Best Tama Electronic Drum Sets: 3 Models Compared

Quick picks

Our 3 picks

1 Best overall

Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set

Best for: Small rooms and beginners

Pad Count

5-piece

Snare Size

14"

Form Factor

22" bass drum

Dimensions

39.4 × 16.5 × 3.94 inches

Weight

16 pounds

View on Amazon: Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set Affiliate link

This Tama Imperialstar set includes a 22-inch bass drum, 14-inch snare, and 10- and 12-inch toms. It features a 16-inch flo tom and black oak wrap. The frame weighs 16 pounds and measures 39.4 inches long. It suits players who want a standard acoustic layout with electronic triggers. The compact footprint fits smaller rooms while maintaining a full five-piece configuration.

Pros

• Includes a large 22-inch bass drum for realistic feel
• Five-piece layout with 10, 12, and 16-inch toms
• 14-inch snare provides standard playing dimensions
• Lightweight 16-pound frame for easy transport

Cons

• Smaller 16.5-inch width limits pedal space
• Only five pads compared to larger six-piece kits
• No dedicated display for sound settings

Good fit if

• You need a compact kit for small spaces
• You prefer a standard five-piece acoustic layout
• You want a lightweight setup for frequent moves

Skip if

• You require a six-piece configuration with extra cymbals
• You need a wider frame for extensive pedal setups
• You want a kit with built-in sound editing screens

Verdict: Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Electronic Drum Set fits beginners who want a traditional layout without taking up too much floor space.

2 Best budget

Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack

Best for: traditional acoustic-style drummers

Pad Count

5

Form Factor

Acoustic-style shell pack

Piece Count

5-Piece

Dimensions

32.5 × 27.1 × 20.6 inches

Weight

71.5 pounds

View on Amazon: Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack Affiliate link

This Tama Superstar Classic is a 5-piece acoustic-style shell pack in Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade. It includes a snare drum and MTH600 double tom holder. The set measures 32.5 inches long and weighs 71.5 pounds. It suits players seeking a traditional drum kit layout with a specific wood finish.

Pros

• 5-piece configuration includes snare drum
• Acoustic-style shell pack form factor
• Includes MTH600 double tom holder
• Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade finish

Cons

• Heavier at 71.5 pounds
• Larger footprint than compact electronic kits
• No electronic modules or pads included

Good fit if

• You want a traditional acoustic drum layout
• You prefer maple shells with a pine fade finish
• You need a complete shell pack with a snare

Skip if

• You need an all-in-one electronic drum system
• You require a lightweight, portable setup
• You want to play without an external module

Verdict: Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack is a solid choice for drummers who prefer the feel of acoustic shells. It fits those building a hybrid kit or seeking a specific aesthetic.

3 Also great

Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set

Best for: Full 6-piece acoustic shell packs

Pad Count

6-piece

Snare Size

14"

Form Factor

22" bass drum

Dimensions

23.7 × 23.2 × 18.5 inches

Weight

55.9 pounds

View on Amazon: Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set Affiliate link

This Tama Imperialstar kit includes a 22-inch bass drum, 14-inch snare, and two floor toms. It is a 6-piece poplar set with a black oak wrap. The hardware supports a standard layout for practice. It weighs 55.9 pounds and measures 23.7 inches long. This setup suits players who want a full acoustic shell pack for electronic triggers.

Pros

• Includes a 22-inch bass drum for low-end response
• Comes with a 14-inch snare drum
• Features two floor toms (14-inch and 16-inch)
• Constructed with poplar shells for durability

Cons

• Heavier at 55.9 pounds compared to lighter kits
• Larger footprint with a 23.7-inch length
• No app control or digital connectivity listed

Good fit if

• You need a complete 6-piece shell pack
• You prefer a 22-inch bass drum
• You want a standard acoustic setup for e-drums

Skip if

• You require a compact 4-piece layout
• You need wireless connectivity or app support
• You want a lighter kit under 40 pounds

Verdict: Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set is a solid choice for drummers who need a full 6-piece acoustic shell pack to mount electronic pads. It fits players who prioritize a large bass drum and standard tom sizes over portability.

Specifications side by side

Tama Electronic Drum Set Options

The Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set suits small rooms and beginners. It measures 39.4 inches long and weighs just 16 pounds. This compact footprint makes it easy to fit into tight spaces without sacrificing a traditional layout. You get a complete 5-piece configuration in a minimal footprint.

For those preferring acoustic shells, the Superstar Classic and Imperialstar 6-Piece sets offer larger dimensions. The Superstar Classic weighs 71.5 pounds, while the 6-Piece model weighs 55.9 pounds. These heavier units provide a substantial feel for players building hybrid kits or seeking specific aesthetics. Choose based on your space and desired piece count.

Where Tama fits

Tama’s current lineup spans from compact 5-piece kits to larger 6-piece acoustic shell packs. The Imperialstar 5-Piece model is the most portable option, weighing 16 pounds and measuring 39.4 inches long. In contrast, the Superstar Classic Shell Pack is significantly heavier at 71.5 pounds, designed for players who prefer the feel of acoustic shells. The Imperialstar 6-Piece offers a full setup for those prioritizing size over portability. This range suits beginners and traditional drummers. However, the list does not include hybrid kits with mixed acoustic and electronic components or models with specific lighting features. You should check if the available piece counts meet your needs before deciding.

How to Choose the Right Tama Kit

1. Check Your Space Constraints

   Measure your available floor area before buying. The Imperialstar 5-Piece measures 39.4 inches long, making it suitable for small rooms. If you have limited space, this compact footprint is ideal. Larger kits like the Superstar Classic measure 32.5 inches long but require more depth. Always verify your room dimensions against the product length and width to ensure a proper fit without overcrowding.

2. Evaluate Portability Needs

   Consider how often you move your kit. The Imperialstar 5-Piece weighs only 16 pounds, allowing for easy transport. This light weight is beneficial for beginners or those with limited storage. In contrast, the Superstar Classic Shell Pack weighs 71.5 pounds. That significant mass makes it difficult to relocate. Choose a lighter model if you plan to store or move the kit frequently.

3. Match Piece Count to Goals

   Decide between a 5-piece or 6-piece configuration. The Imperialstar 5-Piece offers a traditional layout for beginners. The Imperialstar 6-Piece provides a larger bass drum and standard tom sizes. This 6-piece option is better for players who prioritize a full acoustic feel over portability. Select the piece count that aligns with your desired playing style and practice routine.

4. Assess Weight for Stability

   Heavier kits often provide better stability during vigorous playing. The Superstar Classic Shell Pack weighs 71.5 pounds, offering a solid base. This weight mimics the feel of acoustic drums. Lighter kits like the Imperialstar 5-Piece at 16 pounds may feel less anchored. If you play hard, the heavier shell pack might reduce unwanted movement during your sessions.

5. Verify Physical Dimensions

   Review all three dimensions: length, width, and height. The Imperialstar 5-Piece is 16.5 inches wide and 3.94 inches high. These small dimensions help it fit under tables or in closets. The Superstar Classic is much taller at 20.6 inches. Ensure your storage area can accommodate the height and width of your chosen kit to avoid fitting issues later.

Frequently asked questions

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