Pricing and availability

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

Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$1,559.99
Amazon
$1,559.99
Musician's Friend
4.0 (19)
$1,559.99
Thomann
$915.00 $911.00 $4.00 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Tama Octobans". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your inner rhythm maestro with the Tama Octobans, a quintessential addition to any progressive drummer's arsenal. Known for their unique design, these drums have been the choice of legendary drummers like Simon Phillips and Stewart Copeland. With 6-inch diameter shells of varying lengths, the Octobans offer a melodic range that can elevate your percussion setup to new heights. Their pitch is determined by the length of each shell, allowing you to create a tuneful, dynamic soundscape. Whether you're playing intricate solos or adding texture to a band ensemble, the Octobans are renowned for their ability to articulate expressive musical ideas.

These drums are built to last, featuring a robust construction that ensures stability and durability. The included HW 119 stand is double-braced, providing the support needed for intense performances. Available in high-pitched or low-pitched sets, the Octobans offer versatility and adaptability, making them an excellent choice for both studio recordings and live gigs. Elevate your drumming experience with Tama's innovative and enduring craftsmanship.

Key Features:

  • 6-inch diameter shells with varying lengths for a wide range of pitches
  • Double-braced HW 119 stand for exceptional stability
  • Available in high-pitched or low-pitched sets
  • Ideal for melodic expression in progressive music
  • Trusted by renowned drummers like Simon Phillips and Stewart Copeland
ivecadit

ivecadit

Tama Octoban Drum Solo

Video thumbnail for Tama Octoban Drum Solo by ivecadit

Tama Octoban Drum Solo

ivecadit

ivecadit

Video thumbnail for TAMA オリジナル・パーカッション -オクタバン- by TAMA Drums Japan Official

TAMA オリジナル・パーカッション -オクタバン-

TAMA Drums Japan Official

TAMA Drums Japan Official

Video thumbnail for Tama Octobans video demo by cgdrum

Tama Octobans video demo

cgdrum

cgdrum

Video thumbnail for Tama Octobans / Ludwig kit. by Marty French3rd

Tama Octobans / Ludwig kit.

Marty French3rd

Marty French3rd

Video thumbnail for Tama Octobans and Gong Drum #octobans #gongdrum #tama by Sturla Nøstvik

Tama Octobans and Gong Drum #octobans #gongdrum #tama

Sturla Nøstvik

Sturla Nøstvik

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • Tama Octobans are made from fibrous resin with a unique outer texture resembling water droplets, distinguishing them from PVC knockoffs.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Tama's rims are slightly elevated above the bearing edge, impacting playability on these small targets.

    Source
  • Vintage Octobans use Granstar lugs, while newer models feature Starclassic lugs, helping identify the model's era.

    Source

Comparisons

  • DDrum's deccabons are cheaper but suffer from QC issues like hard, uneven bearing edges, unlike Tama's consistent build quality.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing stock Tama Octoban mounts with Ludwig LAPAM lug/mount combos allows full adjustability without drilling new holes in the shell.

    Source
  • Using a double L-rod holder with 12.7mm L-rods facilitates easier mounting and positioning of Octobans on existing stands.

    Source
  • Mounting issues can be resolved by using a Tama floor tom leg bracket if the vertical hole spacing is 52mm.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The original Tama Octoban mount has a 3-hole screw pattern, which is different from the typical 2-hole tom mounts.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the original Tama Octoban mounts are less flexible compared to Pearl's or ddrums' mounts, which offer more positioning freedom.

    Source
  • 3D printing custom mounts for Tama Octobans has been successfully done by owners, although securing the locking nuts with epoxy was necessary.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

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See how Taylor Hawkins uses Tama Octobans

Taylor Hawkins

Singer, Drummer

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via YouTube

During a Foo Fighters promotional event for "Medicine at Midnight" in early 2021, Taylor Hawkins can be seen using a pair of Tama Octobans in a live performance, as shown in a SiriusXM video.

See how Mike Portnoy uses Tama Octobans

Mike Portnoy

Drummer

Avenged Sevenfold

...
Verified via Photo

The picture shows Mike's kit from 2000 tour, which featured 6 octobans. Mike has said they are his favourite drums, so he tries to have them always on his kits.

See how Stewart Copeland uses Tama Octobans

Stewart Copeland

Singer, Guitarist

The Police

...
Verified via Drummagazine

Among other things, he was able to do this with his 13" hi-hats and the help of Tama’s innovative 1978 creation: Octobans, a set of eight (octo) 6"-diameter, single-headed drums distinguished by long, tube-like shells of varying lengths, which determined the pitch of each drum. Copeland made profuse use of, and did much to popularize, these and other similarly new products debuting at the time.

See how Bill Bruford uses Tama Octobans

Bill Bruford

Drummer

King Crimson

...
Verified via Bill Bruford

Used the low octave octobans on many of his drum kits.

See how Simon Phillips uses Tama Octobans

Simon Phillips

Drummer, Composer

Judas Priest

...
Verified via Drummerworld

The picture shows the 'classic' 4-octoban set at Simon's left, which he kindly uses in a melodic way.

See how Yoshiki uses Tama Octobans

Yoshiki

Drummer, Keyboardist

X Japan

...
Verified via Modern Drummer Magazine

:I’m sure many of you may be curious to know what my gear and setup is, so I wanted to break down my always-evolving kit for you. I use a Tama Artstar II (clear acrylic) with four Octabans; 10?, 12?, 13?, 14? toms; 16? and 18? floor toms; and a 24? kick. I use Tama kick pedals, 14? Zildjian hi-hats (K top), two 18? Zildjian Rock crashes, an 18? Zildjian Medium crash, a 20? Zildjian K ride, two 22? Zildjian Chinas (High right/Low left), a sixty-one-key modified keyboard on my left, and a thirty-seven-key modified keyboard on the right.:

See how Steve Jansen uses Tama Octobans

Steve Jansen

Drummer

Japan

...
Verified via Lifeintokyo

According to this article, Steve Jansen used Tama Octabans while performing live with Japan.

Album Usage

The Tama Octobans has been featured on the following albums:

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 Octobans, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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leonharden

leonharden

Gear IQ 173

leonharden

leonharden

Gear IQ 173

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See also: Drums, Tama, Tama Drums

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