The Star King Beat is the precursor to the TAMA K/B and is virtually identical, both being COB. Mine is NOT a K/B but a model 8356, COS 8 lug. It is a great drum, however it lacks the parallel strainer as well as being COS. It does not match the K/B in overall performance but is a good quality build nonetheless.

Great Post,

I picked one up in terrible condition, but for $25...

It's been an 18 month project (actually 17 months and 29 days of doing nothing.. but when I read this post I thought lets get this done over the Xmas break.. it won't come near some here, but certainly nice enough to play.

pics soon

Cheers

@Blackdog: Finally, if you don't like 'that great snare sound' :D I know a member who, I think, is still keen on completing his King Beat with the original parallel strainer system. It would make sense if you part with it then.

@Snooter: I'd say that the STAR King Beats are 'more historical' and therefor more valuable. But eBay often told me the opposite. Those early King Beats are still very much underrated in the market :2Cents:

Ralf

Thanks for the info. I bid on the one listed above from ebay but the reserve was not met. Did someone here snag it?

I think most of the KBs are COS with a few being COB? Mine (below) is certainly Steel. Very, very heavy drums.

I could have sworn they were all COB! Guess I learn a little more everyday....which means I ain't dead yet!