Tama Superstar Classic CL52KS 5-piece vs Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set: Spec Comparison
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You are looking at the tama superstar classic cl52ks 5 piece vs imperialstar complete drum comparison. Both sets offer a five-piece configuration for your setup. The Imperialstar includes cymbals and hardware in its package, making it an all-in-one solution. The Superstar Classic is a shell pack only. It focuses on the drums themselves without extra accessories. You need to decide which format fits your current gear and space.
Key differences
| Aspect | Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set | Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | 22" bass drum | Acoustic-style shell pack |
| Shell Material | Poplar | Maple |
| Included Accessories | Cymbals | Double Tom Holder |
| Weight | 16 pounds | 71.5 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set if
- You want a complete kit with cymbals included in the box.
- You prefer a lighter package that is easier to move.
- You are starting from scratch and need everything in one purchase.
Choose Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack if
- You already own cymbals and hardware and only need shells.
- You prefer maple shells for their specific tonal qualities.
- You want a double tom holder included with your purchase.
Verdict: The Imperialstar suits beginners who need a full kit with cymbals. The Superstar Classic is better for drummers who already have hardware and want quality maple shells. Choose based on what you already own.
Tama Superstar Classic vs Imperialstar Specs
Form factor
The Tama Imperialstar is a complete drum set designed for immediate play. It includes a 22-inch bass drum, 10-inch and 12-inch toms, a 16-inch floor tom, and a 14-inch snare. This configuration provides a full acoustic-style layout right out of the box. The Tama Superstar Classic is a shell pack. It contains the drums but excludes hardware and cymbals. You must source these items separately. The Imperialstar offers a ready-to-play experience. The Superstar Classic allows you to choose your own hardware and cymbals for a custom setup. Choose the Imperialstar for convenience. Choose the Superstar Classic for customization.
Included accessories
Package contents differ significantly between these two options. The Imperialstar Complete Drum Set includes cymbals and hardware as part of the package. This makes it an all-in-one solution for beginners or those wanting a complete setup without extra purchases. The Superstar Classic is a shell pack. It includes the drums and a snare drum. It also includes an MTH600 Double Tom Holder. You do not get cymbals or other hardware with this set. You must buy those items separately. If you want everything in one box, the Imperialstar is the clear choice. If you already have hardware, the Superstar Classic is sufficient.
Drum material
The shell material affects the sound and durability of your drum set. The Imperialstar features a poplar drum set. Poplar is a common wood for entry-level kits. It offers a balanced tone suitable for practice and small performances. The Superstar Classic uses a maple shell pack. Maple is known for its warm tones and rich resonance. It is often preferred for its versatility across different musical styles. The choice depends on your sonic preference. Poplar provides a standard, reliable sound. Maple offers a warmer, more professional tone. Both materials are solid for their respective price points.
Weight
Shipping and setup weight are practical concerns for many buyers. The Imperialstar weighs 16 pounds. This is a lighter package, making it easier to transport and set up. The Superstar Classic weighs 71.5 pounds. This is significantly heavier due to the maple shells and the inclusion of the double tom holder. The extra weight may make transportation more difficult. It also suggests a more robust construction. The Imperialstar is easier to move. The Superstar Classic is built for stability and density. Consider your lifting capacity and transport needs when choosing between these two sets.
Dimensions
The physical size of the packaging matters for storage and shipping. The Imperialstar has a length of 39.4 inches, a width of 16.5 inches, and a height of 3.94 inches. This long, flat box is typical for complete drum sets. The Superstar Classic has a length of 32.5 inches, a width of 27.1 inches, and a height of 20.6 inches. This box is bulkier and taller. It takes up more vertical space. The Imperialstar fits more easily into standard car trunks. The Superstar Classic requires more careful handling and storage space. Both sets are manageable, but the Imperialstar is more compact in its shipping form.
Which drum set fits your needs
Beginners wanting a ready-to-play kit
The Imperialstar is a complete package. It includes a 22-inch bass drum, 10-inch and 12-inch toms, a 16-inch floor tom, and a 14-inch snare. You get cymbals and hardware in the box. This setup allows you to start playing immediately without buying extra parts. The black oak wrap gives it a classic look.
Drummers preferring maple shells and snare
The Superstar Classic uses maple shells for a different sound profile. It comes with a snare drum, the MTH600 double tom holder, and a Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade finish. This shell pack focuses on core drums. You will need to source your own cymbals and hardware separately for a full setup.
Users with limited storage space
Portability matters if you have small rooms. The Imperialstar weighs 16 pounds. Its dimensions are 39.4 inches long, 16.5 inches wide, and 3.94 inches high. These compact measurements make it easier to store or transport compared to heavier acoustic-style packs. You can move it with less effort.
The products compared
Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set
Best for: Acoustic players needing a full 5-piece kit
- 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
The Tama Imperialstar is a 5-piece acoustic drum set featuring a 22-inch bass drum and a 14-inch snare. It includes 10-inch and 12-inch mounted toms, plus a 16-inch floor tom. The package comes with cymbals and uses a black oak wrap finish. This setup offers a complete acoustic kit for players who need a full range of drums without electronic components.
Pros
- Includes a large 22-inch bass drum for deep low-end response
- Comes as a complete 5-piece set with cymbals included
- Features a versatile 16-inch floor tom for extended range
- Standard 14-inch snare drum size for broad compatibility
Cons
- Limited to acoustic construction with no electronic triggering
- Heavier build at 16 pounds compared to lighter kits
- No included hardware stand specifications listed in data
Good fit if
- You want a full acoustic kit with cymbals included
- You need a large 22-inch bass drum for low frequencies
- You prefer traditional black oak wrap aesthetics
Skip if
- You require electronic drum pads for silent practice
- You need a compact set under 16 pounds
- You are looking for a 5-piece electronic drum module
Verdict: Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set provides a complete acoustic experience with a large 22-inch bass drum and included cymbals, making it ideal for players seeking a traditional full-range setup.
Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack
Best for: Traditional acoustic-style 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 CL52KS is a 5-piece acoustic-style shell pack featuring a snare drum and double tom holder. It measures 32.5 inches long and weighs 71.5 pounds. The finish is Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade. This setup suits drummers who prefer traditional acoustic configurations. It offers a standard footprint for home or studio use. You get a complete core kit ready for expansion.
Pros
- Includes a 5-piece shell pack with snare drum
- Features an MTH600 double tom holder
- Acoustic-style form factor for traditional feel
- Caribbean Lacebark Pine Fade finish
Cons
- Heavier at 71.5 pounds compared to lighter electronic kits
- Larger footprint at 32.5 inches long
- No electronic connectivity specs listed
Good fit if
- You want a traditional acoustic-style drum setup
- You need a complete 5-piece shell pack
- You prefer a classic finish option
Skip if
- You need a fully electronic drum module
- You require a compact travel kit
- You want built-in Bluetooth connectivity
Verdict: Tama Superstar Classic CL52KS 5-Piece Drum Set is a solid choice for drummers seeking a traditional acoustic-style core kit. It fits those who value classic hardware and shell configurations over electronic features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Tama Imperialstar 5-Piece Drum Set | Tama Superstar Classic 5-Piece Shell Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Pad Count | 5-piece | 5 |
| Snare Size | 14" | not stated |
| Form Factor | 22" bass drum | Acoustic-style shell pack |
| Piece Count | 5-Piece | 5-Piece |
| Dimensions | 39.4 × 16.5 × 3.94 inches | 32.5 × 27.1 × 20.6 inches |
| Weight | 16 pounds | 71.5 pounds |
| Color | Silver,Black | pine fade |
| Model | IE52CBOW | not stated |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Tama Imperialstar come with cymbals included?
Yes, the Imperialstar is a complete drum set that includes cymbals. This makes it an all-in-one solution for players who want a traditional full-range setup without buying separate components. You receive a ready-to-play kit with hardware and cymbals in the box.
What is the weight difference between the two kits?
The Imperialstar weighs 16 pounds, while the Superstar Classic shell pack is significantly heavier at 71.5 pounds. This difference reflects the inclusion of hardware and cymbals in the Imperialstar package. The Superstar Classic focuses solely on the shells, resulting in a lighter core component list.
Are both sets available in five-piece configurations?
Yes, both the Tama Superstar Classic and the Imperialstar are five-piece drum sets. They share the same piece count, offering a standard layout for your drumming needs. This consistency allows you to compare features like shell materials and included accessories directly.
What color options are available for these Tama sets?
The Imperialstar is available in Silver and Black finishes. The Superstar Classic features a pine fade color. These distinct visual styles allow you to choose a look that matches your room decor or personal aesthetic preference while maintaining professional acoustic quality.
Is the Imperialstar suitable for beginners needing a full kit?
Yes, the Imperialstar is ideal for beginners needing a full kit. It provides a complete acoustic experience with a large 22-inch bass drum and included cymbals. This setup removes the guesswork of sourcing individual parts, making it a practical choice for starting out.
Does the Superstar Classic include hardware and cymbals?
No, the Superstar Classic is a shell pack. It is designed for drummers seeking a traditional acoustic-style core kit without included accessories. You must purchase hardware and cymbals separately. This option suits players who already own stands or prefer to select their own gear.