1981 Tama Swingstar Drum Kit with Zildjian Cymbals

The 1981 Tama Swingstar is a classic 5-piece drum kit from the era when Tama was earning its reputation for rugged, great-sounding drums. Built in Japan, these kits featured 9-ply wood shells and sturdy hardware designed to handle years of heavy playing and gigging.

This kit has been expanded with the addition of an 18" floor tom, adding a deeper, more commanding low end while preserving the Swingstar’s punchy, warm character. The kick delivers a focused thump, the toms are full and resonant, and the snare cuts cleanly without sounding harsh—very much in line with early ’80s rock and pop tones.

In 2018, all of the shells were rewrapped in an aged ’60s white pearl finish, replacing the original jet black wrap. To complete the refresh, the Zildjian cymbals were cleaned and polished, removing decades of built-up wear and grime and restoring their original shine. The result is a kit that pairs dependable early-’80s Tama construction with a classic vintage look and a refreshed, stage-ready presentation.