Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $611
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare is a modern marvel that captures the essence of vintage sound with cutting-edge innovation. This snare is crafted from a 1.2mm ultra-thin seamless aluminum shell, delivering a crisp attack with resonant overtones. Designed for the discerning drummer, its lightweight body offers a pristine performance, whether in the studio or on stage.
Tama's proprietary features make this snare drum a breeze to work with. The Freedom Lug and Claw Hook system allow for rapid head changes, while the Grooved Hoop ensures enhanced tone and projection. The linear-drive strainer, fitted with a ratchet-style tension adjustment knob, provides precise control over your sound, making it easier to adapt to any musical setting.
What truly sets the Starphonic Aluminum Snare apart is its balance of modern functionality with a nod to the "golden age" of drumming. Its super sensitive hi-carbon snappy snares and detachable butt plate ensure quick changes without interrupting your creative flow. For drummers seeking a harmonious blend of vintage warmth and contemporary precision, this snare is a compelling choice.
Key Features:
- 1.2mm ultra-thin seamless aluminum shell
- Quick release Freedom Lug and Claw Hook for rapid drum head changes
- Grooved Hoop for enhanced tone and projection
- Linear-drive strainer with calibrated ratchet-style tension adjustment
- Super sensitive hi-carbon snappy snares
- Detachable butt plate for rapid snare and head changes
- Premium Japanese quality production
Product specs
| Type | Starphonic Snare |
| Drum Depth | 6" |
| Drum Diameter | 14" |
| Shell Material | Aluminum |
| Shell Construction | 1.2mm |
| Hoops | Grooved |
| Lugs | 10 x Freedom Lugs/Claw Hook Ends |
| Finish | Chrome-plated Hardware |
| Heads | Tama by Evans |
| Additional Features | Hi-carbon Snare Wires, Linear-drive Strainer |
FAQs
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What are the tonal characteristics of the Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare?
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The Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare offers a balanced tone that is neither too warm nor too bright, making it versatile for various music genres. Its 1.2mm aluminum shell provides a crisp, articulate sound with a strong attack.
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How does the Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare handle tuning stability?
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The snare features 10 Freedom lugs with claw hook ends, which ensure consistent tuning stability and make it easy to adjust the tension quickly.
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Is the Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare is well-suited for live performances due to its clear projection and dynamic range, which can cut through a mix effectively.
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What is the purpose of the Linear-drive Strainer on the Tama Starphonic Snare?
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The Linear-drive Strainer provides smooth, precise snare wire tension adjustments, allowing drummers to easily achieve their desired snare response.
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What type of drumheads does the Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare come with?
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The snare comes equipped with Tama by Evans drumheads, which are known for their durability and excellent tonal qualities, enhancing the overall performance of the drum.
Videos
Drum Center of Portsmouth
Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare Drum 6x14
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sensitivity; responds well even to subtle playing
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Unique 6x14 depth offers balanced sound; not too shallow or deep
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Grooved Hoops provide a rounded, softer tone while maintaining projection
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Versatile sound range; suitable for various music genres
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Innovative Freedom Lug & Claw Hook system simplifies head changes
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Adjustable snare butt for precise tuning and easy adjustments
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Wide-ranging tonality; performs well at high and low tunings
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Combines metal crack with wood-like warmth for diverse sound
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High build quality; durable and reliable for long-term use
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Highly praised by drummers transitioning from other well-known brands
CONS
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Freedom Lug may still require excessive turns to detach tension rods
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare.
Comparisons
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The Tama Starphonic Aluminum is likened to an Acrolite or Supra, but with superior modern Tama Starphonic hardware.
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While the Yamaha Recording Custom Aluminum is considered, the Starphonic is noted for its non-welded construction and affordability.
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The Pearl Heritage Aluminium Sensitone is another recommended option, noted for being cheaper than the Starphonic in the UK but delivering excellent performance.
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Features and functionality
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The snare is noted for its dry sound, which might make it less versatile compared to wooden or brass snares.
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Its hardware and modern design are highlighted as significant advantages over traditional models like the Supra 402.
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The 6" depth of the Starphonic Aluminum is particularly favored by some users for its tonal qualities.
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Value and pricing
Use cases and applications
User experience
Build quality
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The Starphonic features freedom lugs and seamless shells, offering superior tuning stability with its clicking rods compared to the Supra.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings
100
very versitile
Good for rock and pop songs but with the right heads and tuning you can use it for every style of music
Artist usage
Add artist
"Cynic drummer and Tama artist Sean Reinert just received his brand new 2015 Starclassic Maple kit in beautiful Vintage Antique Maple (VAM). Check it out!
Sizes:
20x18 Bass Drum
8x6 Rack Tom
10x7 Rack Tom
12x10 Rack Tom
14x12 Hanging Floor Tom
16x14 Floor Tom
14x6 Starphonic Aluminum Snare Drum"
Album Usage
The Tama Starphonic Aluminum Snare 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 Starphonic Aluminum Snare, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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