The development of Starclassic in maple, birch, bubinga, birch/bubinga continues. After intensive analysis, rigorous research, development and product testing, TAMA has arrived at the latest modern development of Starclassic, the Starclassic Walnut/Birch. TAMA discovered the perfect ratio of Walnut and Birch, which produced a superior quality of warmth in the low to mid frequency range, perfectly harmonizing with the clear attack and high frequency projection of Birch. The sound is familiar, but clearly different from TAMA sounds of the past. The TAMA-Starclassic series, is still an expression of our collective passion and wisdom in drum building, as well as the striving to offer refined and differentiated sounds. The TAMA-Starclassic Walnut/Birch defines our commitment to developing drum sounds and inspiring the contemporary drummer. The shape of the edge is one of the most important factors which affect drum sound. Because the drumheads provide the important source of vibration, the shape of the contact point of the head and shell determines and defines the sound. This is why TAMA has worked so extensively on achieving the most functional shape for the drum head and edge. Picture shows a sectional view of the drum's bearing edge. As shown in Part A, the angle of the top edge is set 2.5mm inside from the outer surface of the shell. The edge is cut to a round collar so as to follow the natural shape of the drumhead (B). This design, which creates a better fit between the drumhead and bearing edge, maximizes the resonance of drum.This bearing edge shape is part of our TAMA tradition and is crucial in providing TAMA's unique drum sound. TT/FT/SD: 6mm, 4ply Birch + 2 inner ply American Black Walnut BD: 8mm, 5ply Birch + 2 inner ply American Black Walnut The hybrid shell exhibits the focused attack of birch paired with the firm and warm of Walnut. This sound is not only punchy, but sweet and mellow. When you beat the drums once, excellent tone is surround you. The Walnut/Birch hybrid shell will make your drum life state of the art. Made of die-cast zinc, TAMA's die-cast hoops deliver an incredibly sharp, solid rim shot that cannot be found in any other hoop.