Overview
9 Ply, 8.1mm Walnut shell. Satin finish. Sonic saver hoops. The cylinder-drive strainer and butt-end adjuster uses a self-lubricating bearing to ensure smooth operation. The adjustment dial employs "micro-lock" technology, providing precise control.
The 14"x5.5" Retrosonic is a real looker, perhaps the most gorgeous of all with the glorious swirling grain of rich walnut finished to a satin-smooth sheen.
It's a relatively hefty 8.1mm all-walnut shell and has Mapex's so-called 1:9 bearing edges where there is a 45 degree slope right up to the sharp outer edge. Extremely shallow snare beds are cut almost imperceptibly, but this seems to be enough for them to work just fine. The micro sensitive new strainer plays its part in this.
Chrome hardware and tube lugs compliment the dark wood perfectly.
Original text and main image Warren Armstrong
Other images courtesy of Mapex Japan
