NAMM 2020: Yamaha introduces Stage Custom Hip

Yamaha's new Stage Custom Hip kit
Yamaha's new Stage Custom Hip kit (Image credit: Yamaha)

NAMM 2020Yamaha’s Stage Custom has been one of the most successful drum kits in history, and now Yamaha has introduced a new twist on the Stage Custom’s renowned blend of sound quality and affordability with the Stage Custom Hip.

As we’ve seen from many brands in the last couple of years, portable setups are becoming the ideal ‘second’ kit for many players who want to perform with smaller real estate on-the-go.

Stage Custom Hip might not be as tiny as some we’ve seen, but it’s certainly packed with interesting points. Starting with a 20”x8” bass drum which Yamaha says offers “a deep tonal low end as well as smaller footprint”.

Next up is a 13”x8” floor tom, which doubles as a snare drum - perfect if you’re in need of two snares for some songs but still want to carry a minimal setup to your gig. The kit is completed by a 10”x5” rack tom and a 13”x5” snare.

Stage Custom Hip is built from 100% birch, six-ply shells and is available in three finishes: Natural Wood, Raven Black and Matte Surf Green. We’re expecting to see these kits starting to surface in the spring, with the US retail price set at $1,160.

Stuart Williams
Drums

Stuart has been working for guitar publications since 2008, beginning his career as Reviews Editor for Total Guitar before becoming Editor for six years. During this time, he and the team brought the magazine into the modern age with digital editions, a Youtube channel and the Apple chart-bothering Total Guitar Podcast. Stuart has also served as a freelance writer for Guitar World, Guitarist and MusicRadar reviewing hundreds of products spanning everything from acoustic guitars to valve amps, modelers and plugins. When not spouting his opinions on the best new gear, Stuart has been reminded on many occasions that the 'never meet your heroes' rule is entirely wrong, clocking-up interviews with the likes of Eddie Van Halen, Foo Fighters, Green Day and many, many more.