SONOR AQ2 Safari Maple 4-Piece Shell Pack Aqua Silver Burst

I bought this for gigging in a blues trio. I opted to only mic the kick drum. The toms and snare needed no mic. I tuned the toms to equal pitch on top and bottom and those things sang! The kick needs no muffling. I actually tune it a little tighter to help with the boom (otherwise it can sound flat). I got several compliments from other musicians on the sound of this kit. The only drawback: I bought this compact kit to make it easier to lug around (I'm getting too old to be gigging!). But the hardware on the kick drum and floor tom create the need for larger-than-the-drum-shell cases. So it kinda cancelled out my goal. If easier/lighter transport is your priority, the go without cases (I don't recommend), choose different cases than the SKB Roto-Xs (great cases but big and bulky), or choose a different kit?

Pro quality kit at a budget price. The tone from the maple shells is warm and buttery. The kick drum packs a powerful punch for its small size. I bought the Avedis Zildjian Sweet Ride cymbal pack and couldn't be happier. SONOR for life!

Received my sonor safari kit the other day and was very pleased. Very minimal tuning required, easy assembly, looks very impressive,(marine pearl). I have already used these in live performance and they project sound with very minimal striking force. Plenty of room on stage with these drums. I have to say these are the best all around drum kit a performing drummer like needs. Thank you Sonor.

From the moment I unpacked the boxes I was impressed by the outstanding quality of the hardware and the shells. Bearing edges are straight and true and professionally finished. All metal hardware is rock solid and substantial. Everything about it says SONOR quality. When I put it together I couldn't believe the sound. If you close your eyes, it sounds like any full sized kit with the one exception of the bass drum. It has a great sound; it just isn't as loud as a 20" or 22" (obviously). I found the center-mounted cymbal arm somewhat impractical for proper placement of my 20" ride cymbal; it's too close for me. I'm going to try using it for a crash cymbal instead and placing my ride on a stand to the right. If all else fails maybe I'll order another 10" rack tom and mount for that side. Still, LOVE the kit. No more back-breaking hauling of a heavy kit to band practice every week. My one and only disappointment is that Sonor does not make a matching set of gig bags. I haven't found any complete sets that are sized correctly for the 16" bass or 13" floor tom.

Amazing Drums that sound fantastic. Hardware is great as well.

This kit is the real deal, if you want a professional sound at a mid-level price... This IS for you. Great tuning range, versatile, top level hardware and great tone and a big sound. Thank you Sonor!!!