Mapex USA is introducing new QR Code Technology into the company’s marketing materials. A QR Code is a two-dimensional bar code that can be scanned by most smartphones, like iPhones or Droids. Free QR Code phone applications are widely available.

Mapex introduced a 20-page brochure at Summer NAMM featuring the company’s highlighted products such as the popular Saturn and Meridian drum sets and revolutionary Falcon pedal. QR Codes are used throughout the brochure. When one of the codes in the brochure is scanned by a smartphone, the code links the user directly to a YouTube video showing the drum set on the page being played by a Mapex artist including Walfredo Reyes and Chris Pennie.

“Our use of the QR Code will broaden the benefit of our printed marketing material.  Like our drums, the QR codes give the Mapex fan a unique experience,” said Jeff Ivester, Marketing Communications Manager.

In addition to using the codes in brochures and catalogs, Mapex is incorporating the technology into its print advertising and in-store signage. They expect others to follow suit.

“Players will walk into a drum shop and see a Meridian drum set alongside the Mapex QR Code-equipped POP. He can use his phone to scan the code to see and hear the drums being played by Chris Pennie right there in the store.”

QR Code readers for most smartphones can be downloaded from www.mobile-barcodes.com. iPhone users can download the free QuiQR app from the App Store.

Mapex announced the introduction of the Voyager Drum Set Series, an entirely new entry-level product line for 2010. All Voyager drum sets are packaged to be “ready to go” and include a full set of all new Mapex 330 Series Hardware, a padded throne, a set of new Mapex Cymbals and a set-up and instructional DVD. The all basswood drums feature newly designed appointments, including lugs, mounts, badges and bass drum claws.

The Voyager features 7.2mm, basswood shells with newly designed, low mass lugs. These small profile lugs are mounted to the shell using only a single point of contact, minimizing the holes drilled into the shell and thereby enhancing resonance. Voyager Series drums also Remo drumheads, including a self-muffling bass drum batter head.The bass drum’s tom mount features new styling and a recessed adapter to accommodate an optional cymbal arm.

All Voyager drum sets feature newly designed Mapex 330 Series Hardware. The 330 Series Cymbal Stand features Multi-Sustain Cymbal Felts, that allow players to use any combination of plastic or felt on their cymbal stands for more precise cymbal sustain. Mapex Voyager drum sets also include an instructional set-up DVD, hosted by Drumming’s Global Ambassador and Mapex Artist, Dom Famularo.

Voyager is available in Black, Burgundy, Dark Indigo, Gray Steel or Snow White covered finishes and three 5-piece configurations: Standard/VR5254TCZ (22×16 bass drum, 12×9 and 13×10 tom toms, 16×16 floor tom, 14×5.5 snare drum), Fusionease/ VR5244TCZ (22×16 bass drum, 10×8 and 12×9 tom toms, 14×14 floor tom, 14×5.5 snare drum) and Jazz/VR5044TCZ (20×16 bass drum, 10×8 and 12×9 tom toms, 14×14 floor tom, 14×5.5 snare drum).

The new Mapex cymbal pack is also available with Voyager kits. The pack includes a set of 14-inch hi-hats and an 18-inch crash/ride.

The Voyager Series replaces the Q Series product line, which has been discontinued.

Features:

• 7.2mm basswood shells with durable, high-gloss wrapped finishes
• Double tom holder with auxillary cymbal placement position
• New Mapex 330 Series Hardware
• Drummer’s throne included
• Remo equipped, including self-muffling bass drum head
• Instructional set-up DVD included
• Limited Lifetime Warranty on drum shells
• 5-year Limited Warranty on hardware