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It's been a stellar year for drum gear. And a look back at the abundance of new products launched at 2008's NAMM Show and Musikmesse highlights the extent of technological advancement.

Yamaha's DTXtreme III is a milestone in electronic kit making, DW's X Shell technology is a giant leap for drumming kind and Tama's new small, shallow-tom Superstar configuration will, almost certainly, be copied by every other manufacturer in 2009.

After hours of scratching, clawing and biting, MusicRadar and the experts at Rhythm magazine have whittled down the filler to bring you the finest drumming gear of 2008. So here we go, 'head' first…

Drum heads

Evans G-Plus coated drumheads
From £13.25

G-Plus are a clear cut above most heads on the market, let alone 2008's offerings. Warm, rich and durable, these skins cut through live situations like a knife while providing an almost pre-EQ'd quality for the studio. They're a revelation, seriously…

Acoustic kits

Tama Superstar Custom Hyperdrive Kit
From £979

Small, shallow toms are nothing new, but ditching the wide boys in a 'bigger-is-better market' is a brave move from Tama. It's also one which pays off – sound wise - immeasurably. They're another example of how Chinese manufacturing has progressed: the finishing (of the bearing edges in particular) is excellent. Pearl's overhauled Vision line deserves a mention here, too. We caught a glimpse at NAMM but the next issue of Rhythm magazine (on sale 22 December) has the full glowing review.

DW Collector's Series X Shell kit
From £543

So what the hell is X Shell technology? That's a good question, and one answered exceedingly well in this review. Essentially, though, it revolves around the cross-laminating of the drum's ply. DW has found a way to lay them vertically instead of diagonally for a lower tone or, distinctly Bonhamesque-sounding drum. Does it justify the hype? More than so, hence the inclusion here. It's an inspired idea.