TAMA Japan Starclassic Performer 14x5.5 SWS55 Birch Snare in Liquid Metal 2001
Oh snap, what a lovely snare. With TAMA introducing the Starclassic as their new flagship kit at the end of the 90s, a ton of great gear followed. Starclassics have always been consistently good, whether kits or just snares. We've enjoyed having this example in the shop. You can feel the build quality when simply picking it up. The MSL-SCT Starclassic lugs are solid and sturdy. Each tension rod has two washers – one steel and one plastic – we assume for tuning stability and smooth tensioning. We have a beefy birch shell with 8 1mm plies. The thicker shell gives it more focus and projection. Combine this with the diecast hoops that give a thick fundamental and focused attack, and you get a rock snare with a big thick crack and a meaty thump. There is still plenty of articulation and sensitivity on tap which makes for a dynamic snare that really comes back at you when you dig in. The cool discontinued Liquid Metal finish is a win too!
Manufacturer: TAMA Drums
Series: Starclassic Performer
Model: SWS55 Birch Snare in Liquid Metal (LQM)
Made: Japan, 1999-2003 approx.
Serial: 074057
Dimensions: 14" Diameter / 5.5" Depth
Weight: 3825g
Shell: 8 ply, 8mm birch, 45 bearing edges
Hardware: 16 MSL-SCT Starclassic Lugs
Strainer/butt: MUS30A/MUS30B
Hoops: Star-Cast Diecast Hoops
Current Setup:
Batter: NEW Remo Coated Emperor (10/10)
Reso: Remo Ambassador Snare (7/10)
Wires: NEW Puresound 20 Strand Wires (10/10)
Additional Notes: The throw is smooth and doesn't get stuck. The snare wires and batter head have been replaced. The snare side head has plenty of life left. There is some light surface damage on the hardware and shell has a few scuffs and patches of what seems to be residue from tape. The finish looks good. Overall: very good condition (7/10)