All Yamaha wood drums have one thing in common. Our craftsmen create every drum shell using our exclusive staggered diagonal seam, Air Seal System just as they have since 1967. Each two or three-ply master ply is cut to length to very precise tolerance with a diagonal cut on each end. The diagonal seam in the drum shell will not separate, eliminating the need to fill gaps in the bearing edge with filler putty. These plies have glue applied and are then put into the mold by hand, one master play at a time. The craftsman then inserts an air bag into the mold and inflates it, clamping the shell with even pressure 360 degrees around. This process creates a shell that is strong, starts round, and stays round for many years.

Tour Custom drum shells are 100% maple. The wood snare drum has body, yet plenty of high end and is very articulate at all dynamic levels.

All Tour Custom drums have 60-degree R2 bearing edges. This is something new for Yamaha on a maple shell drums. This bearing edge has a rounder profile so that there is more shell to head contact. This gives the drums clarity in the low-end fundamental and added warmth.

Tour Custom drums are available in Yamahas universal sizes. This ratio of diameter to depth makes these drums versatile enough for any musical situation. The bass drums have low-end punch but are responsive, so it is right at home on the road playing large venues or around town on a club date.

• Yamaha Artists News - September/ October 2008

  As the festival season ends the touring season begins and Yamaha has lots of artists out on the road and coming to a venue near you. This along with a couple of choice album releases makes October a very tasty month!

• Yamaha Download - Great New Service For Yamaha Users!

  The Yamaha Download brings you the latest news and views from Yamaha UK. It has exclusive interviews, gear demos and live music as we talk to the artists who use Yamaha instruments in session and on some of the biggest stages in the world.

• The Ting Tings - Chart Toppers With Yamaha Drums And Squier Guitars!

  The Ting Tings, who have made it to the coveted No.1 spot in the UK singles with their massive hit 'That's Not My Name' and also reached the No. 1 in the album charts with their debut 'We Started Nothing' album, are set to play all major festivals this Summer, including Glastonbury next weekend...make sure to watch them!