Steve’s Notes: This is such a great set! The new Slingerland Radio King series in gold glass glitter. 8x12, 14x14, 14x20. AND, this set is complete with my original reproduction of the Slingerland set-o-matic tom holder. I ordered this set specifically without the bracket Slingerland uses on the 12, since we wanted to mount the set-o-matic, which has a different hole spacing. This tom holder was a fabulous one designed by Slingerland from the mid 60s onward through the 70s. Great design. Ours is chrome plated, but it looks great along with the nickel hardware. We’re including the tom holder at no extra cost. See our Reverb listing here: https://reverb.com/item/95855665-slingerland-12-14-20-radio-king-3-ply-drum-set-gold-glass-glitter-with-set-o-matic-tom-holder
HERE’S WHAT SLINGERLAND SAYS ABOUT THIS GREAT SERIES:
Compact, balanced and rooted in classic design, the Slingerland Radio King 3-piece shell pack delivers vintage-inspired American drum character in a streamlined, space-conscious configuration. Built in Oxnard, California, and available in a variety of finishes, this shell pack features three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shells with 100% maple re-rings and 30-degree bearing edges for warm lows, smooth mids and controlled resonance that sits comfortably in a mix. The 12x8" rack tom, 14x14" floor tom and 20x14" bass drum create a compact drum kit with a balanced tonal spread, offering added low-end presence and projection while remaining manageable for smaller stages or studio spaces. Lastly, nickel-plated hardware, Stick Saver hoops and built-in tone control mufflers further shape the kit’s vintage-inspired response while providing modern reliability for everyday playing.
Three-Ply Shell Construction With Maple Re-Rings
At the core of the Radio King sound is its three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shell construction, designed to produce warm lows, smooth mids and controlled highs. The addition of 100% maple re-rings reinforces each shell for improved structural integrity while enhancing tonal focus and projection. This combination delivers a balanced, resonant voice that remains open yet controlled across a wide tuning range. Whether tuned low for a fuller, vintage-style thump or higher for added articulation and rebound, the shells maintain clarity and depth, allowing the drums to sit naturally in both live and studio environments.
30-Degree Bearing Edges for Vintage-Inspired Response
The 30-degree bearing edges increase head-to-shell contact, producing a slightly softer feel and a more controlled sustain. This design helps reduce excessive overtones while maintaining warmth and tonal character, making it easier to dial in a focused sound without relying heavily on external dampening. The increased contact also promotes even head tension and consistent response across the playing surface, supporting dynamic control from subtle ghost notes to more pronounced accents. The result is a smooth, balanced feel that reflects the classic Radio King playing experience.
Compact Configuration With Classic Hardware Appointments
Slingerland's 20x14" bass drum delivers deeper low-end presence with a controlled, focused response, while the 12x8" rack tom and 14x14" floor tom provide balanced articulation and tonal spread across the kit. Nickel-plated hardware, Stick Saver hoops and streamlined lugs promote tuning stability while allowing the shells to resonate naturally. An isolated tom mount helps the rack tom vibrate more freely, preserving the shell’s natural resonance and sustain. Built-in tone control mufflers provide quick, on-the-fly sustain adjustment without additional dampening, making it easy to adapt to different rooms or playing styles. Designed for drummers seeking expressive dynamics in a compact drum kit format, the Slingerland Radio King 3-piece shell pack blends traditional craftsmanship, balanced tone and modern reliability for stage and studio use.
