The Sonor ProLite kits feature the vintage maple shells that were used in the Delite range, but with the improved Total Acoustic Resonance (TAR) tom mount system. An Advanced Projection System (APS) prevents direct metal-to-shell contact. These new drums also feature Sonor's unique design tension lugs with TuneSafe.

The ProLite series incorporates multiple price points depending on the shell surface and lacquering process. Three different kinds of surfaces include three finishes each and they are separated in satin lacquered solid (Crème White) and stain finishes (Nussbaum, Natural). High gloss lacquered solid (Silver Sparkle, Brilliant Black) and stain finishes (Ruby Red) and high gloss lacquered veneer finishes (Ebony White Stripes, Walnut Brown Burst, Red Tribal).

The ProLite snare drums, made via Sonor's unique cross-laminated-tension-free (CLTF) process, feature a shell with reinforcement rings for superior stiffness resulting in focused low frequencies, along with well balanced mids and highs.

ProLite also offers snares with steel and brass shells, as well as a power hoop in stead of diecast. Sizes include 14x5" and 14x6".

Dual Gline snare strainer
Each ProLite snare comes with the new Dual Gline snare strainer mechanism, that's incorporated as well as the SQ2 and Artist Series snare drums. This is a completely smooth dual cylindar throw off with no moverment from side to side. Both the strainer and butt sides are equipped with a fast-release snare wire detach function, allowing you to change the resonant head without having to loosen and adjust the snare wires. A fine-tune adjustment knob is employed on both sides.

All ProLite drums are finished with a new badge design combining a classic rectangular shape with modern design elements. An newly designed ornamental laser engraved stainless steel washer sits underneath the vent hole rivet proudly states "Handcrafted in Germany - Since 1875".

Reintroduction of Phonic snares
Sonor originally introduced its top class Phonic snares some thirty years ago, in the early 1980s. At this year's NAMM Show the company reintroduced the Phonic D516 and D515 models. The D515 14x5.5 inch model features a beech shell construction made of twelve layers with rosewood veneer on both the inside and outside. The D516 14x6.5 inch snare has a beech shell of nine layers and offers a mahogany outer veneer.

Both re-issued Phonic snares come with die cast hoops, chrome hardware, retro Phonic lugs with slotted screws, and Remo drum heads. The only thing that helps you distinguish the new snare from the original ones is the improved snare strainer mechanism.

Mikkey Dee signature snare
Sonor also presented Motörhead drummer Mikkey Dee's new signature series snare drum at NAMM. Mikkey has been part of the Sonor family of artists for more than 30 years. Sonor's SSD12-14X7.25MD Mikkey Dee signature snare drum has a 14x7.25" shell size and features a nine ply birch shell construction with a wide tuning range. The snare offers a unique Motörhead wrap design, created by Motörhead album designer Mark DeVito, and comes with chrome hardware and power hoops. Watch this introduction video:

Sonor percussion
The German drum company also released new percussion items, including a new cajon line with five different models. The Chico is designed for children and now has got two playing areas which allow for additional sounds. According to Sonor, the Mediano offers impressive snare and bass sounds, along with a multi-coloured body. The Grande is said to deliver excellent lows end and a great percussive snare sound. It features a natural body and front plate. The high-end Tineo and Listrado cajons both produce a distinctive snare sound, due to the use of guitar strings inside.

Sonor's new and innovative Practice Everywhere Cajon Pads are based on these models as well and they also include guitar strings so you can enjoy a real sound with a modest volume.

Sonor's Latino series wood and fiberglas congas and bongos are now being offered in one new finish each: Satin Zebrano (wood) and Piano Black (fiberglas) . The professional latin percussion instruments are equipped with traditional rims and selected bufallo skins.

Sonor's Global fiberglas series congas and bongos are now being offered in Brown Fade besides the existing Black Matte finish.