That's why I wrote this Reason Studios Reason 11 review.
Editor's Rating:With my recent move to an extraordinary commercial recording space, I was finally able to start recording acoustic drums (without the neighbours complaining). Before purchasing my Mapex Tornado, I was recording drums using my MIDI/USB keyboard controller. I couldn’t stand the limitations anymore, so that’s why I decided to purchase what I found to be the best acoustic drum kit for home recording.
After researching many different acoustic drum kits, I found the Mapex Tornado to be the best acoustic drum kit for home recording. Surprisingly, it’s also the most affordable high-quality drum kit on the market and guess what… The bundle includes EVERYTHING you could ever need to get started right out of the box! I didn’t want to invest too much money because it was my first drum kit, but I wanted something I could learn with and that could provide the sound quality I was looking for. From the initial unboxing, I knew I had chosen the right kit and the assembly was so much fun (not as fun as playing it though)! Keep reading to find out more about the Mapex Tornado.
From the moment I opened the box, I knew I was dealing with some high-quality instruments. The packaging was thorough and facilitated transportation (I couldn’t believe that everything fit into two relatively small boxes).
Seriously, I thought the salesman had forgotten to give me a box or something…
To my disbelief though, everything was there (I even got an extra screw)! So, I know you’re dying to know what Mapex has decided to include in this package. Can it really have everything you need to get started right out of the box?
Here’s what you’ll get:
The Mapex Tornado includes more than most other drum kits!
Most drum kits usually include the shells and that’s all. You’d be lucky to receive some cymbals and their appropriate stands with your bundle. Some packages include drum sticks, but I’ve never heard of anyone including the drum throne!
Needless to say, you’ll have everything you need out of the box. I started playing right away!
Well, after assembling the Tornado of course (more on that in the next section)! The only thing Mapex didn’t include was someone to assemble your kit for you, but they did include some basic instructions.
The last thing I want to mention is that the Mapex Tornado is available in different sizes.
I wasn’t aware of this until I actually bought the thing, but stores don’t always have each one. I personally own the “rock” model with the measurements identical to ones I’ve already listed. You can also purchase the “fusion” (20”) and “compact” (18”) models if you can find them.
Being one of the best-selling drum kits, the Mapex Tornado is frequently out of stock!
Okay, let’s talk about the assembly!
I already have acoustic/electric guitar, bass guitar and keyboards under my belt, but drums were completely new to me. Sure, I had been recording drums using my MIDI/USB keyboard controller, but owning an actual drum kit is something else!
In just a few hours, I learned how to…
I’m still figuring things out, but time flies when you’re having fun!
Once you’ve assembled your Mapex Tornado, you’ll completely understand how it works. It may sound crazy to the more experienced drummers in the crowd, but I was overwhelmed. Once I figured out the heads, it wasn’t an issue anymore.
However, it’s the hi-hat stand that gave me the most trouble!
I kind of wish I would’ve recorded the process, but I don’t want to deprive you of the experience. I almost feel like it was necessary… I feel like my Mapex Tornado and I have bonded!
Now, positioning the individual drums is more of a personal thing I guess!
However, I can’t stand seeing rack toms that are slightly tilted. You may think I’m going overboard here, but… I actually used my bubble level to make sure they were perfectly perpendicular to the ground.
I guess it’s not as efficient, but it sure does LOOK COOL!
Lastly, I started fiddling with my snare mostly. I used my wallet to dampen it (that looks cool too) and I never knew that you could adjust the snare’s rattle. So many different sounds!
I personally used this video for tuning…
If it sounds good, I’m happy!
Lastly, the included set of Mapex 200 Series double-braced hardware really gets the job done. My favourite piece is definitely the snare stand. I don’t know if snare stands can usually lock the snare in place using an adjustable clamp-like mechanism, but I like it!
It seems like Mapex spared no expense. I can rest easy knowing my snare will stay where it is!
The ball-socket tom holders are high-quality. However, it makes the job of aligning your toms perpendicular to ground more difficult (okay, that’s just me).
So, is there anything Mapex could improve on this kit?
I literally have NOTHING bad to say about the Mapex Tornado except… It would’ve been nice to have a ride cymbal instead of the 16” crash cymbal. It really doesn’t sound that good anyway.
Some claim it “could” be used as a ride cymbal, but they most probably haven’t used it.
In case you’re wondering, the cymbals are “no brand”. I assume that they’ve been specifically made for the Mapex Tornado. However, I still really dig the 14” hi-hat cymbal they included. It sounds fine to my ears (maybe professional drummers would disagree).
I’m definitely planning to attempt selling that crash cymbal (doubt anyone wants it though) and to purchase my ride cymbal (maybe 22” would be best).
To be honest though, I’ve been preoccupied with the snare exclusively for the past 2 days. I’ve been practicing my ghost-notes for hours, so that ride cymbal will have to wait! So, the terrible crash cymbal isn’t really an issue.
I just wanted to bring it up (maybe Mapex will hear me out)!
I’d prefer having the terrible crash replaced with a terrible ride cymbal.
Before moving on, I also wanted to talk about the kick drum beater. I’m actually glad they included a felt beater instead of the other kind (plastic?) because it gives me that “round” sound I was looking for.
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For those of you looking for more “presence”, you’ll simply need to purchase another beater.
So, I just want to remind you that I’m NOT complaining here. I’m super satisfied with the Mapex Tornado, but I didn’t want you guys to think I was obsessed with it or something… In all seriousness though, it really is a fantastic kit (even without the ride cymbal)!
Before sending you off, I wanted to share my personal recording system for recording drums at home using the Mapex Tornado. It’s actually really cost-effective, but the quality is just as good as the kit you’ll be using (you know which kit I’m talking about).
We’re going to need two things: Microphones & Mixers.
The alternative would be the XENYX 1202FX, but it’s only got four XLR inputs.
Either way, all of these products I’m recommending are incredibly affordable and provide maximum value. You can start recording drums at home for under 1000$ easily!
That being said, I’ll be leaving you with this shopping list…
