Mapex Mars Maple Jazz 18 Matte Black

Historical context and position in the range

The Mars series is designed to offer birch shells with a modern approach to tuning and resonance. With this Mars Birch configuration, Mapex focuses on shallow shells and solutions inspired by higher-end series, notably the SONIClear tom suspension, presented as originating from the Saturn series. The result is an acoustic drum kit offering a highly balanced performance-to-practicality ratio, with a precise and powerful sonic identity.

Who this drum kit is for

This configuration is particularly suited to beginner to intermediate drummers looking for a genuine birch sound that is easy to tune and versatile for everyday use. Its compact format is ideal for musicians who travel frequently, studios with limited space, or bands playing in clubs. It adapts very well to styles where clarity is paramount: pop, rock, funk, gospel, contemporary music and live situations with microphones, where the attack and definition of birch make all the difference.

Features and innovations

At the heart of this Mars Birch are 6-ply birch shells (7.2 mm) and the SONIClear bearing edge, designed to improve the contact between the drumhead and the edge of the shell. In practical terms, the drumhead sits flatter, contact is more consistent, and tuning is more even and effortless, with a stronger fundamental tone. The SONIClear tom suspension limits energy transfer to the hardware, allowing the shell and drumheads to vibrate more freely, which enhances the overall resonance and sense of openness.

The sound

Birch is renowned for its crisp attack, controlled low end and clear highs. On an acoustic drum kit, this translates into highly articulate toms, effective projection and an immediate response, particularly valuable in a band setting. The shallow shells contribute to a punchy, precise feel, while the SONIClear bearing edges promote a deeper fundamental and more controlled sustain.

With the 18-inch bass drum, you get a compact, dynamic low end: enough body to carry a groove while retaining clear articulation. This is an ideal format for combining easy transport, quick setup and a "ready-to-play" sound in a variety of contexts.

Technical specifications

Category	jazzette	Tom 1	12" x 7"
Cymbals included	No	Bass tom 1	14" x 12"
Material	maple	Circle type	pressed
Design	6-ply	Accessories included	No
Snare drum	14"x5	Color	Natural
Bass drum	18" x 14"	Hardware	Chromed

Construction	6-ply	Tom suspension	SONIClear (rack toms)
Thickness	7.2 mm	Principle	preserves head and shell vibrations while limiting energy transfer to the hardware
Format	shallow shells	Tom mounts	mounted on the bass drum (depending on configuration)
Bearing edge	SONIClear	Tom	10" x 7"
Benefits	easier, more consistent tuning, stronger and deeper fundamental, extended tuning range	Floor tom	14" x 12"