TAMA Japan Starclassic Performer 14x5.5 SWS55 Snare in Violet (VLT)

A lovely 1990s Tama Starclassic snare in Violet. The shell and hardware is in excellent condition, with the snare strainer still as smooth and solid as the day I bought it. The MSL-SCT Starclassic lugs are solid and sturdy and each tension rod has two washers – one steel and one plastic – for tuning stability and smooth tensioning. I replaced one of the lug screws (pictured) since the screw head hollowed out when I was removing the lugs for cleaning and servicing.

It is supplied with Evans HD Dry head on top and an Evans 300 snare head on the bottom. I have also replaced the snare wires with a PureSound quick release set, because they make every snare I have sound better. There is a quick video demonstrating the sound of the snare, the snare weight damper I use IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE SALE.

It's supplied with original StarCast hoops, these are showing their age a little with some pitting, and some spots of rust on the top hoop, as pictured.

I don't remember exactly when I bought this, but it must have been late 1999 since it was my main snare when touring throughout 2000. Selling because I simply have too many snares now, and it's not healthy.

From the 1998 Tama brochure:

Tama's Starclassic Starclassic Performer Series features shells of Japanese basswood with inner and outer plies of birch. The Japanese basswood used in the Performer Series is a variety indigenous to the Hidaka district of Hokkaido, the northernmost of the four main islands of Japan. It has a sound completely fifferent from maple or birch: very loud, open and powerful (but not overwhelming). Japanese basswood's tonal power is also very well balanced thanks to a clear sustain and mellow attack.

8ply / 6mm shell thickness

With original zinc die-cast StarCast hoops.

Manufacturer: TAMA Drums
Series: Starclassic Performer
Model: SWS55 Birch Snare in Violet (VLT)
Made: Japan, 1999
Serial: 01744
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