The Mapex Black Panther Design Lab uses a revolutionary process involving reinforcement rings. Rather than using rings solely for the purpose of keeping thin-shelled drums round, Mapex focuses on how the use of rings and their unique placement can affect the sonic character of the instrument. The first example of this approach by Mapex came with the design of the Black Panther artist inspired “Versatus” snare drum. A batter-side-only ring was used to create a “vintage” style tone: applying more wood at the top edge gave the drum a thicker – or “fatter” sound. These “Sonic” rings are distributed in varying degrees throughout the system.