Slingerland Radio King 3-Piece Shell Pack With 18" Bass Drum Black Diamond Pearl

The Slingerland Radio King 3-piece shell pack revives one of the most celebrated drum kits in history with vintage soul and modern precision. Rooted in the Radio King legacy that shaped jazz, swing and rock for nearly a century, this handcrafted kit channels the warmth and punch that made Slingerland an American icon. The shell pack includes a 12" x 8" tom, 14" x 14" floor tom and 18" x 14" bass drum—perfect for drummers seeking a compact yet commanding setup. Nickel-plated hardware, including Stick Saver hoops and built-in tone control mufflers, round out a design steeped in heritage and tailored for today's stage and studio.

Warm, Resonant Three-Ply Mahogany/Poplar Shell Construction

At the heart of the Radio King sound are its three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shells, prized for their lush warmth and responsive feel. This classic construction is handcrafted in Oxnard, California, preserving the same tonal DNA that powered generations of legendary drummers. The shells are built with 30-degree rounded bearing edges, offering a buttery stick response and a balanced blend of warmth and articulation. Whether you're laying down a smoky jazz groove or driving a rock backbeat, these shells deliver a dynamic, room-filling presence that sits beautifully in any mix.

Maple Reinforcement Rings for Added Strength and Crisp Attack

Each shell is fitted with steam-bent maple reinforcement rings—a classic design detail that contributes to the kit's crisp vintage sound. These re-rings enhance shell stability, ensuring consistent tuning and durability through years of heavy playing. More than just structural support, they subtly shape the tone, adding focus to the lows, tightening the mids and giving the kit that unmistakable Radio King punch. The result is a drum sound that feels simultaneously rich and controlled, ready to meet the demands of both live performance and studio recording.

Compact Three-Piece Configuration With Big Presence

Designed for drummers who want maximum tone in a streamlined format, this three-piece configuration delivers vintage flavor in a space-friendly footprint. The 12" x 8" tom offers crisp, singing highs, the 14" x 14" floor tom brings a deep, woody resonance and the 18" x 14" bass drum packs a surprising low-end punch with quick, defined attack. Perfect for jazz clubs, smaller stages or tight recording spaces, this setup offers remarkable versatility—capable of adapting to any genre while maintaining its signature Radio King character.

Premium Nickel-Plated Hardware and Vintage-Inspired Appointments

Every piece of this kit is finished with premium, vintage-style hardware that enhances both performance and presentation. Nickel-plated Stick Saver hoops provide a warm rimshot tone while reducing stick wear, and the isolated tom mount ensures maximum sustain and tonal purity. Built-in tone control mufflers give you instant damping options without the need for external muffling. Adorned with classic Radio King badges, this kit looks every bit as refined as it sounds—a true nod to Slingerland's golden-era craftsmanship.

Own a Piece of Drum History With the Radio King Reissue

If you're looking to follow in the footsteps of the drumming greats, the Slingerland Radio King 3-piece shell pack is here to inspire with its rich legacy and timeless craftsmanship. Combining the tonal magic of its vintage predecessors with the reliability of contemporary build techniques, it's equally at home on a smoky jazz stage, in a high-end recording studio or in the hands of a collector who demands playability as much as prestige. Step behind the kit and experience why the Radio King name continues to inspire drummers worldwide.