Octoban

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Octoban drums are usually grouped in sets of four or eight. They are different length cylinders or long tubular drums (11 inches to 32 inches long) with the same diameter heads (usually 6 inches or 15 cm). The different lengths of the cylinders or tubes is what gives each drum its distinct tone. Octoban drums can be tuned melodically or to random pitches. Octobans were invented by the Japanese company Tama in the mid-eighties. They are used by several progressive rock players such as Tim Alexander, Mike Portnoy, Simon Phillips, Bill Bruford, Stewart Copeland, and bassist Chris Layhe of The Icicle Works.

Though they were invented by Tama, many companies such as Pearl Drums and Peace Drums manufacture them today. Octobans have also been made under the name of "Quarter Toms", "Oct-o-toms", and even "Rocket Toms". Some companies have even made acrylic octobans. Many people have made their own octobans using PVC pipes. The Blue Man Group has also made their own octobans.

Tama Octoban Sets
24-32" Octobans