Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Tama Imperialstar | Vintage Red is your gateway to a rich and resonant drumming experience, crafted with both beginners and seasoned percussionists in mind. This 5-piece drum set is a harmonious blend of quality craftsmanship and budget-friendly pricing, allowing you to embrace the full spectrum of TAMA's renowned legacy without compromise.

At the heart of the Imperialstar kit are the 100% poplar shells, delivering a warm, full-bodied tone that has been a staple in drum making for decades. These shells are enveloped in a rugged PVC finish, ensuring durability and longevity, while maintaining a vibrant aesthetic that stands out on any stage. The snare drum, crafted from solid steel, adds a crisp, cutting edge to your performance.

Every component of this set is designed with precision and reliability in mind. The Imperialstar lugs, high-caliber bass drum spurs, and the innovative Accu-Tune bass drum hoops offer ease of tuning and stability during your most dynamic sessions. The Stagemaster hardware series, complete with a sturdy HT25 throne, ensures a robust setup that can withstand rigorous play.

Whether you're laying down your first beat or refining your groove, the Imperialstar is a versatile companion that adapts to your style and grows with your skill.

Key Features:

  • Complete drum kit with 100% poplar shells for warm, resonant tones
  • Includes bass drum, toms, solid steel snare drum, and Stagemaster hardware
  • Imperialstar lugs and Accu-Tune bass drum hoops for enhanced tuning and stability
  • Durable PVC finish and precise bearing edges for optimal sound projection
  • Comes with an HT25 throne for comfortable performance sessions

FAQs

What materials are used in the Tama Imperialstar drum shells?

The Tama Imperialstar drum shells are made from 100% poplar, known for its warm tone and medium attack, with an 8-ply construction for durability and sound quality.

Is the Tama Imperialstar suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Tama Imperialstar is an entry-level drum kit, making it ideal for beginners. It comes as a complete set with shells, hardware, and cymbals, allowing new drummers to start playing immediately.

What hardware is included with the Tama Imperialstar drum kit?

The Tama Imperialstar includes the "Stagemaster" hardware series, which features Imperialstar lugs, bass drum spurs, tom holder, and a strainer, providing stability and ease of use for drummers.

Does the Tama Imperialstar come with a drum throne?

Yes, the Tama Imperialstar drum kit comes with the HT25 drum throne, offering comfort and adjustability for drummers during practice and performances.

What is the finish of the Tama Imperialstar drum shells?

The Tama Imperialstar drum shells feature an original PVC covering, providing a durable and attractive finish in the Vintage Red color.

iDrum Magazine

iDrum Magazine

Tama Imperialstar Review | iDrum Magazine #29

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar Review | iDrum Magazine #29 by iDrum Magazine

Tama Imperialstar Review | iDrum Magazine #29

iDrum Magazine

iDrum Magazine

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set with Hardware at samash.com by samashdirect

Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set with Hardware at samash.com

samashdirect

samashdirect

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Tama Imperialstar | Vintage Red.

Features and functionality

  • The Tama Imperialstar kit often comes with beginner-level cymbals, specifically Meinl HCS, which are considered adequate but not exceptional, particularly the crash, which some find too dry.

    Source
  • The included hi-hat stand may not accommodate double bass pedals comfortably; a two-legged stand is recommended for more space.

    Source
  • The Imperialstar set is noted to include a cowbell, a unique feature compared to other similarly priced kits.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners note that the lack of memory locks and guided marked spurs makes leveling the bass drum challenging, complicating setup for consistent positioning.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users prefer older Tama Rockstar kits, which use birch and walnut over poplar, suggesting these materials offer better sound and durability compared to the Imperialstar's budget-friendly poplar shells.

    Source
  • Tama Imperialstar provides better value compared to older B8 and ZBT cymbals, though Sabian Xs20s offer a noticeable upgrade.

    Source
  • The Pearl bass pedal on the red Silverstar set is dual-chain, offering more stability and reliability than the single-chain PDP pedal on the other Silverstar set.

    Source

User experience

  • Players who have used both single and double bass setups often find double pedals less satisfying, citing power loss and friction issues compared to two separate bass drums.

    Source
  • Owners find the stock tom heads challenging to tune, recommending immediate upgrades for better sound and ease of tuning.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's been observed that many live performers with two bass drums typically only use one actively, with the second serving as a backup or for aesthetic purposes.

    Source
  • Some users place a pillow in the bass drum for a tighter sound, highlighting the importance of internal damping for tone control.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Evans G2 Clears for toms and Evans Genera Dry for snare significantly enhance sound quality, especially for rock and metal styles.

    Source

Build quality

  • Stock rims are noted as flimsy, potentially affecting durability during heavy use.

    Source
  • The Imperialstar kit includes plastic kick hoops, which some users suggest avoiding in favor of matching wood hoops for better durability and aesthetic cohesion.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite the included low-quality cymbals, the Imperialstar is priced competitively at $495, making it an attractive option for beginners willing to upgrade cymbals later.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Tama Drum Sets

Tama Imperialstar

$479.00 - $999.99

# 4

Rank

Mike Portnoy Bill Ward Roger Taylor
14 artists using
Tama Double Bass Drum Kit

$1,499.00 - $1,999.99

# 17

Rank

Jamie Miller Brian Frasier-Moore Steve Felton
7 artists using
Tama Starclassic (Maple)

$3,134.00 - $3,999.99

# 22

Rank

Tim Henson Lars Ulrich Dominic Howard
49 artists using
Tama Club-JAM Kit

$299.99 - $749.99

# 34

Rank

Russel Hobbs Josh Fleury
2 artists using
Tama Stagestar

$619.00 - $749.99

# 86

Rank

Sam Acchione
1 artist using
Tama Silverstar

 

 
Eloy Casagrande Mike Portnoy Dale Crover
8 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides