Mapex Pro M experience

fryed · #1 (**permalink**) 08-21-2006, 02:44 AM

I'm eyeballing a Mapex Pro M kit and would appreciate any opinions of the series, preferably from experience. One thing I'd really like to know is whether the nonpenetrating bass drum noticeably affects minimum tom-height. I ask b/c I tend to play with the toms pretty low. Also, comment on the birch kit vs. the maple kit if you can. Thanx...

AvengedDrummer · #2 (**permalink**) 08-21-2006, 06:20 PM

Mapex makes solid kits. About the tom thing....I dont know what your budget is, but this Pro M kit has two hanging rack toms, so you can put them as low as you want. Plus, I like the sound of a virgin bass drum.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/produ...Set?sku=449190
And, you get a free set of gig bags for them.

**skinslapper** · #3 (**permalink**) 08-21-2006, 07:39 PM

I agree, the virgin bass thing is definately a plus. by suspending your toms on stands you'll have much better placement capabilities. My toms are off my bass drums and they have mounts.

I've recently looked into the birch vs maple thing. I personally felt that birch was just muffled sounding and maple just was just the sound, but everyone's opinion is different, so get down to your local store and start beating some drums. you'll know find what you like pretty quickly.

fryed · #4 (**permalink**) 08-21-2006, 08:17 PM

Actually, by the nonpenetrating bass drum on the Mapex pro M, I was referring to the isolated tom-mount system that's located on top of the bass drum; it's not a free-hanging tom system. Any new thoughts?

AvengedDrummer · #5 (**permalink**) 08-21-2006, 08:41 PM

I was just suggesting that kit as an alternative....But If your talking about this kit,
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/produ...are?sku=449146

Then you wont be disappointed. Most (and I say most) manufacturers strive for adjustability and quality. My toms are mounted that way, and Im happy. The black panther snare just sweetens the deal too!

fryed · #6 (**permalink**) 08-22-2006, 02:25 AM

Much thanks Avenged.

**skinslapper** · #7 (**permalink**) 08-22-2006, 08:57 AM

Ohh. Okay, now I get ya. The photo at their website doesn't show that thing.

Yeah I wouldn't sweat it. Just go try it out instore before you buy it.

Gooner · #8 (**permalink**) 08-22-2006, 10:50 AM

I have a 6-piece Pro M that I picked up about 5 years ago (once I decided that my starter kit was just cr@p). I like it...The ITS system is kind of nice, but to answer your question, the toms do have to sit a little high since the post doesn't penetrate the bass drum. I'm not the tallest guy in the world (5'7") and initially there was a problem hitting the 2nd tom with my left hand. I have figured out how to adjust the location of the tom on the mount as well as the angle of the mount to bring the tom a few inches closer, and it has made all the difference in the world. I would definitely by the same set again, and certainly recommend getting one if you're considering it. Mapex tends to have a lot of "specials" where they throw in a free tom or upgraded snare, as well.

Mapex4Ever · #9 (**permalink**) 08-31-2006, 08:05 AM

I have owned 3 Pro M kits all in different configurations. The non penetrating tom mount on the Pro M has no effect at all on tom placement. As a matter of fact that neat little mount they came up with is actually a telescoping post!!! It actually is able to be raised right out of itself!!! I played with mine all the way down and didn't notice the telescoping feature until I got my Tobacco Fade Fusion kit!! (the 2nd set) The last kit was a rock kit and it definately rocked. No mount at all on the bass drum as it was 18x24!! You can't go wrong with the Pro M!! 100% Maple shells, and ALOT of booming sound!!!