Tama

Tama at Kirstein – drum kits, snare drums and hardware

Tama belongs to Hoshino Gakki and has been marketed internationally under its current brand name since 1974. However, the roots of its drum production go back further: drums were already being produced under the Star name in the 1960s. This heritage is still reflected in series names such as STAR and Starclassic. Tama is particularly interesting for drummers because its range goes far beyond shell sets. From complete drum kits and snare drums to bass drum pedals, hi-hat stands, cymbal stands and snare stands, a setup can be assembled with components designed to work together.

From Imperialstar and Superstar Classic to STAR

When choosing a Tama drum kit, it is worth considering the equipment and intended use first. Stagestar and Imperialstar are suitable starting points if you need a largely complete solution including essential hardware. In the complete drum sets with hardware and cymbals category, you can find suitable sets that make it easier to plan your first setup. If you already own cymbals or want to configure your kit more individually, the shell sets plus hardware category is another useful option.

Superstar Classic sits above these ranges and combines the traditional Superstar concept with modern maple shells and contemporary hardware. The series is suitable for drummers looking for a versatile acoustic kit for rehearsals, stage or studio use with room to expand the setup. Starclassic is aimed more strongly at professional applications. Introduced in 1994, the product family includes Starclassic Maple, Starclassic Walnut/Birch and Starclassic Performer, offering different shell constructions and tonal characteristics.

At the top of the range is the Japan-made STAR series. Tama uses materials including maple, bubinga and walnut and places particular emphasis on shell construction, resonance and minimising the influence of mounted hardware on the shell. For experienced drummers who want to select sound, configuration and equipment in detail, STAR represents the premium end of the Tama drum range.

Tama snare drums – from individual sounds to signature models

A snare drum has a major influence on the response, attack and overall character of a drum kit. Tama therefore offers a variety of dedicated snare families, including STAR, STARPHONIC, S.L.P., Metalworks and various signature models. Depending on the series, different shell materials, dimensions and construction concepts are available. If you want to expand the sound of an existing kit, snare drums offer many possibilities. Shell material, diameter, depth and the desired response are particularly important factors when making your choice.

Iron Cobra, Speed Cobra and Tama drum hardware

Hardware is a major part of the Tama range in its own right. The Iron Cobra family is particularly well known for its single and double pedals as well as matching hi-hat solutions. Speed Cobra adds further pedal and hi-hat concepts to the range. When choosing a bass drum pedal, playing feel, drive system, footboard and adjustment options are key considerations. For fast double-bass passages or setups using two beaters, you can explore different models in the double pedal category.

For the hi-hat, your playing style and the available space around the kit are equally important. Tama offers both traditional designs and models with rotating or two-legged bases, which can be particularly useful in combination with double pedals. You can find an overview in the hi-hat stands category. The hardware range is completed by cymbal stands, snare stands, tom mounts and drum thrones.

Which Tama drum kit is right for you?

For beginners, a fully equipped set is often the simplest solution because fewer individual components need to be selected separately. Imperialstar and Stagestar are typical starting points for this approach. More advanced drummers can use Superstar Classic to choose more specifically according to shell sizes, configuration and existing hardware. Starclassic and STAR are suitable when sound concept, wood selection and professional equipment become more important. Additional combinations with bags, practice accessories or other components can also be found among the drum set bundles.

If you are deciding between different series, shell sizes or hardware configurations, expert advice can help you match the setup to your musical style, playing technique and existing equipment. At Kirstein, you also benefit from expert advice, a 3 Year Kirstein Warranty and 30 Day Money Back in accordance with the applicable terms and conditions.