Classic Slingerland style and tone, reimagined for modern drummers.
A true American original, the Slingerland Drum Company helped define the sound of golden-age jazz, swing and rock ‘n’ rolland now, it’s back to inspire a whole new generation of drummers. The Slingerland Radio King 4-piece is a faithful recreation of one of the most iconic kits of the 20th century, uniting period-correct craftsmanship with modern playability. First launched in the 1930s and made famous by jazz greats like Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich, the Radio King quickly became the gold standard of American drum designand has since ascended to legendary status. This reissue carries that tradition forward with a compact yet powerful setup: an 18″ x 14″ bass drum, 12″ x 8″ tom, 14″ x 14″ floor tom and a 14″ x 5.5″ snare. Outfitted with elegant nickel-plated hardware, Stick Saver hoops, built-in tone control mufflers and a re-tooled Zoomatic throw-off, this vintage-inspired shell pack offers timeless tone with contemporary reliability.
Three-Ply Mahogany/Poplar Shells With Maple Reinforcement Rings
At the heart of the Radio King reissue are its three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shells, handcrafted in Oxnard, California. This classic formula produces a warm, resonant voice with buttery stick response, perfectly suited for styles ranging from smoky jazz to punchy rock backbeats. Each shell is finished with 30-degree rounded bearing edges, enhancing warmth while maintaining articulate stick definition. Reinforced with steam-bent maple re-rings, the shells gain added projection, tuning stability and structural strength. The result is a drum sound that blends vintage richness with modern consistencyalive, open and ready for any performance environment.
Iconic Radio King Snare With Re-Engineered Zoomatic Throw-Off
The included 14″ x 5.5″ Radio King snare is a standout centerpiece, embodying the heritage that made Slingerland a household name. Built with the same three-ply construction as the toms and bass drum, it delivers a fat, resonant backbeat alongside crisp articulation. A re-engineered Zoomatic throw-off ensures smooth, precise operation, paired with 20-strand snare wires for that signature Slingerland snap and depth. Whether you’re chasing vintage swing textures, classic rock punch or modern studio precision, this snare provides the versatility and character that define the Radio King sound.
Compact Four-Piece Configuration With Full-Scale Presence
Designed for drummers who value versatility, this four-piece setup delivers big sound in a streamlined format. The 12″ x 8″ tom speaks with clarity and musicality, while the 14″ x 14″ floor tom produces deep, woody resonance that anchors the low end. The 18″ x 14″ bass drum brings focused punch and warm projection, making it equally at home in intimate jazz clubs, modern rock venues and professional recording studios. Together, the drums strike a perfect balance between compact dimensions and commanding presence, delivering the unmistakable Radio King voice across any genre.
Vintage-Inspired Slingerland Appointments With Modern Precision
Slingerland has outfitted this kit with premium details that capture the brand’s golden-era aesthetic while ensuring modern durability. Nickel-plated Stick Saver hoops provide a warm rimshot tone and reduce stick wear, while an isolated tom mount preserves shell resonance. Built-in tone control mufflers allow quick adjustments to sustain and dryness without the need for external dampening. Classic Radio King badges complete the look, connecting this reissue to nearly a century of American drum-making tradition. Every detail reflects Slingerland’s commitment to marrying heritage with forward-thinking design.
A Living Legacy for Today’s Drummers
The Slingerland Radio King 4-piece shell pack marks an exciting new chapter in the Slingerland story. With its handcrafted shells, iconic snare and vintage-inspired appointments, it delivers the tonal magic that made Radio Kings legendary while meeting the demands of modern performance. Perfect for players seeking a compact kit with commanding presence, as well as collectors looking for an heirloom-quality piece of drum history, this set offers timeless sound, unmatched craftsmanship and enduring inspiration.
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