1980's Tama Superstar Mastercraft AW-456 Birch Artwood 14" x 6,5" Snare Drum with Roller-Action Strainer.
1980's Tama Superstar Mastercraft AW-456 Birch Artwood 14" x 6,5" Snare Drum with Roller-Action Strainer.
Condition & Authenticity
Every instrument in our collection is thoroughly inspected and authenticated. We provide detailed condition reports covering originality, wear, repairs, and restoration work. You'll know exactly what you're getting — no surprises.
Sound & Playability
We assess each drum's sonic character, bearing edges, and playability. Our notes describe the unique sound profile — whether it's warm, punchy, or vintage-bright. We can also advise on setup and tuning to maximize its potential.
Shipping & Support
We ship worldwide with professional packaging and full insurance. Every purchase includes our expert support — questions about setup, maintenance, or authenticity? We're here to help. We also offer restoration services if you'd like to bring your instrument back to life.
1980s Tama Superstar Mastercraft AW-456 Birch Artwood Snare Drum
14" × 6.5" — Super Maple Finish | Made in Japan
A beautiful and highly sought-after vintage snare drum from the golden era of Tama, this Superstar Mastercraft AW-456 exemplifies the craftsmanship and sound that made Tama a dominant force in the 1980s.
Built in Japan, this snare features a 6-ply birch shell, delivering the classic Superstar sound: focused, punchy, articulate, and powerful, with excellent projection and clarity—equally at home in studio or live settings.
Key Features & Specifications:
Size: 14" × 6.5"
Shell: 6-ply Birch (Artwood construction)
Finish: Super Maple wrap with inlay — elegant, warm, and period-correct
Badge: Original Tama Superstar badge
Serial Number: #101889
Strainer: Original Roller-Action strainer (smooth, precise, and highly desirable)
Condition:
Very good used condition, particularly impressive given the drum’s age and rarity
Structurally excellent, fully functional, and well preserved
The snare has been carefully stripped and thoroughly cleaned, maintaining originality while ensuring optimal playability
Sound & Character:
This Mastercraft snare delivers a tight, cutting attack with strong midrange presence, fast response, and controlled sustain. The birch shell provides clarity and punch, making it ideal for rock, fusion, pop, and studio work—exactly what made Superstar snares legendary during the 1980s.
Why it matters:
Original Japanese-made Superstar Mastercraft snares—especially with the Roller-Action strainer and in this configuration—are becoming increasingly rare. This drum is a fantastic example of Tama’s peak manufacturing period and is equally appealing to collectors and serious players.
A true vintage Japanese classic with unmistakable 1980s character.
Professionally packed and shipped worldwide from Portugal.