drum market, the Superstar Classic competes with various shell packs. While the Ludwig Neusonic and DW Performance Series offer different American-made tonal profiles, the Tama stands out for its specific maple-driven high-frequency brilliance. Compared to entry-level kits like the Yamaha Rydeen or Gretsch Energy, which often include hardware and cymbals, the Superstar Classic is a more focused, shell-specific offering aimed at tonal quality rather than all-in-one convenience.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Tama Superstar Classic 3pc Shell Pack?: This kit consists of three drum shells: the bass drum and two toms. Being a 'shell pack,' it does not include a snare drum, cymbals, or the various hardware stands required for a full setup.
What type of wood is used in these shells?: The shells are crafted from carefully selected maple. This wood choice is known for producing a rich, warm tone with particularly clear mid and high frequencies.
What is the benefit of the Tama Star-Mount system?: The Star-Mount system supports the drum at four points to minimize contact with the shell. This allows the wood to vibrate more freely, resulting in better projection and a tone that isn't muffled.
How does the sound of maple compare to other woods?: Maple typically offers a warmer and more 'all-around' sound compared to birch or acrylic. In the Superstar Classic, it is specifically tuned to provide brilliant highs and a resonant ring.
What finish is used on this specific model?: This specific model features a Transparent Black Burst finish. It is a premium aesthetic that allows the wood grain to show through a darkened gradient.
Is a snare drum included with this kit?: No, this is a 3-piece shell pack. Drummers will need to provide their own snare drum to complete the standard kit configuration.
How does the bearing edge impact the sound?: The bearing edge shape is designed to increase sustain and projection. By optimizing how the drum head contacts the shell, Tama ensures a powerful, ringing tone.
What is the typical price for this shell pack?: In the UK market, this specific 3-piece shell pack typically retails for approximately £739. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.
What size is the bass drum in this pack?: The kit features a 22-inch bass drum. This is a standard size that provides a versatile balance of punch and low-end depth for most musical genres.
How does this compare to the Natal Arcadia Acrylic kit?: The Tama Superstar Classic uses maple shells for warmth and resonance, whereas the Natal Arcadia Acrylic uses synthetic shells for a louder, more aggressive 'crack'. The Tama is generally preferred for tonal versatility.
Is hardware included with the Superstar Classic?: Hardware such as cymbal stands, kick pedals, and hi-hat stands are not included. The pack focuses exclusively on the drum shells and their integrated mounting hardware.
Why is the Superstar series historically significant?: The original Superstar series was influential for its high build quality and crisp tone. This modern version pays homage to that legacy while using updated shell moulding techniques.