Tama IMPERIALSTAR STAGE 22 DRUM KIT BLACKED OUT BLACK

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

Successfully relaunched in 2006, the Imperialstar series embodies Tama's DNA: offering an accessible, reliable, and coherent drum kit while integrating ideas inspired by higher-end ranges. Within the manufacturer's lineup, it stands as a "ready-to-play" reference, combining well-constructed shells, refined finish, and complete equipment (robust hardware, Iron Cobra 200 pedal, cymbal pack). This approach makes it a particularly reassuring choice to equip a first real set or to have a versatile kit dedicated to rehearsals.

Who This Drum Kit Is For

The Tama Imperialstar Black Wrap Out is aimed at ambitious beginners who want a complete kit without compromising on stability, as well as intermediate drummers looking for an efficient set to practice, record demos, or play small gigs. Its configuration with a 22" x 18" bass drum provides depth and comfortable projection, ideal for rock and pop, while remaining responsive enough for funk, R&B, and modern groove-oriented jazz contexts. Thanks to a wide tuning range, it allows exploration of both tight and precise tunings as well as lower, rounder settings.

Features and Innovations

The Omnisphere mounting system is a key asset: it facilitates ergonomic tom placement and contributes to better shell vibration freedom, useful for achieving more openness and sustain in tuning. The precision bearing edges promote consistent contact with the heads, making tuning easier, more stable, and more musical, even for beginners. On the hardware side, the Stage Master double-braced setup provides a solid foundation, designed to withstand frequent assembly and transport. The Iron Cobra 200 bass drum pedal adds a smooth and controllable striking feel, appreciated for working on consistency, double strokes, and dynamics. Finally, the Black Wrap Out finish combined with Black Nickel hardware and matching wooden bass drum hoops delivers a premium visual look, perfectly suited for stage and studio.

Sound

The poplar shells (6-ply, 8 mm) offer a sought-after sonic signature for their warmth and roundness. You get a generous low end with a medium attack that leaves room for control: practical for working ghost notes, rimshots, and dynamic variations without the kit becoming aggressive. The 8 mm thickness adds durability and a focused feel, helping maintain a clear sound in a band mix, both in rehearsal and amplified settings.

The 22" x 18" bass drum naturally sounds full, with a present low spectrum and projection that easily supports energetic styles. The 10" and 12" toms allow for quick fills, with an interesting balance between precision and roundness, while the 16" x 14" floor tom provides a very effective low foundation for breaks and powerful choruses. The 14" x 5" snare, more snappy and versatile, suits both rock backbeats and more nuanced patterns.

The Meinl HCS cymbal pack completes the set with clear references: a 14" hi-hat with defined "chick" sound for groove playing, a responsive 16" crash for accents, and a 20" ride sufficiently present to hold the tempo. It's a coherent base to build your sound, develop dynamics, and evolve towards more specialized cymbals over time.

Technical specifications

Bass drum	22" x 18" (matching wooden hoops)	Shells	100 percent poplar, 6-ply, 8 mm
Tom tom	10" x 7"	Finish	Black Wrap Out
Floor tom	16" x 14"	Hardware	Black Nickel
Snare drum	14" x 5"	Meinl HCS	14" Hi-Hat, 16" Crash, 20" Ride