Tama PAL146 Starphonic Aluminium 14 x 6 Inch Snare Drum

Handcrafted in Japan, the Tama Starphonic PAL146 snare drum is a premium instrument designed for drummers seeking clarity, sensitivity, and articulation in every stroke. Built with a 1.2mm seamless aluminium shell, it delivers a bright, crisp, and controlled sound that excels across genres — from studio sessions to live performances.

The Starphonic series represents the pinnacle of Tama’s design innovation, featuring custom-engineered lugs, hoops, and snare systems that offer unmatched tonal precision and reliability. Every detail of the PAL146 is purpose-built for superior tuning stability, responsiveness, and ease of maintenance.

Main Features

Super Sensitive Hi-Carbon Snare Wire

For a crisper, more responsive snare sound, Tama developed a new “Super Sensitive Hi-Carbon” wire. Redesigned with custom plate shapes and refined winding patterns, it fits closely to the snare-side head, delivering enhanced brightness, articulation, and dynamic sensitivity.

Non-Loosening Rubber Gasket (US. PAT. NO. 7825318)

The Freedom Lug system includes a built-in rubber block that prevents tension bolts from loosening during play. This design maintains consistent tuning stability, even under heavy playing conditions.

Ratchet-Style Snappy Tension Adjuster

Tama’s ratchet-based snare tension system allows for ultra-fine adjustments, ensuring precise snare response and consistent performance. Each micro-click moves the snare wire just 0.083mm, offering exceptional control for nuanced playing styles.

Detachable Butt Plate

Changing the snare-side head is quick and effortless thanks to the detachable butt plate. Simply remove two screws to detach the plate while keeping your snare tension intact — when reattached, your settings return exactly as before.

“Linear-Drive” Strainer (US. PAT. NO. 8017846)

The advanced Linear-Drive strainer system offers a smooth, controlled motion that eliminates the harsh “slap” sound when engaging the snare. Its linear motion ensures consistent contact between the wires and the head, improving sensitivity and reducing wear on the components.

Freedom Lug & Claw Hook System

The quick-release claw hooks allow for fast and simple head changes without fully removing tension rods. This unique design improves efficiency and convenience during tuning or maintenance.

Grooved Hoop Design (US. PAT. NO. 7825318)

A fusion of vintage aesthetics and modern engineering, the patented Grooved Hoop delivers a balanced mix of open resonance and focused attack. This design helps shape the PAL146’s distinctive, cutting tone while enhancing rimshot projection.

Specifications

• Model Number: PAL146
• Size: 14" x 6"
• Shell Material: 1.2mm Seamless Aluminium
• Hoops: MGH14 / MGH14S (Grooved Hoop)
• Lugs: MTL960S (Freedom Lug)
• Strainer / Butt: MLS50A / MLS50B (Linear-Drive System, Chrome)
• Snare Wire: MS20RL14C (20-Strand Super Sensitive Hi-Carbon Snare Wires)

Summary

The Tama Starphonic PAL146 Aluminium Snare Drum combines refined Japanese craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. With its seamless aluminium shell, precision hardware, and advanced snare system, it produces a bright, articulate tone that’s equally responsive and powerful.

Built for discerning drummers, the PAL146 exemplifies the Starphonic ethos — maximum performance, uncompromising quality, and effortless control.