Mapex Design Lab Black Panther Versatus System Shell Pack - Drummer's Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ต.ค. 2018
- Here's our EXCLUSIVE look at the new Mapex Design Lab Black Panther Versatus System shell pack. Filmed at Middle Farm Studios, October 2018. For full specs and more details, head over to our website: www.drummersreview.com, as well as connecting with us via our social media channels:
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Here are my thoughts:
1) The mount is so extra, and it functions well (the #1 most objectively-important thing in drum hardware). I understand people's concerns with it being "over-engineered", but gun to the head, I'd rather it be overbuilt and look like something out of Georgia Tech's Mechanical Engineering Department (as long as it lasted until the end of time) than it being underbuilt, and break quickly. I've played hardware (and some drums) that felt like toys, and as a 6'2", 200 lb klutz, it's not fun. That said, I think it could benefit from being polished to a mirror finish, so it blends into the stands a little bit better (unless Mapex has a legitimate reason as to why they can't polish them).
2) To those commenting: I know it's pricey, but keep in mind that Nolly said that it's still early to figure out what the street price will be, so it'll probably be lower than the £4,500 ($5,840 USD) that he mentioned. I have no inside information, and I might even be 2,456% wrong, but If my guess is somewhat correct, it should be able to compete with high-end kits from Tama, DW, Sonor, Ludwig, Noble and Cooley, and others, so long as you're comparing apples-to-apples (2-up/2-down vs. 2-up/2-down, both top-of-the-line) and not apples-to-oranges (2-up/2-down TotL vs. 1-up/1-down intermediate). Also, bear in mind that this kit is more than just a 2-up/2-down, it also comes with an aux. 18" drum, hardware to make said 18" drum go three ways, and the mounts for the toms, so the price doesn't * completely * surprise me, personally.
3) As a bit of a continuation of #2: these drums (while they're for anyone that genuinely loves the sound they give off) are aimed primarily at those seasoned vets who want nothing short of Company X's best. As such, they're not gonna be scooped up by the masses like say, a Saturn would be, but for those who seek out this sound, this is a nice option. I'm not gonna pick this kit up for myself, mainly because I'm picky about sizes, but that shouldn't negate its existence in the retail market.
4) My only fault that I see with this kit (as Nolly alluded to a bit) was that Mapex should have put those articulating floor tom legs on ALL of the brackets, instead of just one. It would've looked more uniform, and made a much bigger impact on the sustain on the floor toms. Everything else is kosher in my book.
5) I FREAKING LOVE THE BASS DRUM IDEA. I wonder if Mapex and Russ Miller took inspiration from older drum designs, because I remember seeing this guy on TH-cam pick up an old 1940s Slingerland kit (I think?) years ago, and it had triple rings inside of the bass drum, similar to this one.
Mapex just stepped up their game in a big way, very impressed with this set up
The most underrated drum company!
And they offer the most innovations in today's industry. The biggest prejudice: If it's from the east - China, Taiwan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia - it's crap. And it’s actually a fact that all the world’s major drum companies have shifted much of their production to the east because of cheaper labor. When you buy Ludwig or Gretsch or DW, unless it's their most expensive set, you can be sure it's from China. And it lacks nothing, in fact, it is just as well made as what comes from the USA. The only thing in your head is the feeling that you bought "real" American goods. And you’re not because on that Ludwig you bought it’s very possible that the foil is originally from Italy and the hardware is again from China. In order for producers to earn more.
They produce both cheap and expensive drums but even the cheapest ones sounds good (for the price). The sounds are very right toned and clear and they also make excellent finishes that other companies don't...
@Spectacular Spectacular indeed... They say pearl produce cheap and valuable products but I don't like pearl sounds.... Only tamas high end drums have such sounds
@@odysseasg3896 so wrong . You can get a Tama superstar classic and it sounds just as good as any”high end drums “ if you know how to tune and use pro drumheads .
Mapex is really about the sound. When they find it they really shine. Saturns are a great and unique sounding set. Orions were great maple sets and now this...the whole system blows me away. 6 pc with options of two different bass drums, all that innovation and that sound for 5 grand...I am sold.
The details on this kit are so interesting, and I haven't seen anything like this before! I really like the idea of that aux drum to take out to a small function gig too, what a great idea!
I think they will struggle at that price point but you can understand why it's so expensive. It did sound great to be fair!
How much is it going for?
3,500 to 5,000 depending on how many pieces you go for.
@@larrytate1657 That's still a only a third of the price of a comparable DW kit, so pricey? Maybe, but definitely much a better deal for the awesome drums you're getting.
I agree. I think this sounds better than most DW kits I’ve heard. It’s in the running for my next kit with a couple others.
Woah, this kit's really something.. Those magnetic tom mounts don't look bad at all, and the tones coming out of them all are really sweet to my ears, Nick does a great job of making these reviews pretty musical.. The kit's way out of my price range but it's still an excellent-sounding beast.. Awesome review!! 👍🤘
Just saw this kit yesterday and this new Magnetic Tom mount design is Amazing looks intense and is completely new to the Drum world. Very beautiful drums Amazing design and superb tonal quality!
Thank you for one of the most informative full review of my personal favourite drum companies.
Honestly they look and sound phenomenal. And I love the fact you have two kits within that bundle.
Was so eager for a review on this kit. I totally love the sound, particularly as stated, the clean tones which I thought have beautiful sustain. Good to know also that the mounting systems’ not complex to set up. Great review once again👏
I dig the mounts, might be the first innovation in drums since free floating shells.
Mapex did it again!! Awsome drums!!! Brilliant!👍💙❤🤘
Amazing new series of drums. Love everything about them. From the sound, to the new mounting system, to the floor-tom/bass-drum, to the finish. Very exciting new product from Mapex even though I'm a Tama guy.
Loved the sound of these!
Recently picked up one of these kits - absolutely incredible, arguably one of the best kits going!
At the recent UK drum show this was the kit that stopped us in our tracks when a guy was playing it because the sound was absolutely amazing.
We attended a workshop afterwards where Craig Blundell spoke about the two different kits and I thought up close that you don't really notice the tom mounts that much...What was noticeable though was the sound.
Great review and despite the controversy at the moment regarding the mounts etc it is undeniable that the drums sound amazing and full of tone.
Thanks a lot for this very detailed test. It´s absolutely impossible to get sufficient Infos about the MAATS-A Mounts only by reading test in magazines. You answered all the Questions I´ve had regarding the MAATS and the effect the new floortom legs might have to the tone of the drums. Please continue in this way. This makes Drummers live much easier!
Another great sounding set of drums there
I think the Tom mounts look great. The tone was the most unrestricted I have ever heard. The fact that you can tune the bottom heads while on the mount is incredible. As drummers always having to deal with sampled processed sounds, we need the best sounding drums we can get. I have been painted into a corner more than a few times with how the toms on a particular kit would only resonate at a certain pitch. Or in some sessions, not resonate at all. The tom mounts are amazing and I really love the way they look. Plus, you can adjust, on the mounts, how much sustain you want for different situations.
Agreed, always interesting reviews, keep up the good work!
The Equinox snare here, is my favourite in the new Black Panther range.
A bit like the Black Widow, from the previous range for the past then years.
The legs (although barely noticeable even on a proper sound system), the maats mounts, the rings inside the bass drum (NO MUFFLING NEEDED ANYMORE!), two kits in one, I have to say what a complete design!
Why I didn't know this channel? Is brilliant
I think Mapex is on the cutting edge here. Mark my words, all the other big players will be coming out with their version of these mounts soon.
What mad scientist came up with those tom mounts!
Great review. This kit sounds fabulous. Love the snare too, it has that „pure maple” sound. The tom mount system is quite bulky, but it seems to be effective.
Excellent review. Having been on the fence when I first saw a photo of the new mounts, after hearing the new shells with said mounts, I am won over! The sheer clean tones and resonance that can be produced is surely unprecedented! I currently have a Orion series and the newer Saturn V series kits, and while the projection and tone on these kits is incredible and perfect for me, I would definitely consider purchasing these in the future. I'll always be slightly biased with Mapex, as I have been playing their drums since 2007 with the awesome 'M series'. I always find the quality control with them to be outstanding. Very brave/bold move to leap into a 'new tech' in order to push forward what is possible with drum manufacturing, I hope it pays off, and opens up new world of drum sound for others to follow suit. Wouldn't say no to a smaller/design of the mounts in future though ;)
Even though the Tom mounts are an eye sore this system is very innovative! Absolutely gorgeous kit, Mapex has definitely picked there game up! Curious how long will it take for other companies to follow in there steps!! Congratulations to Mapex!! Definitely my favorite drum company
Lovely review!
That is a wonderful sounding drum set. Price is right to for what you get. I love my mid 90's Orions in power tom sizes. Though not popular sizes these days the drums sound incredible. Great review.
sounds pretty good, and he is a pretty awesome drummer.
Excellent review fellas. I'm a big fan of Mapex's willingness to experiment. I've already bought my 2 kits that I'll keep into my retirement years but if I hadn't ........who knows? I'm really curious to see how they do in this market segment. They sure sound great.
simply wonderful:)
We really need that video on tom tuning! ;)
Definitely a value demon for the sound, features, and versatility of this setup, especially compared to the heavy-hitters (Sonor, DW, etc.). Plus, as an engineer and drummer, the fact you can turn over the toms WHILE ON THE STAND might have sold me forever. 😮
Love this kit! Would also like the run down of the cymbals you’re using.
I don't understand why people want to bash inavations. This is actually a great design. People just hate change. I actually like it. I don't think it's the best hardware but its definitely good. In my personal opinion. TAMA and PEARL make some of the best hardware. Ludwig and yamah and gretch all are about equal. But I love how hardware is evolving. Yes sometimes it might be something that people dont love. But its necessary to put out different ideals so that we keep getting innovations. If every brand just stuck with what has always worked than we would never get change. I think its important to keep the classics around but also bring out fresh new innovations so that there is improvements being made.
Wow! The shells are beautiful. The only thing i own by Mapex is the Machete snare and I love it. That BC logo is just badass. I like that they are trying new things. The auxiliary drum is cool. I use a vintage 16 inch Gretsch floor tom on the left side with a Remo Pinstripe with the internal muffler just barely touching the head to get an extra deep thump. As long as Mapex would continue to support the new tom mounts I'd be cool with it. It's a lot of money to invest on the chance that if it doesn't sell and they discontinue them finding parts could become a hassle. My only gripe would be you need an extra tool to adjust the mounts it looked like an allen wrench. Not something i want to have to keep track of or worry about misplacing, but that's pretty minor.
estimated prices are:
£360 to £379.99 for the russ miller versatus hybrid snare
£4,995 for the Mapex Design Lab 22" 6 Piece Versatus System
£4,595 for the Mapex Design Lab 22" 5 Piece Versatus System
Your reviews are brilliant! Would love to see one on the Gretsch Catalina Maple. Im lookin at an intermediate level kit at the moment (Mapex Armory, PDP Concept, and Gretsch Catalina, and you have already reviewed the other two).
Keep up the work fellas!
Andreas H Natal Cafe Racer or Natal Originals Maple... AMAZING kits for their price
I bought it probably about a decade ago, but the Catalina Maple is a great kit for a great value.
One drawback is tension rods and lugs on particularly the bass drum as well as the hoop claws seem poor quality. A couple of the tension rods caved into the lugs randomly and since I needed to use the kit, I cranked some of the other rods (not unreasonably, just enough to get rid of wrinkles) and over time several of the claws snapped under pressure.
Still a great kit and I'd recommend it, though I don't know what sorts of competition it has today. If I were to buy a kit today I'd probably save a bit extra and get the Tama Performer B/B or the DW Performer or possibly the Yamaha Tour Custom. Those all seem like excellent deals on the market. Of course, those are still substantially more expensive and out of many people's budget. The Catalina Maple is a great kit with a very beautiful look and sound, but questionable build quality.
Yeah i am also considering holding out for a Staclassic or Gretsch Renown level kit so i guess time will tell! Cheers for the info though, much appreciated!
+Andreas H
Out of the kits you mentioned and are considering, I'd go with the Mapex Armory by far. I own the Armory 6-piece Studioease Fast shell pack in the older Transparent Walnut finish with the Tomahawk steel snare, and IMPO you won't find a better kit for the money, or even for considerably more.
I tried all of the kits you are considering and Mapex got my money. I added a 13x9 rack tom for versatility, and can also HIGHLY recommend that Equinox snare as well. I own many many snare drums and it's among my absolute favorite.
Just swap out the Heads on the Armory kit for your preferred favorites, as it comes with the Chinese made Remo UT single-ply coated heads. They're really not bad but the USA made equivalents will make a marked difference.
I ended up trying the Remo Diplomat Fiberskyn heads all around (including the Batter AND Reso Bass drum heads) and these drums absolutely sing and have a very wide tuning range for everything from Rock, to Funk, to Jazz gigs.
I think if you really took the time to look at the quality of construction of both the Catalina Maple and the PDP Concept Maple drums, you'll see that they are inferior to the Mapex Armory.
Both the Catalina Maple and the PDP Concept Maple drums can sound really good with the right heads & tuning, but the tuning range is really Limited & difficult in my experience...kind of "one note wonders".
I really like the combination of Birch and Maple in the Armory drums, and I think that their "SonicClear" bearing edges really do make a difference for the better in the sound and tuning range.
I also feel that the hardware on the Armory kit is far superior as well. Check out Nick & Nolly's thoughts on the Armory kit again in their recent review. They also gave them fairly high praise.
All I can say is I don't regret my purchase of the Armory kit one bit. I tested my friend's Catalina Maple kit extensively and was thoroughly underwhelmed with the sound & hardware. The Armory are fantastic drums.
If you're in the U.S., keep your eye out for discounts such as the regular 20% off promo codes that pop up at Cascio Interstate Music for a smokin' deal on this kit and the Equinox snare. ;)
go with the Mapex Armory kit... you won't be disappointed. I picked one up about a year ago and I love it. I have the 6 piece studio ease, I also added the 7x8 rack tom and i bought a 2nd 20x22 bass drum. it comes with a Mapex Armory tomahawk steel snare which you have the option to trade in for 4 additional snares. I went with the exterminator which is a walnut/birch snare which also sounds awesome. I don't really use that snare that much because I have a Mapex black panther wraith snare and I also use an older Mapex black panther Deep forest black walnut snare that sounds amazing. but all round its a great mid grade kit. you will need to change out the heads both top and bottom. The stock heads do the drums no justice. I love single ply heads they really let these drums sing.
If you do want to spend just a little more money than the Mapex armory, i suggest the Pearl session studio select kit. I also picked one of these up too. amazing full sound. its Mahogany and Birch. for $1500 this kit plays like a pro level kit. only down fall is that it doesn't come with a snare, but if your like me and have a ton of snares laying around you won't have to worry about that.
so, if you want to spend about $1000 get the Mapex armory but if your in the $1500 price range definitely the Pearl session studio select.
good luck.
The toms mount system o.O The deep of the sound mics capture O.o Excellent.
The sustain control on mounts actually work
I want one!😊
I dig the paint job on these toms. They didn’t over do the black fade. It’s ghosty. It does sound different. Nice kit. 😁
To my ears, this is the best sounding kit I've heard. Wish it didn't cost so much money though. Oh well, i'm fine with just my mapex black panther cherry bomb snare in the mean time
The mounts may not be wonderful to look at but they sure as hell work. That’s one of the best sounding kits I’ve EVER heard. Just beautiful
This is one of the best kits I've heard. To my ears sounds as good if not better than some of the $8000 DW & Tama kits.
i like the aux kick/tom a lot. nolly do you have another channel for the other instruments? for guitars or studio gear maybe?
Would love to see some Tama reviews on your channel :D (SLP snares & kits, and mid to high range kits are surely interesting products to review)
Great videos! Been waiting to see what these Mapex kits were about
Travis Woodall cool, the SLP line is great. I own the Poplar Maple SLP and just got the Birch Duo Snare. I haven’t heard the SLP Maple with wood hoops in person, but it also sounded great. I’m really looking at getting the SLP bronze snare for a metal yet controlled crack.
@@traviswoodall6547 I'm quite happy with it. I'm a beginner and I wanted a snare that's not too loud and suitable for soft playing and brushes. The promotion from Tama and the reviews were good and confirming that direction.
th-cam.com/video/DAFu6Kru_d0/w-d-xo.html
I like the tube lugs and mount system. I think the rings are a good idea too. The finish can be found on cheaper drums, they should have spent more time on that. At that price point, it has to look good too.
I WANTTTTTT
I like the MAATS sytem, however I think it's specific to just Mapex. It would be nice if Randall May offered those for other mfg. of drums so if we wanted that system, we could.
what's kind of weird is that Mapex doesn't have the AirLift system either. DW has that exclusive arrangement. I think if they incorporated both the AirLift and MAATS, that would be great.
Sounds good and the configuration is almost exactly what I'd get if money was not an issue. The fade could be a tad more prominent on the rack toms' finish, they look like cheaper production than they are. The larger drums look good, though.
At first, I thought the mounting system seemed quite gimmicky and started to wonder what's wrong with just dampening your drumheads or the choice of drumheads to control sustain, but on the other hand thicker heads and muffling tend to affect attack as well. So, maybe there could be something to it. Interesting concept anyway, even if I'm not entirely sold on how much the mounts would have an effect in any kind of band setting where such details usually get lost in the mix.
They sound great, and, definitely seem to be built with high quality. I own a Mapex Black Panther Velvetone kit, and have to say, they sound very similar. I've had many kits over the years, and my Velvetone is by far the best sounding kit, that I've ever owned. A good friend, recently bought a used, but mint condition, DW collector series, which we played both. Afterward, he thought my Mapex sounded better.. I know drums are a perspective issue. Everyone has different opinions, and ideas of what sounds best to their ears. Not downing DW, they make great drums, but I will never sell my Mapex. I got it preowned, in mint condition, and got a great deal. Theres a point, as a drummer, you have to be happy with what you have, especially when it comes to what you're able to afford. Price does not always dictate the best sound. I've heard less expensive kits, that were worthy of playing, in any venue, that could compete with much higher priced sets. Especially with good heads, and tuned properly. This particular set, is not cheap. Is it worth, and sound, over 5 grand good,, I'd say so, but you can find a used, pro set, with solid hardware, and equally as good sound, for the fraction of that price. Most brand name, high end, flagship kits these days, offer great sounding drums. But, I quess, you get what you pay for, in most instances.Their retail prices, always drop lower, as time goes by, substantially, when buying used. It's just, like a car, some, will only buy new. Still, this set, does sound phenomenal to me, but I dont have those kinds of funds. I'm married, so, if, somehow, I was able to manage to occur the funds, It wouldn't be worth the aftermath.
I'm with you Pal! I also had gotten my Velvetone kit, very slightly pre-used/demo unit, that drummer Derrico Watson was showing as a promotion of these babies when they first came out. He use them so slightly, that I can count the stick hit marks on the heads. Barely used. So I got a 7 piece kit. Never looked back once I got them. Still have them and they are my only kit right now. Very underrated. I owned a Tama imperialstar kit that I bought new in the '80's, but it was time let them go. I already started using an M-birch kit that I bought off my nephew. So being that I had a lot of Mapex stands and they work fine, that I'd keep them and buy a new Mapex kit. Never thought the Velvetone would be in my reach at the time, but God made a way.
@@hoozerob Great story. Well said. I got a five piece, and it was almost illegal the price I paid, Haha. I traded a brand new Tama Starclassic Yesteryear Rock set, that I had just bought, not even a month earlier, when I found the Velvetone. I did have to fork over a little money on the trade, but not much. I walked away once, hoping the bluff would work, and luckily it did. Not downing Tama, but to me, the Velvetone blows the Tama StarClassic, out of the water, both in build, and sound quality. I know that's not really comparing apples to apples, because of the differences in their price points, but price becomes irrelevant, if you dont like the way the drums sound. Sometimes, God does make a way. Thankfully.
@@benjiarehart2878Every time I go into a music store for small odds and ends, like sticks, or to see what's new, I always check out what they have for DW, TAMA, Pearl, Yamaha, ect. But when I get up close to these drums, inspect the workmanship on them, tap the heads or demo a kit if there's one on the floor, at that point, a drum is a drum. They all basically sound the same to me. Doesn't even matter what brand I get, shell dimensions, material, bearing type, ect. Though some of the bigger know brands in some cases seem a tad more refined, but not enough to make any difference. I'll still use the Remo Ambassador heads and tension them the same way. Doesn't matter what, they will end up sounding the same way as my Velvetone kit if I had spent ALOT more and got those. And they don't hold their value any more than the Mapex down the road. Then there's the drummer. I've heard the top of the line drums from all the bigger names played by great drummers and not so good drummers, the heads may have been way out of tension and the mics did not complement the sound either. Point to that is, It's as much what you do with the drum than what brand drum it is. Some of these guys comments in their replies in here just show that they are a bit brainwashed and too loyal to certain brands.
Oh yeah, I almost forgot. The fit and finish of The velvetones are amazing, as I'm sure you well know. The Higher end 900 series stands are great. They hold, stay where you put them, and I've never had to fix or replace any of them. And some of these stands I acquired from my nephew, which he was at least the second owner of that M-Birch kit(which I still have and those take a pounding too). Mapex's initial idea was to keep it simple, but not so much with this magnetic mount system. They might have gone a little overboard with that, but it's fine. Like the M-Birch and the stands that came with it that I bought off my nephew, Velvetones are strong drums as well. They take a pounding. My son occasionally will get behind my kit and play hard, heavy death metal stuff. But the Mapex's take it. Whether he got behind the M-Birch when I had it set up, or the Velvetone. Very underrated. People won't admit it. So they are made in China. Look at all the other brands and where a good part of theirs are made. hmm. lol. ;)
@@hoozerob I agree totally. These companies are always trying to reinvent the wheel. I'm tickled pink over the quality, sound, and especially the look of my Velvetones. I would have never been able to afford them when they came out new in 2011. Correct me, if I'm wrong, but I believe they retailed over 5 grand new, depending on how many pieces you got, but was very thankful I found, and could purchase them. Of all places, I found them at Nashville Used Music. Not downing their inventory, but it was rare to see a set of this caliper, in their drum shop. Their bread and butter is in the more affordable, beginner, to intermediate sets. Drums that the average guy can afford. Usually someone with a more expensive set will sell it on a personal ad. I've been buying from them for years, and most people who are searching high end will usually frequent pro drum shops, which there are a few here, that cater to that crowd. But let me tell you, you go in those shops, and they will have dozens of those high priced sets, but you better be sitting down when you look at the price tag. I've sat and played many of those high end ones, and even if I had money to blow, I still wouldn't buy them new. Some are quite disappointing, especially for the money they are asking. Some of the best sounding sets I've hit on over the years, were the less visually attractive ones, that were years old, but with good heads, and tuned right.
@@benjiarehart2878 Yes. Some of the older drums sounded better. It's funny that a lot of people want to see Slingerland again, and like the brand used to be. It's still a company basically, and part of Gibson, who is in financial trouble as it is. But from what I understand, those old rickety looking Slingerlands sounded really good. As far as the cost of my Velvetone when I bought it back in 2012, like I said it was slightly demoed by Derrico Watson, as he demoed several of these kits around the country. So each store would end up with a demo unit. Couldn't sell them as new now at that point. So I saw these ones that he demoed listed in Ebay from the I think the Drummer Super Store in FL, but I forget now already. Anyway, I bought this kit, then added a separate 8 x 7 tom to complete the set, plus an already included Velvetone snare drum. It cost me $2300 total. Not bad at all then. I also had the opportunity to buy an extra kit(one for studio, one for the road) for around the same money then and for a year or two on. Of course, now I'm sure they are a fair amount more than they were then. I think the Velvetones will remain Mapex's flagship for some time to come. I don't care what they keep doing with their other lines as they keep tweaking them, tampering with the hybrid shells, and bearings. As long as they don't touch the Velvetone's any more than they have, like with the tom mount system.
The only way those mounts would fit in with beautiful lacquered drums would be if the drums were square and finished in chrome. I'm tempted to say if it aint broke don't fix it, but they really do sound good so I think it's going to come down to how well they change the look to match the traditional kit better.
Great drums. Which kind of microphones do you use for Toms? Thank you for answer.
Anderton's have got this for £4,995. They've also got Tama Star walnut sets for £2,775 (albeit only 4pc) and Starclassics for £2,299. What's so great about this set? It's still a shell pack, hardware is extra.
Sound good. I would prefer to tune both heads on toms independently. Comes with good heads and is definitely a quality kit.
I'm on the fence with this one also. The drums sounds fantastic! I think the angle legs and futuristic rack mounts are a bit much and gimmicky . But nowadays you have to offer something different to compete. It's a big risk I hope Mapex can pull it off
Very nice, but, at that price point, would drummers go for DW for example?,
what is your favorite Mapex kit mainly for rock, but also versatile ? I like a wet sounding tom, but also with some attack. ???
These, saturns and armory’s. Yours?
Is this kit lacquer or vinyl?
why toms are shaked ?may be not strong mounting clamb?
That's a lot of money mapex.There is a lot of choices out there for this price range.I wish you nothing but the best.I guess the thing that puzzles me the most,for years all the top manufacturers have followed DW on getting there drums to resonate and sing.Now days seems the new trend is less sustain.I think I'll continue on playing with single ply heads and if I need to dial back a little sustain,there's always drum dots or moon jell. Just my 2 cents.Best of luck mapex.
I agree with you in what you say about resonance and sustain. I have a Mapex Orion Classic, and it uses their former Isolation Tom Mounting System, wich ain't as "fancy" as this one, but it works fine. The cool thing about it is that it is not only on the rack toms, but also on the floor toms and bass drums. I mean, most brands use their own version of this system on rack toms because it is supposed to give more resonance to them, then why don't use them on floor toms or bass drums as well? Mapex did it before (not any more), and it works great. And as you said, if you need less sustain or resonance, you can always use any kind of muffling, but you can't do the opposite, if your drum doesn't give you the resonance and sustain that you want, there is no way you can get it out.
And I agree with you and other comments, about price, as well. It's nothing against Mapex, as I said, I have an Orion and I'm absolutely happy with it, it sounds fantastic to me, but if I had to buy a new kit I wouldn't look at Mapex (none of the current kits, anyway).
+David Suprenant
Yeah it is A LOT of money! However, now Mapex can say, "If you really want/need a truly High-End drum kit, AND you want to stay in the MAPEX family, Here You Go!!!...Plus, our Black Panther Design Labs kits have features that you Will Not Find On Any Other Drums!".
Of Course, they aren't for everyone, and not everyone will be able to afford them. But now Mapex truly has a line of drums to compete with all of the other major brands' highest-end kits, with features & innovation that really sets them apart.
I really think that it's fantastic that they are making the "AUX" drum available with these kits! That is a Game Changer IMO. It makes the kit SO much more VERSATILE for different types of gigs, or for different styles in the studio! I'm sure that the AUX Drums will be optional, but at least they are available!...
I can't tell you how many times I've wanted to get a particular kit, but ultimately had to go with something different because it offered a smaller bass drum for smaller jazz gigs & studio setups.
The addition of the Mapex "AUX" Drum allows you to have One, Complete, MATCHING Set Of Drums that can handle nearly any gig or recording situation. 👍
This might save you from potentially having to purchase two completely different kits for different situations....$$$$!
In addition, this is just the first model that has been released in the BP Design Lab series. I'm really looking forward to what other kits become available in this series!
Regarding the crazy BP Design Labs Magnetic Rack Tom Suspension Mount, while it supposedly works, I honestly think it's a bit much. I love the simple, but effective suspension mount that's on the lower/mid-range Armory & Saturn kits!
IMO it is better than almost any other suspension mount at any price. The way the suspension mount attaches to the BOTTOM of the Lugs also allows you to swap heads w/o having to take the drum off of the kit or rack mount, so that you can keep it in your perfect position. More importantly, it doesn't put strain on the Hoop or Bearing Edges (or affect tuning) like the mounts that attach to the top Tension Rods. :/
I just use traditional muffling methods and tuning techniques to control resonance and sustain.
SIDE NOTE: I also picked up that EQUINOX SNARE during "Drum Month" and a 22% OFF sale at Cascio, and I can HIGHLY RECOMMEND it! It has become one of my absolute favorite snare drums out of a large collection of both modern & vintage snares!
I WANT ONE
They sound freaking amazing. But out of my budget, for sure.
Hate how the tom mounts look, a bit like the Terminator's elbow, but this kit does sound fantastic. Great review again guys.
Ya know I listened to the black widow right before this and that new magnetic Tom mount on this kit just doesn’t make that big of a difference to me. Or MATTS whatever they call it. The normal way of mounting a Tom sounded just fine, but I’ll say the new Tom mounts look solid, and I like the crazy twisty floor Tom legs
Mapex create this awesome system, and the sound engineering puts a lot gate on the Mix kkkkk
Well, I saw this to Russ Miller in Drumeo, and like many others, I was wondering what the hell were those tom holders.
IMO, I can't say anything about how they work in terms of performance since I've only watched two videos with my crappy laptop's speakers, I guess I should be in the room to notice any difference (if there really is) with their regular tom holders. But besides this, what I don't like much about them is that they seem a little impractical in terms of settings, depending on how do you set your kit. I often use an offset configuration with two rack toms, so with these holders It seems I should use two stands instead of one for the toms, or maybe a rack, wich means extra weight to carry and more space occupied. No problem when using a single rack tom configuration, but people using two offset or three or more rack toms may have the same problem, unless they use a rack. I don't know if they do or have planed to do a double version, or something, but anyway, my regular tom holders seem much more flexible in terms of setting.
On the other hand, this convertible bass drum / floor tom / gong drum seems a great idea to me. I guess you could purchase another wood or metal rims to use the same on the batter and reso side if you prefer. And it would be great if they made it in some other sizes.
And regarding those "reinforcement" rings inside the drums, well, in this video I can't really tell if there is any difference respect any other drum kit (with similar characteristics).
A 5k this bad boy should be sitting in your studio not dragged around to gigs. So the weight won’t be an issue.
@@larrytate1657 at 5k it's sure I'm not going to buy it (unless I win a lottery or something) =P but what if someone uses it for recording on different studios ? Anyway, I think the concept behind those tom mounts is very interesting, but the next logical step would be to develope them in terms of pragamatism, size, ease of use, flexibility, etc (like any other new gadget). I guess it's just a matter of time and seeing the acceptance in the market.
One thing, though, I don't like much of these drums is the lack of choice concerning the depths. Yes, they sound great, but I'm one of those guys who still like the deeper sizes.... well, nevermind, I'm not planning to change my drums and they're out of my reach anyway... =P
True. I’m not a huge fan of 10x7s on my 10 toms either. They get higher pitched imo and instead of getting that nice “doom” type sound it’s higher toward an octobon or something, not as bad as octobon more toward that range of higher pitch. But I’ve only tried one 10x7 on a Yamaha hybrid maple and it wasn’t rly for me.
I think it still needs dampened just a tad. Maybe some different heads would fix that resonance I’m hearing. I know other people like that sound, I just don’t prefer it.
Oh def single ply clear ambassadors are about as open heads as you can get. A two ply emperor or G2 coated would def scoop a bit off.
The Tom arms have kind of a 70s nuclear Era brutalism to them, I think they are really cool looking personally
5:22 for those sepultura or imagine dragons inspired songs.
My concerns aren't with the obtrusive characteristics. My concerns are the fact that it's Randall May. I have used their products with marching percussion on yamaha drums and I have never felt like I was constantly fighting the drum hardware more. While their stuff is typically infinitely adjustable, its also infinitely breakable as well. So it concerned me to see this on the show room floor at PASIC when they came out with this. All I thought was "If I cant get my Quads to feel right with them, I really don't want to try and Get my toms right with them. If they look weird and huge that's one thing. The fact that I still cringe every time I see that "M" after marching collegiate quads for 3 years, is another thing entirely.
Sound 10x better than DW
Beautiful sounding kit...but 5.7K USD...*ouch*....I think Ill have to hang onto my Mapex Orions for a while...
the only problem with this kit is resale value. wich is not terrible. i had a ludwig classic maple exotic kit and i sold it for the exact same price, it was like new. resale value on usa made kits is very good.
Aux bass drum just needs a set of snare wires!
Love he color of the sound, all shells.. hands down. But I don't like the amount of sustain and overtones. Especially the rack toms
Nice sound, especially the snare.
Not inexpensive, however.
Mapex Black Panther and Tama SLP.s, are giving the expensive custom made kits, a run for their money.
For that price, a matching snare should be included.
A great sounding kit, however..
Can’t get over how the mount system looks. I know looks shouldn’t matter as much as function and playability. But if I think the kits ugly I’m not gonna play it as well as if I think it looks good. I guess for me it’s a nah….
People complaining about over engineering? Seriously?
What ever happened to simple drum kits.
In the end, it's all about having a great sound. So those "look" discussions are pointless in my oppinion.
Those tom mounts are pretty uggles but I really appreciate that Mapex has the b***s to try off-the-wall new s***
Please review a Tama kit. Preferably a Tama starclassic or Tama star. I just can’t get over how ugly this mounting system looks. At least make it look better than this, looks like terminator’s arm holding up toms or its about to turn into a little Optimus prime.
Because the star mounting systems in the past and present are SO beautiful... at least this one doesn't choke the fuck out of the drum in the process.
Sorry, I can't get over having these huge hunks of metal on the rack toms. I don't hear so much benefit that I can get past them.
🙄 🙄 🙄 🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤
Lol the definition of over engineering
Especially those ugly ass Tom mounts 😱
How much money for a Mapex! !!??? ... these kits won't sell because of the price point. People just won't pay the daft money due to the name on the kick drum head. Simple as that really, even if it does sound great. Which it does. It's a 'Mapex' kit end of.
NOLLLLY
Those Tom mounts are absolutely disgusting !
First impression: Those tom mounts are fugly and over-designed
Those tom mounts are the ugliest thing I’ve ever seen.
Your room has some major problems. An annoying reverb, and the low end for the kick, floor toms is boomy. Not a pleasant sound, IMO.