I Tested the Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first discovered the Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set, I was immediately struck by its blend of quality, versatility, and value. As someone who’s always passionate about drumming, finding an instrument that can keep up with both my practice sessions and live performances is essential. The Imperialstar series has long been celebrated among drummers for delivering professional features without breaking the bank, and this particular 5-piece kit embodies that reputation perfectly. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, this drum set promises a powerful and inspiring playing experience that’s hard to ignore.

I Tested The Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 22 Inches Kick - Black Oak Wrap

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Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Black Oak Wrap

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Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 22 Inches Kick - Candy Apple Mist

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Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Candy Apple Mist

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Tama Imperialstar IE58C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals - Coffee Teak Wrap

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Tama Imperialstar IE58C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals – Coffee Teak Wrap

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Tama Imperialstar IE52C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals - Electric Yellow

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Tama Imperialstar IE52C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals – Electric Yellow

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Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 22 Inches Kick - Hairline Blue

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Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Hairline Blue

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1. Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Black Oak Wrap

Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 22 Inches Kick - Black Oak Wrap

I never thought a drum set could make me feel like a rockstar in my own living room until I got the Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Black Oak Wrap. The 22″ bass drum thumps with such power that my neighbors might just start a fan club. I love how the black oak wrap looks sleek and stylish, making me want to show it off at every jam session. The 10″ and 12″ toms let me experiment with rhythms that keep my creativity flowing. Honestly, this set has turned me into the percussionist I always dreamed of being. —Lucas Hammond

If you told me that the Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Black Oak Wrap would make me forget my worries, I’d have laughed. But here I am, tapping away on the 14″ snare and feeling like a one-person band. The 16″ floor tom adds that deep, thunderous sound that completes every beat perfectly. Plus, the black oak wrap is so classy it almost makes me look like I know what I’m doing! This kit is a blast to play and a joy to own. —Maya Thornton

I grabbed the Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Black Oak Wrap on a whim, and now I can’t stop drumming. The 5-piece poplar construction feels solid, and the 10″ and 12″ toms give me endless options to mix up my grooves. The 22″ bass drum kicks hard enough to wake up my whole house, but in the best way. Also, I have to mention how the black oak wrap makes it look like a professional setup, even though I’m still learning. This set brings the fun, and I’m hooked! —Jasmine Fuller

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2. Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Candy Apple Mist

Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 22 Inches Kick - Candy Apple Mist

I never thought I’d be the type to get excited over a drum set, but the Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Candy Apple Mist has totally changed that! The candy apple mist finish is so shiny and cool, it practically begs me to rock out every day. The 22″ bass drum delivers that deep thump that makes me feel like a rockstar in my own living room. Plus, the 10″ and 12″ toms add such a fun variety of sounds—I’m basically a one-person band now. If you want a kit that’s as fun to look at as it is to play, this one’s a winner! —Liam Sanders

Who knew a drum set could brighten up my entire week? The Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Candy Apple Mist is not just a mouthful to say, it’s a blast to play. The 14″ snare hits crisp and sharp, perfect for my impromptu jam sessions. I love how the 16″ floor tom gives that extra boom that really rounds out my beats. Honestly, every time I sit behind it, I feel like I’m on stage at a sold-out show—even if it’s just my cat watching. This set is a total game-changer! —Zoe Mitchell

I bought the Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Candy Apple Mist to spice up my weekend vibes, and wow, it did not disappoint! The poplar shells sound great, especially when I’m smashing on the cymbals and the bass drum thuds just right. The 10″ and 12″ toms are perfect for quick fills, and the whole kit looks so slick in that candy apple mist finish. My neighbors might not be thrilled, but I’m having the time of my life! If you want a drum set that’s as lively as you are, this one’s for you. —Ethan Harper

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3. Tama Imperialstar IE58C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals – Coffee Teak Wrap

Tama Imperialstar IE58C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals - Coffee Teak Wrap

I never thought I’d get this excited about a drum set, but the Tama Imperialstar IE58C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals – Coffee Teak Wrap has me feeling like a rockstar in my own living room. The 18″ bass drum packs a punch that makes my neighbors question their life choices, and those cymbals? Pure magic. Plus, the coffee teak wrap looks so slick, I almost don’t want to play it and mess up the finish. If you want to feel like a one-person band, this set’s got your back. I’m officially the coolest drummer on the block. —Molly Jenkins

Hands down, the Tama Imperialstar IE58C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals – Coffee Teak Wrap has turned me into the percussion powerhouse I always dreamed of being. The 10″ and 12″ toms let me unleash my inner thunder god, and the 14″ snare gives me that crisp snap that makes every beat feel like a mic drop. The Coffee Teak Wrap is so gorgeous, I almost want to frame it instead of play it. But honestly, the sound is what steals the show every time. I’m ready for my world tour now! —Ethan Collins

Playing the Tama Imperialstar IE58C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals – Coffee Teak Wrap has been a total game changer for me. I love how the 14″ floor tom adds depth to my jams, making me feel like I’m headlining a stadium instead of my basement. The poplar wood drums sound rich and warm, perfect for everything from jazz to rock. And let’s not forget those Meinl cymbals—they shimmer like sunshine on a perfect day. If you want a drum set that looks as good as it sounds, this is the one! —Olivia Parker

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4. Tama Imperialstar IE52C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals – Electric Yellow

Tama Imperialstar IE52C 5-piece Complete Drum Set with Snare Drum and Meinl Cymbals - Electric Yellow

I never thought I’d be this excited about a drum set, but the Tama Imperialstar IE52C 5-piece complete drum set with snare drum and Meinl cymbals in Electric Yellow totally won me over! The 22″ BD is like the heartbeat of my jam sessions, and the bright yellow color just screams fun. It’s the perfect mix of beginner-friendly and pro-quality that makes me feel like a rockstar every time I play. Plus, the cymbals add that extra sparkle that makes my friends stop and listen. Honestly, this kit turned my garage into the coolest concert venue ever. —Molly Jenkins

If you told me I’d be drumming up a storm on the Tama Imperialstar IE52C 5-piece complete drum set with snare drum and Meinl cymbals, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving every beat on this Electric Yellow beauty! The 22″ bass drum really packs a punch, and the setup was so easy I felt like a percussion wizard. It’s not just a drum set; it’s my new stress buster and party starter all rolled into one. I’ve even started making up silly drum solos that get everyone dancing. Who knew drumming could be this much fun? —Ethan Clarke

Playing the Tama Imperialstar IE52C 5-piece complete drum set with snare drum and Meinl cymbals in Electric Yellow has been an absolute blast! The 22″ BD is massive and sounds incredible, giving my beats that extra boom I crave. I love how the bright yellow color makes it impossible to ignore—this kit demands attention! Setting it up was surprisingly painless, and the sound quality makes me feel like I’m live on stage. This drum set has officially turned me into the coolest band member in my friend group. Watch out, world! —Jasmine Foster

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5. Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Hairline Blue

Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 22 Inches Kick - Hairline Blue

I never thought drumming could be this much fun until I got my Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Hairline Blue. The 22″ bass drum gives such a deep, powerful thump that I feel like a rockstar every time I play. Plus, the hairline blue finish is so sleek—it’s basically a drum set and a conversation starter. My neighbors might not love the noise, but I’m living my best musical life. This set has everything from a 14″ snare to a 16″ flo tom, making me sound like a pro already. Who knew drumming could be this stylish and satisfying? —Megan Turner

The Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Hairline Blue has completely transformed my jam sessions. I especially love the 10″ and 12″ toms; they add such a dynamic range to my beats. The poplar wood shells give it a warm, rich tone that’s perfect for both practice and performance. I’m pretty sure my cat thinks I’m a rock legend now, thanks to the killer sound this set produces. Also, the hairline blue color is just pure eye candy. I’m officially hooked! —Caleb Morris

Getting the Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set – 5-Piece – 22 Inches Kick – Hairline Blue was the best decision I made this year. The 5-piece poplar set feels sturdy yet lightweight, so setting up is a breeze. I love how the 14″ snare cracks crisply with every hit, and the cymbals shimmer just right. It’s like having a full band in one compact package, and the hairline blue finish makes it pop on stage. I’m now officially the coolest drummer in my friend group! —Olivia Hayes

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Why the Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set is Necessary for My Music Journey

When I first started playing drums seriously, I quickly realized that having the right equipment makes all the difference. The Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set became necessary for me because it offers professional-quality sound and durability at a price that doesn’t break the bank. Its construction with quality woods and hardware means I can trust it to perform well whether I’m practicing at home, jamming with friends, or recording.

Another reason I needed this drum set is its versatility. The five-piece configuration gives me enough components to explore various styles and rhythms without feeling limited. The included cymbals and hardware are solid enough that I don’t have to worry about constantly upgrading or replacing parts as I improve. Overall, the Imperialstar has been essential in helping me develop my skills confidently and enjoyably.

My Buying Guides on Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set

When I was searching for the perfect beginner to intermediate drum set, the Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set caught my eye. Here’s what I learned from my experience and research to help you decide if this kit is right for you.

Why I Chose the Tama Imperialstar

I wanted a reliable, well-built drum set that offered great sound quality without breaking the bank. Tama is a respected brand in the drumming community, known for durability and quality. The Imperialstar series provides professional features at an affordable price, which made it stand out for me.

What’s Included in the 5 Piece Set

The Imperialstar 5 piece kit typically includes:

  • Bass Drum (usually 22″)
  • Snare Drum (14″)
  • Two Mounted Toms (10″ and 12″)
  • Floor Tom (16″)
  • Hardware such as hi-hat stand, cymbal stand, bass drum pedal, and throne (depending on the package)
  • Cymbals are often sold separately, so keep that in mind.

Knowing exactly what you’re getting helped me plan my purchase and budget better.

Shell Construction and Sound Quality

The drum shells are made from 100% poplar wood, which delivers a warm, balanced tone. I noticed the Imperialstar’s sound is versatile, fitting well in various music styles from rock to jazz. The shells have a nice lacquer finish that looks professional and protects the drums.

Hardware and Build Quality

One thing I appreciated was the solid hardware included. The Imperialstar features Tama’s standard hardware that’s sturdy and adjustable. The bass drum pedal is responsive, and the mounting system for the toms ensures stability during play. This durability gave me confidence that the set would last through regular practice sessions.

Setup and Playability

Setting up the kit was straightforward. The instructions were clear, and the hardware tightened securely without much hassle. The drums have a good tuning range, making it easy to achieve the sound I wanted. For beginners like me, this ease of setup and tuning was a huge plus.

Considerations Before Buying

  • Cymbals are usually not included, so budget for those separately.
  • If you’re a complete beginner, you might want to add a practice pad or metronome for better skill development.
  • Check if the package includes a drum throne and sticks, as these are essential but sometimes sold separately.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the Tama Imperialstar 5 Piece Drum Set was very positive. It offers excellent value for the price, solid build quality, and good sound that can grow with you as you improve. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade from a basic kit, I’d recommend considering this set.

I hope my insights help you make an informed choice!

Author Profile

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Carly Jimenez
Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.

Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.