Mapex Black Panther Design Lab Artist Series Snare Drums – Drummer’s Review

Sister site Drummer’s Review takes a look at a selection of Mapex Black Panther Design Lab Artist Series snare drums, featuring…

Chris Adler ‘Warbird’

*12″ x 5.5″,
*6-ply, 5.1mm hybrid walnut/maple shell,
*satin natural walnut finish with ‘Warbird’ etching,
*Evans Power Centre Reverse Dot Batter over 300 snare side heads.

Mapex says…”Designed by Chris Adler, the new “Warbird” is an optimized version of the original Black Panther model, with a unique 12″ diameter and a Walnut/Maple hybrid shell. This updated version still has a sharp and aggressive attack, with an amazing bite. The new staggered lug design adds an enormously wide tuning range and the Puresound snares gives unparalleled sensitivity, with a dark, punchy and explosive sound.”

Craig Blundell ‘Machine’

*14″ x 5.5″
*6-ply, 6.5mm hybrid walnut/maple shell,
*satin natural walnut finish,
*Aquarian Hi-Energy Batter over Classic Clear snare side.

Mapex says…”Designed by Craig Blundell, the Black Panther Design Lab “Machine” snare, is crafted with a Maple/Walnut shell delivering a warm and modern sound. Special “gated” Equalizer Puresound snares create a unique clarity and the staggered lugs provide a wide tuning range with powerful projection. The Machine articulates a progressive, dynamic sound with a dark punch and drive.”

Jeff Hamilton ‘Maximus’

*14″ x 6″,
*8-ply, 8.3mm mahogany shell,
*gloss piano black finish,
*Remo Fiberskyn Diplomat batter over Hazy Snare Side

Mapex says…“Designed by Jeff Hamilton with a nod to the traditions of the Jazz greats, the “Maximus” has the sound and feel of a vintage drum, built with modern precision and articulation. Made from a 6″ deep, 100% Mahogany shell, it is outfitted with a special snare bed for the execution of the most dynamic playing. It is the choice for a warm, big sound, with the ability to whisper in the most delicate small group settings. Tradition meets a modern voice, the Maximus is a commanding instrument for all forms of playing.”

Russ Miller ‘Versatus’

*4″ x 6.625″ or 14″ x 6.5″,
*7-ply, 8.55mm hybrid maple/mahogany shell,
*Peach Burl Burst finish,
*Remo Fiberskyn Diplomat batter over Hazy Snare Side

Mapex says…“Designed by Russ Miller, the “Versatus” Maple/Mahogany Hybrid shell, offers a “Naturally Pre-Processed” sound with just the right amount of Low-End, articulation and punch. A single SAS Ring on the batter side only, a unique bearing edge combination and the ideal depth/size proportion, all contribute to the perfect balance of strength, functionality, feel and beauty for all playing situations.”

-Music Instrument News