To complement the classic warm clarity of its maple shells, Tama's Starclassic Maple series now offers extraordinarily beautiful exotic wood finishes, in addition to their regular lacquer choices. For optimum transfer of vibrations from head to shell, a thinner shell is better. However, less thickness often equals less strength. Instead of simply making thinner shells by using fewer plies, Tama slimmed down each ply and then cross laminates them into a 6-ply, 5mm thick shell (8-ply, 7mm bass drum).

The Star-Cast Mounting System has always provided maximum resonance and stability for Tama's drums. A streamlined design makes it easier to position toms closer together, while a switch to aluminum provides lighter weight and truer tonal vibration. Hoops affect drum tuning and drum sound, which is why Tama uses zinc die-cast hoops, which are manufactured by injecting molten metal into molds. The rest of the drums are fitted with die-cast hoops for consistent tuning, crisper attack and powerful rim shots.

Starclassic Maple's claw hooks feature rubber spacers that help protect wood hoops from damage. The hooks and hoops work as one unit and won't separate or rattle, even on loose tunings. Tama's MSB30 die-cast bracket holds the spur bracket securely, thanks to the same powerful hinge mechanism used on the MTB30 mounting bracket.Unique memory markers found on the folding spur bracket help simplify set up. Starclassic's Air Pocket rubber feet feature a special air chamber, that eliminates the transfer of vibrations to the floor (which chokes sustain and sound) and absorbs shock for better playing.

The Hold Tight washer is a cup-shaped stainless steel washer that contains a rubber ring so the tension rod pushes both the cup washer and the rubber ring. Normally, vibrations will eventually loosen the tension rod. But the softness of Hold Tight's rubber ring keeps it in contact with both the tension rod and the hoop at all times and maintains friction between them so that tension is always preserved.

Evans heads are featured on all Starclassic drums (except bass drum front heads). On the rack and floor toms, Genera G2 2-ply clear batter heads and Genera G1 1-ply clear bottom heads provide both durability and solid sound. Starclassic bass drums are fitted with Genera EQ4 clear batter heads.

Cymbals, hardware and snare sold separately.