Mapex Black Panther Blaster toms are created with thin traditional 5.1mm American maple shells, 3.4mm walnut reinforcing rings, and 5:5 bearing edges with a rounded back cut. This "sound shaping" process produces an extremely focused explosive maple sound with a beautiful dark walnut undertone. Traditional thin maple shells are known for their warm, explosive sound. Adding a partial walnut inner shell focuses the overall sound and adds a rich dark undertone to the maple. The 5:5 rounded bearing edge places the head contact point in the middle of the shell, making for a perfect balance between head sound, shell vibration and overall volume and resonance. The Mapex Sonic Saver™ hoop is another important ingredient to the Black Panther drum's overall sound. The shape of the hoop helps further focus the overall sound. Additionally, the hoop's unique shaping process creates a profile that reduces wear and tear to both sticks and hands while dramatically enhancing the response and feel of every rimshot. The 2.3mm Sonic Saver™ hoop successfully bridges the gap between flanged and die cast hoops.