Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $3,499
High-end/Boutique
$999
$2500+
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Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Slingerland Radio King 3-piece Shell Pack". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Step into the rich legacy of drumming with the Slingerland Radio King 3-piece Shell Pack, where vintage craftsmanship meets modern precision. Originally introduced in the 1930s, the Radio King quickly became an icon, known for its three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shells that deliver unparalleled warmth and resonance. This contemporary reissue continues to honor its storied past, featuring steam-bent maple reinforcement rings that enhance both durability and tonal depth.
Meticulously handcrafted in Oxnard, California, each drum in this shell pack is designed to capture the essence of Slingerland's heritage. The 13" x 9" rack tom offers rapid articulation, while the 16" x 16" floor tom adds a robust, resonant low-end. The 22" x 14" bass drum anchors the ensemble with commanding warmth and projection. These drums are not just instruments; they are a bridge to the past, offering a lush resonance suited for genres ranging from big band swing to rock.
Outfitted with nickel-plated hardware, the kit exudes a retro charm with features like Stick Saver hoops for solid tuning stability and comfort. The built-in tone control mufflers offer the versatility to fine-tune your sound without additional dampening, ensuring every performance is as crisp and clear as envisioned.
Key Features:
- Three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shells for warm, rich tones
- Steam-bent maple reinforcement rings for enhanced projection and durability
- 30-degree rounded bearing edges for a vintage feel and softer attack
- Nickel-plated hardware including Stick Saver hoops for improved tuning stability
- Integrated tone control mufflers for customizable sound
- Crafted in Oxnard, CA, paying homage to the original Radio King design
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Slingerland Radio King 3-piece Shell Pack.
Features and functionality
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The Studio King line will use a 5-ply maple/poplar/maple shell formula, drawing from early 70s to mid-80s Slingerland designs, but will be imported.
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Cymbals are a critical component of a drummer's sound, often requiring separate purchases to ensure quality, as included ones in complete kits are usually subpar.
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The reissues can achieve both "wooly" and "metallic" tones, depending on tuning and dynamics, similar to vintage Radio Kings.
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User experience
Use cases and applications
Comparisons
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Despite the vintage appeal of Slingerland kits, modern kits like Pearl, Tama, or Yamaha may be more suitable for beginners due to easier access to parts and reliability.
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The new Slingerland kits are noted to sound amazing in marketing videos and are compared favorably to the early Slingerland formula of 3-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany with maple re-rings.
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The reissued single ply steam bent shells are compared favorably to both vintage models and brands like Craviotto and Noble & Cooley.
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Setup and maintenance
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Vintage Slingerland kits may require attention and care due to their age, potentially needing part replacements or repairs which can be challenging to source.
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Value and pricing
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A 5-piece vintage Slingerland kit with bass, snare, three toms, hi-hat, and crash cymbals can be found for around £310/$300, considered a bargain by some owners.
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Potential buyers are deterred by high prices, with the new Slingerland kits being described as eye-wateringly expensive but still selling out due to their limited edition status.
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The reissue's price of $1899-$1999 is considered steep, with some suggesting it's only worth $750 in today's market.
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Other
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Slingerland drums are being built by DW, leveraging their past experience with Jazz kits similar to the Cloud badge era Slingerlands, indicating a continuity in design philosophy.
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Build quality
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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