Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kits | New model for 2021

The Tama Starclassic Performer drum kit has become a favourite amongst drummers in the past ten or so years. It is easy to see why. You are getting a pro-grade acoustic drum kit for a fraction of the cost when compared to the premium kits. 

Let’s find out how Tama have improved the Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kit for 2021.

What wood is in the 2021 Tama Starclassic Performer?

The 2021 model of the Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kit is a hybrid shell consisting of maple and birch. To be specific:

• Tom toms/ Floor toms/ Snare Drums: 6mm, 4ply Birch + 2 inner ply Maple
• Bass Drum: 7mm, 5ply Birch + 2 inner ply Maple

This combination gives you the warmth of birch with the clarity of maple.

Previous Tama Starclassic kits have used combinations of wood such as bubinga/ birch and walnut/ birch. 

What hardware comes on the 2021 Tama Starclassic Performer?

The hardware the comes on a drum kit can make an undeniable difference to the end sound. Lets have a look at what comes on the Tama Starclassic Performer.

The hoops

The Starclassic performer comes with Tama’s professional line die-cast hoops. These are made from zinc and are formed by injecting the molten metal into moulds. 

Die-cast hoops come with a great range of benefits:

• Easier tuning
• More consistent tuning
• Crisper attack
• Clear resonant sound
• Powerful rim shots 

The mounting system

The Star-Cast Mounting System is what you will find on the 2021 Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kit. This is the go-to choice for all of Tama’s professional kit lines. They offer maximum resonance and stability whilst allowing you more options to place your toms where you want them.

What finishes are available on the 2021 Tama Starclassic Performer?

The 2021 model has four different lacquer finishes available to choose from. All of them are beautiful but there is one standout. Caramel Aurora. It won’t be for everyone but wow, what a finish.

Here are all the finish options available:

• Molten Steel Blue Burst
• Caramel Aurora
• Dark Cherry Fade
• Piano Black

Which one would you pick? Let us know in the comments!

What does the 2021 Tama Starclassic Drum Kit sound like?

So how do Tama describe the kit? Here a quote from them.

offer drummers a complex, powerful and expressive sound

Tama drums

To be honest that is a pretty spot-on description. The Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kits offer you the modern drum sound we all love. A full-bodied tone with punch and dynamics where you need them. 

Here is a great demo of what the drums sound like.

Just incredible.

What configurations does Tama Starclassic Drum Kits come in?

The Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kits come in two standard configurations. A four-piece or a five-piece. Neither of which come with a snare so bear that in mind when purchasing. 

Four Piece Kit (MBS42S w/ Chrome Hardware)

The sizes of this kit are very much that of a traditional drum kit. This kit consists of:

• 10″x8″ Tom Tom
• 12″x9″ Tom Tom
• 16″x”14″ Floor Tom
• 22″x16″ Bass Drum
• Double Tom Holder (Bass Drum Mount)

Five Piece Kit (MBS52RZS w/ Chrome Hardware)

This kit comes with shorter size tom-toms for an even punchier stand. This kit consists of:

• 10″x7″ Tom Tom
• 12″x8″ Tom Tom
• 14″x12″ Floor Tom
• 16″x14″ Floor Tom
• 22″x16″ Bass Drum
• 2 x Single Tom Mounts

Individual Drums

If the preconfigured kits don’t meet your tastes you can also order individual tom-toms, floors toms, bass drums and snare drums. These can be used to enhance one of the preconfigured kits or to create something truly unique. 

Bass Drums

Model	Diameter	Depth
MBSB18RM/Z	18″	14″
MBSB20RM/Z	20″	14″
MBSB22DM/Z	22″	16″
MBSB22EM/Z	22″	18″
MBSB24DM/Z	24″	16″

Floor Toms

Model	Diameter	Depth
MBSF14A	14″	12″
MBSF14D	14″	14″
MBSF16A	16″	14″
MBSF18D	18″	16″

Tom Toms

Model	Diameter	Depth
MBST8H	8″	6″
MBST8A	8″	7″
MBST10R	10″	7″
MBST10A	10″	8″
MBST12R	12″	8″
MBST12A	12″	9″
MBST13R	13″	9″
MBST13A	13″	10″
MBST14R	14″	10″
MBST14A	14″	11″

Snare Drums

Model	Diameter	Depth
MBSS55	14″	5.5″
MBSS65	14″	6.5″

Why is the Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kit so cheap?

There is no doubt that with the Tama Straclassic Performer you are getting a lot of bang for your buck. There are still some differences between the Tama Starclassic Performer and the more expensive Tama STAR kits.

The main differences are:

• The wood of the STAR lines is just one material and don’t use any form of hybrid.
•  The shells on the STAR range feature a unique and more complex bearing edge shape.
• The hardware on the STAR range features the latest Tama patent technology.

All of these differences lead to a drum the costs more to make due to the time-consuming shells and more expensive hardware. 

All this doesn’t mean you aren’t getting a professional level kit with the Tama Starclassic Performer. Far from it. Tama is always pushing the boundaries with there kits and much like with technology, you pay a premium for the latest innovations.

Where can I buy a Tama Starclassic Performer Drum Kit?

You can get purchase the Tama Starclassic Performer from you local drum store that suppliers Tama. Or if you are looking to order online, here are our recommended websites.

OR have a look on Gear4music

Frequently asked questions

What are our thoughts? 

If you are looking for a professional sounding acoustic drum kit at a good price the Tama Starclassic Performer is a great choice. You are getting an amazing sounding kit with the premium price you get on the very top range kits. 

It is easy to see why it has become a favourite among so many professional drummers, such as the incredible Anup Sastry.

The Tama Starclassic Performer drum kit is renowned for delivering exceptional kits with undeniable value. The 2021 version certainly continues the reputation. 

If you are looking for an alternative kit at this price point, check out the DW Design Series or the Pearl Session Studio Select.