Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set vs Tama Superstar Classic CL52KS 5-piece (2026): Key Differences
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This comparison looks at the tama imperialstar complete drum set vs superstar classic cl52ks 5. Both sets come from Tama and use maple or poplar shells for a warm tone. They share a similar acoustic style. The main difference is configuration. The Imperialstar is a full six-piece kit with cymbals. The Superstar Classic is a five-piece shell pack. You need to decide if you want a complete package or just the drums.
Key differences
| Aspect | Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack | Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set |
|---|---|---|
| Configuration | 6-piece set with cymbals | 5-piece shell pack |
| Bass Drum Size | 22" | Not listed |
| Weight | 55.9 pounds | 71.5 pounds |
| Color | Black, silver, white | Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade |
| Dimensions | 23.2 x 18.5 x 23.7 inches | 27.1 x 20.6 x 32.5 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack if
- You want a complete kit with cymbals included
- You prefer a lighter and more compact setup
- You need a 22-inch bass drum for low end
Choose Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set if
- You already own cymbals and hardware
- You want a classic pine fade finish
- You prefer a heavier, traditional shell pack
Verdict: The Imperialstar is better for beginners who need everything in one box. The Superstar Classic suits players who already have hardware and want a specific shell pack. Choose based on whether you need the cymbals or just the drums.
Imperialstar vs Superstar Key Specs
Pad Count
The Tama Superstar Classic CL52KS is a 5-piece shell pack. It includes a snare drum and tom configuration. This setup is designed for players who want a standard acoustic-style arrangement. The Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set offers a 6-piece configuration. It includes a 22-inch bass drum and additional toms. The Imperialstar provides more physical pieces for a larger kit layout. You get an extra drum in the Imperialstar package. The Superstar sticks to a tighter five-piece count. This difference affects how you arrange the drums on your stand or rack.
Form Factor
Both sets follow an acoustic-style design. The Superstar Classic CL52KS uses a maple shell pack format. It mimics the look and feel of traditional acoustic drums. The Imperialstar Complete Drum Set also uses a 22-inch bass drum form factor. It is built as a complete acoustic-style kit. Both products prioritize the traditional drum appearance. Neither set uses a purely electronic module-based form factor. They are designed to look like standard drum kits. This choice appeals to players who prefer the classic aesthetic. The build style is consistent across both Tama models.
Weight
The Tama Superstar Classic CL52KS weighs 71.5 pounds. This heavier weight comes from its maple shell construction and included hardware. The Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set weighs 55.9 pounds. It is significantly lighter than the Superstar Classic. The Imperialstar uses poplar shells, which are lighter than maple. This weight difference matters if you move your kit often. The Superstar is more stable due to its mass. The Imperialstar is easier to transport or adjust. You should consider your setup location and mobility needs when choosing between these two weights.
Dimensions
The Superstar Classic CL52KS measures 32.5 inches in length. It is 27.1 inches wide and 20.6 inches tall. This footprint is larger and more spread out. The Imperialstar Complete Drum Set is more compact. It measures 23.7 inches in length, 23.2 inches in width, and 18.5 inches in height. The Imperialstar takes up less floor space. This makes it suitable for smaller rooms or tighter setups. The Superstar requires more room for its full configuration. You need to measure your space before buying. The Imperialstar offers a smaller physical footprint for your studio.
Color Options
The Tama Superstar Classic CL52KS features a Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade finish. This is a specific wood-grain look that highlights the maple shells. The Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set comes in a Black Oak Wrap. It also includes silver and white accents. The Imperialstar offers a high-contrast black and silver appearance. The Superstar focuses on a natural wood aesthetic. Your choice depends on your visual preference. The Superstar looks more like traditional wood drums. The Imperialstar has a bold, modern black finish. Both finishes are durable and standard for their respective lines.
Which Tama Drum Set Fits You
Drummer needing a full ready-to-play kit
The Imperialstar includes a 22-inch bass drum, 14-inch snare, and cymbals in one package. You get a complete 6-piece configuration with a black oak wrap finish. This setup is ideal if you want to start playing immediately without sourcing additional hardware or cymbals separately. It offers a broader range of drum pieces for a standard setup.
Player wanting a focused 5-piece acoustic style
The Superstar Classic is a 5-piece shell pack with a Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade finish. It focuses on maple shells for a warm tone. You get a snare and tom configuration designed for acoustic-style playing. This choice suits you if you prefer a smaller footprint and plan to add your own cymbals and hardware.
Musician prioritizing lighter weight and compact size
The Imperialstar weighs 55.9 pounds and measures 23.2 inches in width. It is lighter and more compact than the Superstar Classic, which weighs 71.5 pounds. If you need to transport your gear frequently or have limited space, the Imperialstar’s smaller dimensions and lower weight make it the more practical choice for your setup.
The products compared
Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack
Best for: Traditional acoustic drum setups
- 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
The Tama Superstar Classic is a 5-piece acoustic-style shell pack featuring a Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade finish. It includes a snare drum and an MTH600 double tom holder. The package measures 32.5 inches long and weighs 71.5 pounds. You get a standard maple construction with a distinct wood-grain look. This set suits drummers who want a traditional acoustic kit layout without electronic components.
Pros
- 5-piece configuration with included snare drum
- Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade finish
- Includes MTH600 double tom holder
- Maple shell construction
Cons
- Heavier at 71.5 pounds
- Larger footprint than compact electronic kits
- No electronic triggers or connectivity
Good fit if
- You want a traditional acoustic drum layout
- You prefer a maple shell pack
- You need a complete 5-piece setup
Skip if
- You need an electronic drum module
- You require a lightweight portable kit
- You want a 6-piece configuration
Verdict: Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack is a heavy, traditional acoustic kit for players who do not need electronic features.
Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set
Best for: beginners wanting a full acoustic kit
- 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 set includes six pieces: a 22-inch bass drum, 14-inch snare, 14-inch and 16-inch floor toms, plus cymbals. It features a Black Oak wrap. The complete package weighs 55.9 pounds and measures 23.7 inches long. It suits beginners seeking a full acoustic kit. You get all necessary components in one box. The 22-inch bass drum provides standard depth. This configuration is ready for immediate setup.
Pros
- Includes six pieces for a complete setup
- 22-inch bass drum offers standard depth
- Comes with 14-inch snare and floor toms
- Includes cymbals in the package
Cons
- Heavy at 55.9 pounds for portability
- Large footprint requires significant space
- Limited color options to black, silver, or white
Good fit if
- You want a complete acoustic kit
- You need a standard 22-inch bass drum
- You prefer a Black Oak finish
Skip if
- You need a compact electronic set
- You require Bluetooth connectivity
- You want a lighter portable kit
Verdict: Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set is a solid acoustic choice for beginners. It fits players who want a full traditional setup without buying parts separately.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack | Tama Imperialstar 6-Piece Drum Set |
|---|---|---|
| Pad Count | 5 | 6-piece |
| Snare Size | not stated | 14" |
| Form Factor | Acoustic-style shell pack | 22" bass drum |
| Piece Count | 5-Piece | not stated |
| Dimensions | 32.5 × 27.1 × 20.6 inches | 23.7 × 23.2 × 18.5 inches |
| Weight | 71.5 pounds | 55.9 pounds |
| Color | pine fade | black,silver,white |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tama Superstar Classic CL52KS a complete drum set?
No, it is a 5-piece shell pack. It does not include hardware, cymbals, or a throne. You must purchase these items separately to build a full playing setup. This option suits players who already own gear or prefer to mix and match components for their specific needs.
Does the Tama Imperialstar include cymbals and hardware?
Yes, the Imperialstar is a complete 6-piece drum set. It comes with cymbals, hardware, and a throne in one package. This all-in-one configuration is ready to play out of the box, making it a convenient choice for beginners who want a full traditional setup without buying parts separately.
Which kit is heavier, the Imperialstar or the Superstar?
The Tama Superstar Classic is heavier. It weighs 71.5 pounds. The Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set weighs 55.9 pounds. The difference in mass comes from the Superstar being a larger 5-piece shell pack compared to the Imperialstar's 6-piece configuration. Consider your lifting needs when choosing between them.
What finish options are available for these Tama sets?
The Tama Superstar Classic features a pine fade finish. The Tama Imperialstar offers black, silver, and white color choices. These finishes reflect the distinct visual styles of each line. Choose the Imperialstar for multi-color options or the Superstar for a natural wood look.
How do the dimensions of these drum sets compare?
The Superstar Classic measures 32.5 inches in length, 27.1 inches in width, and 20.6 inches in height. The Imperialstar is smaller, measuring 23.7 inches in length, 23.2 inches in width, and 18.5 inches in height. The Imperialstar takes up less floor space, which is useful for smaller rooms.
Is the Tama Superstar Classic good for beginners?
It is a traditional acoustic kit for players who do not need electronic features. It is a heavy, standard 5-piece shell pack. Beginners seeking a full ready-to-play kit might prefer the Imperialstar, which includes all necessary accessories. The Superstar requires additional purchases for a complete setup.
What is the main difference between these two Tama models?
The main difference is configuration and completeness. The Superstar is a 5-piece shell pack focusing on traditional acoustic tone. The Imperialstar is a 6-piece complete set including hardware and cymbals. Choose the Superstar for a core shell collection or the Imperialstar for a comprehensive beginner package.