General
This 4-piece Mapex Saturn shell set finished in sumptuous Satin Black comes in a fusion configuration, meaning the toms and kick drum are slightly smaller. Knowing this, you'll be surprised of the depth and tonal richness this shell set is able to shape and, as Mapex themselves say, this shell set promisingly sounds 'deeper than it should'. The shells feature a hybrid construction and are made of a mix of walnut and maple. In terms of sizes, the toms measure 10 x 8", 12 x 9" and 14 x 14" and each consist of six plies of wood for a total thickness of 5.1mm. The bass drum is a 20 x 16-inch model made up of eight plies for a total thickness of 7.5mm.
Mapex Saturn SONIClear Attenuation System
So, but how does it actually sound? The maple and walnut hybrid shell design allows for a sound with a strong attack without sacrificing any depth, resulting in a rich-but-never-overwhelming sound with a genuinely all-around character. Depending on how you tune your kit, the shells can be used for fusion-based music, jazz-like styles and even hard rock. All of this is in part the consequence of the inclusion of the SAS system, and no, this doesn't have anything to do with the military. Here, SAS stands for SONIClear Attenuation System, which is what Mapex calls the 'collaboration' of the different bits of hardware fitted to the shells. This includes the SONIClear bearing edges, 90-degree floor tom legs and the special rubber feet - all designed to work together and maintain as much resonance as possible.
Air Flow Ventilation
What also adds to the sound and feel of this Mapex Saturn shell set are the Air Flow ventilation holes. To counter any negative effects on the resonance, each shell has its own well-thought-out 'chamber specific' cut-outs. The resulting air flow ensures optimal shell response and to put it simply, makes sure the shells play brilliantly. In addition to the shells, the set also includes a number of accessories such as Remo drum heads, two chrome-plated TH800 tom holders and 2.3mm chrome Mapex Powerhoops.
Tips or comments about this product
- Please note: This product includes 4 shells, shell hardware and tom holders only. The stands, pedals, snare drum, and cymbals seen in the images serve illustrative purposes only and are not included.
