# Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch — Drums / Kits | MetalForge

> The Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch is a pro-grade drums / kits choice used by 2 metal drummers in the MetalForge database.

**Brand:** Tama  
**Series:** Starclassic Maple/Birch  
**Category:** Drums / Kits  
**Estimated Price:** $2,500–$8,000  
**Drummers Using It:** 2  

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## Metal Drummers Who Use the Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch

- **[Mike Portnoy](https://metalforge.io/drummer/mike-portnoy)** (Dream Theater / Liquid Tension Experiment / The Winery Dogs) — standard configuration
- **[Chris Turner](https://metalforge.io/drummer/chris-turner)** (Devin Townsend Project) — standard configuration

See all 2 drummers on the [Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch gear page](https://metalforge.io/gear/tama/starclassic-maple-birch/drummers-using).

## Gear Specifications

**Shell:** Maple/Birch hybrid — versatile tonal response
**Type:** Acoustic Drum Kit

## Why Metal Drummers Choose the Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch

The Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch is one of the most respected drum kit series in professional metal drumming. Players including Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater / Liquid Tension Experiment / The Winery Dogs), Chris Turner (Devin Townsend Project) choose this kit for its reliable maple construction and consistent tone across all dynamics. The Starclassic Maple/Birch stands up to the physical demands of metal touring — heavy hitting, extreme tempos, and constant travel.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: Which metal drummers use the Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch?**
A: 2 metal drummers in the MetalForge database play the Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch: Mike Portnoy and Chris Turner. Each profile includes their exact setup and full kit configuration.

**Q: Is the Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch good for metal drumming?**
A: Yes — the Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch is a proven metal choice, endorsed by 2 professional drummers across death, thrash, progressive, and groove metal. Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater / Liquid Tension Experiment / The Winery Dogs is among the signature players relying on this drums / kits for high-intensity performance.

**Q: How much does the Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch cost?**
A: The Tama Starclassic Maple/Birch is estimated at $2,500–$8,000 street price. Actual pricing varies by retailer, finish, and configuration. Check Thomann (EU) or Sweetwater (US) for current deals.

**Q: Where can I find more Tama gear used by pro metal drummers?**
A: MetalForge tracks all Tama series used by professional metal drummers. Visit [https://metalforge.io/gear/tama/starclassic-maple-birch/drummers-using](https://metalforge.io/gear/tama/starclassic-maple-birch/drummers-using) for the full drummer list with exact configurations, or search MetalForge for more Tama gear data.

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*Source: [metalforge.io/gear/tama/starclassic-maple-birch/drummers-using](https://metalforge.io/gear/tama/starclassic-maple-birch/drummers-using) · Last updated: 2026-06-18*