Mapex is a brand that has always fascinated me as an avid drummer. A good drum brand can make or break a musician’s performance, and over the years, Mapex has proven time and again that it is one of the best drum brands out there. The firm’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among drummers of all levels.
There’s no denying that the drumming community is fiercely passionate about their instruments. Many drummers take time to research every detail before making a purchase decision. If you’re one of those, I strongly recommend giving Mapex a try. Judging by its popularity and reputation among musicians, it would be a wise choice to upgrade existing drum set or get a new one as a beginner. With a truly impressive range of products, from entry-level kits to high-end professional sets, Mapex ensures that every drummer can find something that will suit their individual needs.
When you’re a drummer, your sound is everything. That’s why investing in Mapex drum sets is always a smart move. The company’s dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail is simply unparalleled, and it’s something that really sets Mapex apart from other brands in the industry. With Mapex, you’ll get top-quality drums that deliver incredible sound quality, no matter what style of music you’re playing. So why wait? If you’re looking for a new drum set or simply want to upgrade your existing one, look no further than Mapex – you won’t regret it.
History of Mapex
Mapex is a leading drum brand known for producing high-quality percussion instruments for drummers of all levels. The brand was established in 1989 by KHS Musical Instruments Company in Taiwan and has since become one of the most respected drum manufacturers in the industry.
Mapex’s early days were spent producing all types of musical instruments, but eventually, they found their niche in drum manufacturing. The brand’s first line of drums, the Pro M series, was introduced in 1996 and quickly gained popularity amongst drummers seeking professional-quality instruments at an affordable price.
- 1999 – The Saturn Series was introduced, featuring a unique hybrid shell design.
- 2002 – Mapex launched the Black Panther series, focusing on high-end snare drums.
- 2004 – The Orion Series was launched, with maple and walnut shells, making it one of the brand’s most popular ranges.
Today, Mapex’s product line has expanded to include a wide range of drum kits, hardware, and accessories. The company’s commitment to producing quality products at reasonable prices has served them well over the years, earning them a loyal following among drummers and percussionists worldwide.
| Year | Product | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Pro M series | Mapex’s first line of drums designed for professionals seeking affordable instruments. |
| 1999 | Saturn Series | Featured a unique hybrid shell design offering a blend of maple and walnut wood. |
| 2002 | Black Panther series | Introduced high-end snare drums featuring a range of wood types, shell thicknesses, and finishes. |
| 2004 | Orion Series | Maple and walnut shells offering a warm and full-bodied sound. The series continues to be one of the brand’s most popular ranges. |
Mapex’s commitment to creating innovative and unique drum products has made them a popular choice among drumming enthusiasts. The brand continues to produce high-quality percussion instruments with a focus on affordability, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals.
Mapex Drum Kits
Mapex is a well-established drum brand that has been around since the 1990s. Over the years, they have produced a wide range of drum kits, each with its own unique characteristics. If you’re in the market for a new drum kit, you may be wondering if Mapex is a good brand. In this article, we will take a closer look at Mapex drum kits and what makes them stand out from the rest.
- Quality: Mapex drum kits are known for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether you opt for their entry-level models or their high-end kits, you can expect to receive a high-quality instrument that is built to last.
- Versatility: Mapex drum kits are also known for being versatile. They are suitable for a wide range of musical genres, including rock, jazz, and pop. This versatility makes them a great choice for drummers who like to experiment with different styles of music.
- Design: In addition to their sound and versatility, Mapex drum kits are also known for their unique and innovative designs. Whether you’re looking for a classic look or something more modern, you’re sure to find a drum kit that suits your style.
When it comes to choosing a Mapex drum kit, there are several factors to consider. You’ll want to think about your budget, your skill level, and your specific needs as a drummer. Some of the most popular Mapex drum kits include the Saturn V, the Mars, and the Armory series. Each of these kits has its own unique sound and style, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that’s right for you.
If you’re still undecided, you might want to consider checking out some reviews or visiting a music store to try out a few different Mapex drum kits for yourself. By doing so, you’ll be able to get a better sense of the sound, feel, and quality of their various drum kits and make an informed decision about which one to purchase.
| Model | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Saturn V | $1,399-$2,999 | Hybrid shells, exotic wood veneers, SONIClear tom suspension system. |
| Mars | $599-$1,249 | Birch shells, SONIClear tom suspension system, low-mass lugs. |
| Armory | $899-$1,399 | Birch/maple hybrid shells, SONIClear tom suspension system, finished interiors. |
In conclusion, Mapex drums are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and well-designed drum kit. With so many different models and price points to choose from, you’re sure to find a Mapex drum kit that meets your specific needs and budget.
Mapex Snare Drums
If you are in the market for a new snare drum, Mapex is a brand that should definitely be on your radar. Mapex has been a popular name in the drumming world for decades, and for good reason. Their snare drums are known for their high quality, versatility, and unique features that set them apart from other brands. Here are some reasons why Mapex snare drums are a great choice:
- Quality materials: Mapex uses only the highest quality materials to create their snares. From the shells to the hardware, everything is made with care and precision to ensure that each drum is of the utmost quality.
- Wide range of sounds: Mapex snare drums come in a variety of sizes and materials, meaning you can find a snare that gives you the exact sound you are looking for. Whether you want a deep and punchy snare or a bright and sensitive one, Mapex has you covered.
- Innovative features: Mapex is always pushing the boundaries of what a snare drum can do. Many of their snare drums come with unique features, such as the Sonic Saver hoops that reduce vibration and increase warmth, or the Black Panther line that uses exotic woods and intricate designs to create truly one-of-a-kind instruments.
If you need any more convincing, take a look at some of the popular Mapex snare drums:
| Model | Features |
|---|---|
| Black Panther Design Lab Cherry Bomb | 7-ply cherry/walnut shell, Sonic Saver hoops, vintage-style tube lugs, Remo drumheads |
| Steel Piccolo | 1mm steel shell, chrome hardware, flanged hoops, Remo drumheads |
| Black Panther Wraith | Maple/walnut shell, Sonic Saver hoops, cylinder-drive strainer, Remo drumheads |
As you can see, Mapex offers a wide range of snare drums to suit any playing style or preference. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, a Mapex snare drum is a great investment that will serve you well for years to come.
Mapex hardware
Mapex is known for making drums that are both high-quality and affordable. In addition to their drum sets, Mapex also offers a wide range of hardware options to help drummers set up their kits and keep them stable and secure during performances. Here are some of the key features of Mapex hardware that make them a great choice for any drummer:
- Sturdy construction: Mapex hardware is built to last, with high-quality materials like steel, aluminum, and chrome. This makes it strong enough to support heavy cymbals and other accessories, without adding unnecessary weight to your drum set.
- Customizable options: Mapex hardware comes in a range of sizes and styles, so you can easily mix and match pieces to find the perfect setup for your individual playing style. Whether you need a single stand or a whole set of hardware, Mapex has you covered.
- Easy to use: Mapex hardware is designed with the needs of drummers in mind, with features like quick-release cymbal locks, adjustable tension mechanisms, and memory locks for fast and easy setup and teardown.
One of the most popular Mapex hardware options is their Mars series hardware pack, which includes everything you need to get started with a new drum set. This pack features double-braced stands for maximum stability, as well as a P600 bass drum pedal with adjustable beater weight, a hi-hat stand with direct-pull linkage for smooth and precise control, and a snare stand with adjustable basket and rubber feet for secure placement.
Another great option is the Armory series snare stand, which features a unique dual-tilt adjuster for easy positioning of your snare drum, as well as a die-cast basket for superior strength and durability. The Armory series also includes a range of other hardware options, including boom cymbal stands, hi-hat stands, and thrones, all designed with the same attention to detail and quality that you expect from Mapex.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality materials make it strong and durable | Not as widely available as some other brands |
| Customizable options allow you to mix and match pieces for a perfect setup | Can be more expensive than lower-end hardware |
| Easy to use features like quick-release locks and adjustable tension mechanisms |
Overall, Mapex hardware is a great choice for any drummer looking for high-quality, affordable hardware options. With a wide range of customizable pieces, easy-to-use features, and sturdy construction, Mapex hardware offers everything you need to keep your drum set secure and stable so you can focus on your playing.
Types of drums available from Mapex
When it comes to drum brands, Mapex is a familiar name among the music enthusiasts. The brand has been in the industry for over three decades, providing drummers with quality and reliable instruments. Mapex offers a wide range of drums, catering to the needs and preferences of different drummers. Here are some of the types of drums available from Mapex:
- Acoustic drums
- Electronic drums
- Snare drums
- Bass drums
- Tom-toms
Acoustic drums are the most popular and widely used type of drums. Mapex offers a variety of acoustic drum sets including the Saturn V, Armory, and Mars Series. Each of these drum sets is designed to deliver a different sound quality, catering to various genres of music.
Electronic drums are becoming increasingly popular, and Mapex offers a series of these drums called the Prodigy. The Prodigy series is perfect for beginners and intermediate drummers who want to experiment with different sounds without breaking the bank.
Snare drums are an essential component of any drum set, and Mapex offers an extensive range of snare drums. The Black Panther and the Saturn V are two popular snare drum series offered by Mapex.
Bass drums are the heart of any drum set, and Mapex provides a range of high-quality bass drums to choose from. The Saturn V and Armory bass drums are perfect for drummers who want to deliver a punchy sound that resonates throughout the performance.
Tom-toms are another essential component of any drum set, and Mapex has a comprehensive range to choose from. The Mars and Armory series of tom-toms are popular among drummers and are known for their exceptional sound quality.
Mapex drum series and their specifications
| Drum Series | Number of Pieces | Shell Material | Hardware Material | Sound Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saturn V | 4-7 pieces | Maple and Walnut Hybrid | Chrome-plated | Full-bodied and warm sound |
| Armory | 4-7 pieces | Birch and Maple Hybrid | Black-plated | Punchy and articulate sound |
| Mars | 4-6 pieces | Birch | Black-plated | Bright and balanced sound |
| Black Panther | Variety of Snare Drums | Various woods | Various metals/woods | Wide range of sound options |
Each of the different drum series offered by Mapex has its own set of features and specifications. The Saturn V, Armory, and Mars series are all designed to cater to different genres of music and playing styles. The Black Panther series offers a wide range of snare drum options, allowing drummers to choose the perfect sound for their performance.
Popular Mapex Drum Lines
Mapex is a well-known drum brand in the industry, providing drummers of different skill levels with high-quality drums that deliver exceptional sound quality and value for money. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the popular Mapex drum lines that are available on the market today.
Mapex Black Panther
The Black Panther series is undoubtedly Mapex’s most famous line, and it’s easy to see why. The drums have a beautiful look and fantastic sound thanks to the combination of high-end materials and the latest drum-making technology. The Black Panther line includes snare drums, drum sets, and individual toms, all of which feature superb craftsmanship and tonality.
Mapex Armory
The Armory series is another popular choice of drum line for drummers. These drums are built to be both durable and versatile, making them suitable for gigs, rehearsals, and anything in between. Mapex has employed hybrid-shell technology to produce a perfect sound while keeping the drums lightweight, which translates to a more vibrant, resonant tone.
Mapex Saturn V
- Rounder, more understated bearing edges for a responsive and sensitive kit
- Wide dynamic range that’s perfect for anything from soft ballads to heavy rock
- Mapex Soniclear bearing edge that enhances resonance and sustain
Mapex Mars
The Mars series drums are designed with the intermediate drummer in mind and come with a complete set of hardware, cymbals, and drums. The Mars drum sets have impressive finish options and tune accurately due to the Soniclear bearing edge technology. Additionally, these drums are known for their power, sustain, and projection.
Mapex Versatus
| Configuration | Shell Material | Shell Thickness | Bearing Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Piece Shell Pack | Maple and Walnut Hybrid | 6mm⁄4mm | 45-degree inner bearing edge with a 1.5mm Sonic Saver hoop |
| 3-Piece Shell Pack | Maple and Walnut Hybrid | 6mm⁄4mm | 45-degree inner bearing edge |
The Versatus series drums are manufactured in collaboration with Russ Miller. The drums are constructed with a hybrid shell made of maple and walnut to provide an elegant aesthetic and tonal options. These drums are designed to cater to a wide range of drumming styles while remaining responsive and dynamic.
In conclusion, Mapex offers a range of high-quality drum lines that appeal to a variety of drummers. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced player, Mapex has something to meet your needs.
Comparison of Mapex to other drum brands
Mapex is a well-known drum brand in the market. It has established itself over the years as a reliable and affordable option for drum enthusiasts. However, when it comes to making a purchase, people often wonder how it compares to other drum brands in the market. In this article, we will take a closer look at how Mapex compares to other drum brands in terms of quality, features, and price.
- Pearl: Pearl is a high-end drum brand that is known for its superior quality drums. While Mapex is priced lower than Pearl, its quality is quite competitive with Pearl’s. Both brands offer premium features and a wide range of products for beginners and professionals alike.
- Yamaha: Yamaha is another top-tier drum brand that competes with Mapex on both price and quality. While Yamaha is known for its consistency and durability, Mapex sets itself apart with its unique design and customization options.
- Tama: Tama is a popular drum brand famous for its innovative products and exceptional quality. While the price range for Tama and Mapex drums overlap, Tama usually offers slightly better features and performance in its premium products.
When it comes to comparing drum brands, no single brand can be declared as the clear winner. Each brand offers unique features that can appeal to different users. However, Mapex’s strong point is that it offers quality products at an affordable price range, making it a great option for budget-conscious drum enthusiasts.
Additionally, Mapex’s customization options are unparalleled, allowing users to fully personalize their drum set by selecting different configurations, finishes, and hardware options. The company also offers a range of products suitable for every skill level, making it an accessible brand for beginners and professionals alike.
In conclusion, while Mapex may not be the most well-known or high-end drum brand in the market, it offers competitive quality, performance, and customization options at an affordable price range. If you are considering buying a drum set, Mapex is definitely a brand worth checking out.
| Brand | Price Range | Features | Quality | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mapex | Affordable to Mid-range | Competitive | Good | Unparalleled |
| Pearl | Mid-range to High-end | Premium | Superior | Good |
| Yamaha | Affordable to High-end | Premium | Consistent and Durable | Fair |
| Tama | Affordable to High-end | Innovative | Exceptional | Fair |
Table: A comparison of Mapex to other leading drum brands in the market.
Testimonials from Mapex drummers
As a top drum brand in the music industry, Mapex has garnered a loyal following of drummers who have experienced the quality of their products. Here are some testimonials from renowned Mapex drummers:
- Chris Adler, drummer of the band Lamb of God, states, “Mapex drums are extremely versatile. They possess the tonal range to accommodate any genre of music, all while projecting the power and sonic fury required for heavy metal.”
- Taylor Hawkins, drummer of the Foo Fighters, says, “The quality of Mapex’s craftsmanship sets them apart from any other drum brand. I’ve played Mapex drums for years, and they produce an incredibly clear and defined sound that makes any performance stand out.”
- Ben Gordon, drummer of Biffy Clyro, has this to say about Mapex drums: “I’ve always been impressed by the durability of Mapex drum kits. Even after months of touring, the kits consistently produce an incredible sound and never break down.”
In addition to these top-tier drummers, many up-and-coming musicians have also expressed their affinity for Mapex drum sets. The durability and consistent sound production make them a reliable choice for musicians of all levels.
If you’re considering investing in Mapex drums, take note of these testimonials and get a glimpse of what it’s like to play on these world-class kits.
Final Thoughts
Mapex’s dedication to crafting high-quality drums continues to earn them respect and admiration from the music community. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence have resulted in an extensive range of drum sets that are capable of delivering great sound across any genre. From aspiring musicians to seasoned professionals, Mapex is the go-to brand for drummers across the world.
Mapex Drum Shell Materials
Mapex is a highly respected name in the world of drums with a reputation for producing high-quality instruments for musicians of all levels. One of the key factors that contribute to Mapex’s popularity and success is their commitment to using only the best drum shell materials available.
- Birch: Birch is a popular drum shell material because of its focused sound and pronounced attack. Mapex uses premium, hand-selected birch to create warm, punchy tones that cut through any mix.
- Maple: Maple is another popular drum shell material, prized for its warm, rich sound. Mapex maple shells are carefully crafted to deliver full-bodied, resonant tones with excellent projection.
- Walnut: Walnut is a newer material to the drum shell market, but it has quickly gained popularity among drummers for its dark, warm tone. Mapex walnut shells are expertly crafted to produce a focused, controlled sound that is perfect for any musical genre.
Advantages of Mapex Drum Shell Materials
Mapex drum shell materials offer several advantages over other materials. First and foremost, Mapex uses only the highest quality materials, ensuring that their drums produce the best possible sound. Additionally, Mapex shells are carefully crafted to exact specifications, resulting in consistent sound quality across all their drum kits.
When it comes to tone, Mapex drum shell materials are second to none. Birch shells produce a bright, cutting sound that is ideal for rock and pop music, while maple shells provide a warm, full-bodied tone that is perfect for jazz and R&B. Walnut shells offer a unique sound that is perfect for a variety of genres, from blues to metal.
Mapex Drum Shells Compared
If you’re trying to decide between birch, maple, or walnut shells, take a look at the following table for a quick comparison:
| Shell Material | Sound Characteristics | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Birch | Bright, focused, punchy | Rock, pop, country |
| Maple | Warm, full-bodied, resonant | Jazz, R&B, funk |
| Walnut | Dark, warm, controlled | Blues, metal, alternative |
No matter which drum shell material you choose, you can be sure that Mapex drums are of the highest quality and built to last. So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, a Mapex drum kit is a great investment in your musical future.
Mapex Drum Customization Options
Mapex drums are renowned for providing musicians with a wide range of customization options. Whether it’s the finish, hardware, or shell material, Mapex has developed a reputation for giving drummers the ability to create the perfect drum kit for their playing style. Here are some of the Mapex customization options:
- Drum Finishes: Mapex offers a variety of finishes, including high-gloss, satin, and more exotic options like burlwood and exotic burl. Drummers can choose from a range of color options to suit their personal preferences.
- Hardware: Mapex offers a range of hardware options, including snare stands, hi-hat stands, and cymbal stands, with various finishes and designs to choose from. They also offer rack systems that allow for easy setup and adjustment of drum components.
- Shell Material: Mapex offers shells made of a variety of materials including maple, birch, walnut, and several hybrid options. The different materials all offer unique sound profiles, so drummers can choose the one that best suits their playing style.
In addition to these customizable physical options, Mapex also offers customization when it comes to sound, with their Sound Concept line of drums. These drums allow for a unique degree of control over their sound, with different bearing edges, reinforcement rings, and shell thicknesses to customize tone and projection.
| Customization Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Drum Finishes | Mapex offers a range of finishes, including high-gloss, satin, and more exotic options like burlwood and exotic burl. Drummers can choose from a variety of color options to suit their personal preferences. |
| Hardware | Mapex offers a range of hardware options, including snare stands, hi-hat stands, and cymbal stands, with various finishes and designs to choose from. They also offer rack systems that allow for easy setup and adjustment of drum components. |
| Shell Material | Mapex offers shells made of a variety of materials including maple, birch, walnut, and several hybrid options. The different materials all offer unique sound profiles, so drummers can choose the one that best suits their playing style. |
| Sound Concept Series | The Sound Concept line of drums allows for a unique degree of control over their sound, with different bearing edges, reinforcement rings, and shell thicknesses to customize tone and projection. |
Overall, the customization options offered by Mapex are extensive. Whether you’re a professional musician looking to create a drum set that is tailored to your specific needs, or a beginner looking for a kit that looks and sounds great, Mapex has a solution that will suit your needs. With their dedication to quality and innovation, it’s easy to see why Mapex is considered one of the top drum brands in the industry.
Is Mapex a good drum brand?
1) What is Mapex?
Mapex is a drum manufacturing company that creates high-quality drum kits, percussion instruments and hardware.
2) Are Mapex drums reliable?
Yes, Mapex drums are known for their durability, reliability and longevity. They are manufactured with high-grade materials and are subject to rigorous quality control.
3) Are Mapex drums easy to play?
Mapex drums are designed with the needs of both beginners and professionals in mind. They have comfortable ergonomic features and are engineered to produce clear, balanced sounds.
4) Are Mapex drums suitable for all drumming styles?
Yes, Mapex drums are versatile and can be used in a wide range of music genres. They are particularly popular in rock, metal and jazz due to their powerful sound and precise tuning.
5) Are Mapex drums expensive?
Mapex drums are priced fairly for their quality and performance. They offer a range of affordable and high-end options to suit different budgets.
6) What is Mapex’s reputation in the drumming industry?
Mapex has a solid reputation in the drumming industry for producing high-quality instruments. They are known for their innovative designs, superior craftsmanship and commitment to customer satisfaction.
7) Where can I buy Mapex drums?
Mapex drums are sold in music stores and online retailers worldwide. You can also purchase Mapex drums directly from their website.
Closing paragraph – Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has helped you to answer the question, “Is Mapex a good drum brand?” Based on our research, Mapex is a reliable and highly-regarded drum manufacturer that produces high-quality drums suitable for all styles of music. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can trust Mapex for their excellent craftsmanship and dedication to customer satisfaction. Thank you for reading and be sure to visit us again for more music-related content.