"The brand has become more than just a manufacturer to me — it feels like an old friend"
Chuang Tzu Heng (also known as Xiao Ji) is a drummer from Taipei, Taiwan. He fell in love with drumming at the age of 17 and has since dedicated himself to rhythm and percussion. In 2003, he co-founded the band Punkhoo, and later, in 2014, formed DSPS, becoming a prominent figure in Taiwan's independent music scene. Known for his skill in rhythmic arrangements, he excels at creating flowing and dynamic soundscapes through the drum kit.
In 2006, Punkhoo won the Grand Prize at the Ho-Hai-Yan Gongliao Rock Festival, which launched them into a wave of performances at music festivals and overseas tours. Over the years, the band has played in over 30 cities across Taiwan, China, Japan, and South Korea.
In 2020, Punkhoo’s album “The Road Ahead” earned a nomination for Best Instrumentalist at the 11th Golden Indie Music Awards. With over 20 years of experience in live performance and music creation, Chuang is widely regarded as one of the most influential drummers in Taiwan's indie music community.
"My first encounter with a Mapex drum set was at the age of 19, and it left a lasting impression. My drum teacher at the time was very particular about sound — he demanded stability in tone and balance across toms. In his studio, there was a limited-edition Mapex Deep Forest series kit. I’ll never forget the feeling of striking that set for the first time. The sound was full and stable, with warm and rounded low-mids, and well-controlled overtones. It was often used as a reference in lessons, and under my teacher's guidance, I gradually developed an understanding of what defines great tone and its unique characteristics. That sound experience was like a gateway into a whole new world — unforgettable.
After finishing military service, I co-founded a music studio with friends. As we were just starting out, we needed cost-effective yet reliable gear. That’s when I acquired a Mapex Pro M kit from a friend. Though not the top-tier model in Mapex’s lineup, it was easy to tune and delivered a stable, punchy sound. It became an essential partner in our early days, helping us produce many works and gain experience through constant use.
Having worked with Mapex drums for decades now, the brand has become more than just a manufacturer to me — it feels like an old friend. Their drums are warm, solid, and cut through the mix with power. These qualities have been proven time and again through real-world use. In recent years, I’ve noticed the Mapex team pushing boundaries in hardware design, taking bold steps to enhance sonic variety. It’s clear they are passionate about drums and sound, and I’m always looking forward to seeing what exciting innovations they come up with next."