The Mapex Black Panther Nucleus snare drum features a maple/walnut shell fitted with Sonic Saver hoops and finished in Piano Black lacquer. The Nucleus represents the center, when players need to drive the groove right down the middle. The middlemost plies are walnut providing a slightly organic character between the inner and outer layer of classic maple. 

The Nucleus is fitted with Mapex's proprietary Sonic Saver hoops, a middle ground between triple-flange and die-cast. They’re made from steel that’s folded inward for a round shape instead of a flat flange. Sonic Savers control the tone for a drier sound than triple-flange, but they don’t deaden the drum the way die-cast hoops can. They also reduce wear on the drum and sticks. The result is a focused snare with clean, punchy rim shots every time.