Slingerland

collapse expand iconDescription

The Slingerland Radio King 3-piece shell pack revives one of the most iconic names in American drumming, blending period-correct craftsmanship with a commanding vintage voice. First introduced in the 1930s and made famous by legends like Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich, the original Radio Kings became a defining sound in swing, big band, rock and beyond. This modern recreation carries forward that golden-era spirit with a versatile setup that includes a 13" x 9" tom, 16" x 16" floor tom and a thunderous 24" x 14" bass drum. Handcrafted with three-ply mahogany/poplar shells, steam-bent maple re-rings, rounded 30-degree bearing edges and nickel-plated hardware, the Radio King reissue delivers the buttery feel, warm tonality and punchy attack that defined an era—reborn for today's drummers.

Three-Ply Mahogany/Poplar/Mahogany Shells for Vintage Warmth and Punch

At the heart of the Radio King's unmistakable tone are its three-ply shells, carefully crafted with layers of mahogany and poplar for a lush, responsive feel. This classic layup is paired with steam-bent maple reinforcement rings for structural integrity and tonal focus. The 30-degree rounded bearing edges further enhance the warmth and depth of the sound, delivering a buttery, vintage feel under the sticks. Whether you're playing whisper-soft brush patterns or driving a rock backbeat, these shells speak with a full-bodied resonance that has made Slingerland kits beloved by drummers and producers for nearly a century.

Nickel-Plated Hardware and Classic Appointments

Every aspect of this Radio King shell pack reflects Slingerland's uncompromising attention to detail. Nickel-plated hardware lends a period-correct look and a smooth, vintage luster. The signature Stick Saver hoops provide a comfortable playing surface while helping focus the drum's attack. An isolated tom mount keeps the 13" x 9" rack tom free to resonate naturally, while built-in tone control mufflers on each drum let you fine-tune sustain without extra accessories. Classic Radio King badges complete the look, offering a timeless aesthetic that bridges past and present.

Classic Three-Piece Configuration Delivers the Signature Slingerland Sound

The Radio King 3-piece shell pack delivers the warm, punchy attack and lush sustain that defined generations of recordings. The large 24" x 14" bass drum produces a commanding low end with a rounded thump, while the 16" x 16" floor tom adds depth and body to your fills. The 13" x 9" rack tom cuts with clarity, balancing presence with musical warmth. This configuration is equally at home in big band, roots rock, Americana or modern indie contexts, making it a versatile choice for the working drummer who values both heritage and performance.

Rich Radio King Heritage, Reborn for Modern Drummers

More than just a vintage reissue, the new Radio King represents a thoughtful rebirth of a classic, combining historical accuracy with contemporary build quality. Handcrafted in limited quantities in Oxnard, CA, each kit embodies the artistry and dedication that defined Slingerland's original golden era. From the choice of tonewoods to the precision of the bearing edges, every detail is executed to exacting standards, ensuring a drum set that sounds as inspiring as it looks. This is an instrument built to stand the test of time.

All Hail the Return of the King

The Slingerland Radio King 3-piece shell pack is a stunning handcrafted kit for drummers who demand authentic vintage tone, period-correct appointments and stage-ready durability. Whether you're chasing the classic swing sound, channeling vintage rock energ, or exploring your own signature style, this kit delivers. Step behind a piece of drum history, feel the unmistakable response and make the Radio King your own.

Slingerland Radio King 3-Piece Shell Pack With 24" Bass Drum White Marine Pearl
Slingerland Radio King 3-Piece Shell Pack With 24" Bass Drum White Marine Pearl
Slingerland Radio King 3-Piece Shell Pack With 24" Bass Drum White Marine Pearl

collapse expand iconFeatures

  • Three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shells deliver punchy attack and warm tonal depth
  • Steam-bent maple re-rings offer enhanced shell stability and sustain
  • 30-degree rounded bearing edges provide smooth feel and balanced response
  • Nickel-plated hardware resists corrosion and adds vintage-inspired durability
  • Stick Saver hoops provide reliable rimshot control and reduced stick wear
  • Built-in tone control mufflers allow quick adjustments to sustain and resonance
  • Isolation tom mount minimizes shell vibration for cleaner, focused sound
  • Classic Radio King badges highlight the Slingerland legacy
  • 24" x 14" bass drum delivers powerful low-end performance
  • Handcrafted in California for precision build quality and authentic American sound

collapse expand iconSpecs

Shells
  • Shell construction: 3-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany
  • Reinforcement rings: Steam-bent maple
  • Bearing edges: 30-degree rounded
Drum Sizes
  • Tom: 13" x 9"
  • Floor tom: 16" x 16"
  • Bass drum: 24" x 14"
Hardware
  • Hoop type: Stick Saver
  • Tom mount: Isolated tom mount
  • Tone control mufflers: Built-in
  • Hardware finish: Nickel-plated

collapse expand iconReviews

Be the first to review the Product

collapse expand iconQ&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

No results but…

You can be the first to ask a new question.

It may be Answered within 48 hours.