Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (3)
$999.99
Reverb
$479.00 New
$899.99 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (193)
$999.99
Thomann
4.0 (1)
$922.00 $899.00 $23.00 · All time low

Average Price: $880

Budget/Beginner

$999

$2500+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Tama Imperialstar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Tama Imperialstar, the definitive choice for beginners and intermediate drummers seeking high-quality experience at an exceptional value. This 6-piece model extends beyond the norm, featuring an additional floor tom to the popular 5-piece variant, offering a wider range of low-end beats for more complex, thundering fills. From hard rock and metal to agile jazz and blues styles, this kit caters to a variety of genres, making it a versatile addition to your musical ensemble.

Along with the 22" bass drum size, the Tama Imperialstar leverages features from TAMA's top-tier Superstar and Starclassic lines to deliver a balanced blend of sound and durability. The 100% poplar 6-ply, 8 mm shells achieve deep, resonant sounds that make every beat count. The wrap finishes are fully bonded to the wood using a gluing process, not double-sided tape, ensuring a robust bond that lets the wood and wrap resonate as one. The ultra low-mass lugs further amplify the rich tones of the toms and floor toms.

Key Features:

  • 100% poplar 6-ply, 8mm shells for deep, resonant sounds
  • Additional floor tom for a wider range of low-end beats
  • Features derived from TAMA's high-end Superstar and Starclassic lines
  • Fully adhered wrap finishes for robust bonding and resonance
  • Double floor tom setup suited for a variety of genres
  • 22" bass drum size for enhanced punch
  • Ultra low-mass lugs for amplified tom and floor tom tones

In collaboration with Meinl, TAMA incorporates name-brand HCS cymbals in this complete kit. The 14" hi-hats, 16" crash, and 20" ride deliver clean sonic separation and are highly durable, allowing full dynamic exploration. This model is the perfect amalgamation of performance and affordability, making it an irresistible choice for drummers at any stage of their career.

Product specs

Finish Dark Blue
Configuration Drum Set with Hardware and Cymbals
Number of Drums 6
Snare (Depth x Diameter) 5" x 14"
Mounted Toms (Depth x Diameter) 7" x 10", 8" x 12"
Floor Toms (Depth x Diameter) 13" x 14", 15" x 16"
Bass Drums (Depth x Diameter) 16" x 22"
Shell Material Poplar
Included Cymbals Meinl HCS 14" Hi-hats, 16" Crash, 20" Ride
Included Stands TAMA Double-braced Hi-hat, Boom, and Straight cymbals stands
Included Drum Pedal TAMA Single-chain pedal
Included Throne TAMA Imperialstar Throne
Tom Holders MTH50 Double-tom holder

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the Tama Imperialstar drum shells?

The Tama Imperialstar drum shells are made from poplar wood, which provides a full, warm tone with a medium attack, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

Is the Tama Imperialstar drum set suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Tama Imperialstar is an excellent choice for beginners, offering a complete drum set experience with high-quality shells and hardware, making it ideal for those starting their drumming journey.

What cymbals are included with the Tama Imperialstar drum set?

The Tama Imperialstar comes with Meinl HCS cymbals, including a 14" hi-hat, 16" crash, and 20" ride, providing a balanced sound suitable for various genres.

How many pieces are included in the Tama Imperialstar drum set?

The Tama Imperialstar is a 6-piece drum set, including a snare drum, two mounted toms, two floor toms, and a bass drum, offering a versatile setup for different playing styles.

Does the Tama Imperialstar drum set come with a drum throne?

Yes, the Tama Imperialstar includes a TAMA Imperialstar throne, providing comfort and stability for drummers during practice and performances.

What hardware is included with the Tama Imperialstar drum set?

The drum set includes TAMA double-braced hi-hat, boom, and straight cymbal stands, along with a single-chain drum pedal, ensuring durable and reliable hardware for drummers.

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Tama Imperialstar vs. Ludwig Element Evolution Drum Set - In Depth Review

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar vs. Ludwig Element Evolution Drum Set - In Depth Review by Drum Center of Portsmouth

Tama Imperialstar vs. Ludwig Element Evolution Drum Set - In Depth Review

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar 5-piece Drum Kit Review - Sweetwater Sound by Sweetwater

Tama Imperialstar 5-piece Drum Kit Review - Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar Kit - Drummer's Review by Drummer's Review

Tama Imperialstar Kit - Drummer's Review

Drummer's Review

Drummer's Review

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar 4-piece Drum Kit Review - Sweetwater Sound by Sweetwater

Tama Imperialstar 4-piece Drum Kit Review - Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

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 by Drumcenter cz

TAMA Imperialstar

Drumcenter cz

Drumcenter cz

Video thumbnail for TAMA IMPERIALSTAR by TAMA Drums Official

TAMA IMPERIALSTAR

TAMA Drums Official

TAMA Drums Official

Video thumbnail for TAMA Imperialstar by Drumcenter cz

TAMA Imperialstar

Drumcenter cz

Drumcenter cz

Video thumbnail for TAMA Imperialstar by Drumcenter cz

TAMA Imperialstar

Drumcenter cz

Drumcenter cz

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar with Debbie Knox-Hewson | Gear4music by Gear4music Guitars

Tama Imperialstar with Debbie Knox-Hewson | Gear4music

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for Tama Imperialstar Drum Set Review by Drum Center of Portsmouth

Tama Imperialstar Drum Set Review

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Video thumbnail for Tama | Imperialstar 20 Drum Set | Sound Demo by Drums Bonedo

Tama | Imperialstar 20 Drum Set | Sound Demo

Drums Bonedo

Drums Bonedo

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Some owners prefer the modern Imperialstar for its poplar construction, wood snare, and better wrap options over the older models.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the Imperialstar's sound quality despite non-professional hardware, with some pro kit owners noting its impressive performance with upgraded heads.

    Source
  • The 1980s Imperialstar kits did not come with cymbals, aligning with the marketing approach of professional-grade drum kits during that era.

    Source
  • Despite some setup challenges, the Tama Imperialstar is praised for its value, making it a strong choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for reliability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Imperialstar is positioned between the Stagestar and Tama Superstar Classic, offering slightly better hardware and finish options than the Stagestar.

    Source
  • Imperialstar shells are thicker than Stagestar shells, offering a more substantial build, although both use poplar wood.

    Source
  • Owners feel the Imperialstar sounds better than budget kits from brands like Pearl or PDP, even though it's considered a low-grade kit today.

    Source
  • The 1980s Imperialstar was second from the top in Tama's lineup, unlike the modern version, which is considered a beginner to intermediate kit.

    Source
  • While the Meinl cymbals included in the bundle are better than beginner-level B8s and ZBTs, they are still considered a weak point for serious players.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users find that replacing stock bass drum hoops can enhance appearance and durability, though this is not commonly mentioned.

    Source
  • Users recommend Evans Hydraulic heads for improved sound, especially when paired with Genera resonant heads on toms.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At nearly $1,000 new, many suggest considering used options, as they often include decent cymbals and hardware for less.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Imperialstar features teardrop lugs and plastic bass hoops with built-in tension rod holes, offering easy adjustments but lacking the aesthetic appeal of metal hoops.

    Source
  • The stock heads are considered thin, prompting many to replace them for a better sound and durability.

    Source
  • The older Imperialstar kits were made from Luan wood, also known as Philippine Mahogany, which is debated in terms of quality but was used effectively in construction.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners report the kit is sufficient for home practice and informal jam sessions, but note differences when compared to high-end sets.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The stock hi-hat stand may not comfortably accommodate a double bass pedal setup, leading some to opt for a two-legged stand for more space.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 18 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jeremy_crockett

"Intermediate" Level Drums That Deliver "Professional" Sound.

I am absolutely crazy about this Tama kit. This is likely the least unbiased review I have written to date. Part of my enthusiasm is due to the fact that I got an amazingly killer deal on my particular set. I picked it up online for $350.

I will start by pointing out the most obvious weakness which are the included cymbals. Like all entry-level kits, the cymbals were of fairly low quality. They were Meinl HCSs.

From what I can see the shells are very well built. The kit I have is over 10 years old and the wraps are holding up perfectly. The included hardware is absolutely first-rate and very heavy-duty. Both the kick drum and hi-hat pedals perform their tasks flawlessly and are very responsive.

Since I bought the kit, I have upgraded the cymbals to Paiste PST7s and replaced the clear heads with Remo Emperor Vintage Coated and this set sounds like a million dollars!

Tama gets great reviews online and elsewhere and now I completely understand why. If you are considering a starter kit, the Imperialstar will carry you down the road for YEARS.

Roles:
Genres:
cameron_fairlie

Great Beginner Set

I love this set. Mine are the fancy blue fish (not Midnight -- the other one) and are the five piece iteration. Sweet set, definitely the best sounding of the beginner range drum sets!

skylinerr

My first kit

I got the blacked out 6 piece which I added a second bass drum to.

Genres:
jacobbaldwinmusic

A great intermediate kit

This was my first and current drum kit. I love it. It can definitely sound great if you know what you're doing!

nickmarcinko

Great Drumset

Was my very first drum set, it's been holding up nicely for that past 9 years.

A

real good

my first and only drumset, i've played better drumsets but this one is good too

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Brayden B Drums uses Tama Imperialstar

Brayden B Drums

Drummer

...
Verified via Facebook

Brayden B can be seen using a Tama Imperialstar on the ODD AC Journey Coffee live stream.

See how William Larsson uses Tama Imperialstar

William Larsson

Drummer

Hill Bomb

...
Verified via Photo

On November 19, 2023, during a live gig, drummer William Larsson was observed borrowing a Tama Imperialstar drum set in gold yellow, as evidenced by the image available.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Tama Imperialstar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
stratguy01

stratguy01

Gear IQ 167

sergeyjoseph

sergeyjoseph

Gear IQ 61

B

bigboimoves5

Gear IQ 57

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