5 Best Brass Snare Drums

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A snare drum is a type of percussion instrument that is played with a drumstick. It has a thin metal or plastic shell and is usually played with the hands, although some people use brushes. Snare drums are used in many styles of music, including jazz, rock, blues, and country. They can be used to create a wide variety of sounds, depending on the type of snare drum and the way it is tuned. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of brass snare drums and provide product reviews for some of the best models on the market!

Brass has a long history of use in musical instruments and is one of the alloys on earth that is most naturally melodic. Brass is most recognized among musicians for making up a complete section of orchestral instruments; yet, its traits also apply to drums. Brass is rich, warm, and sensitive.

Due to the deeper tone and robust low-end punch of the alloy, the sound of brass snares lies between that of wood and metal. From Ludwig’s Black Beauty to Stewart Copeland’s instantly recognized crack, brass has been the source of some of the most popular and prized snare sounds.

DW Snare Drum, Black (DDSD6514BNCR)

Built with a rugged 1mm thin bronze shell, this snare drum is equipped to handle heavy pounding and hard-hitting play.

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DW Snare Drum, Black (N1060MHS)

And with True Pitch Tuning, you can enjoy an expanded tuning range with ultra-smooth fine-tuning.

So if you’re looking for a top-quality snare drum that can really deliver the goods, the DW N1060MHS is the perfect choice.

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Tama S.L.P. Black Brass Snare Drum 14 x 6.5 in.

The convenient latch for the snare wire makes it easy to access and adjust the tension, so you can get just the right sound every time. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this snare drum is sure to give you the perfect sound for any occasion. So don’t wait any longer, order your Tama S.L.P. Black Brass Snare Drum today!

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Brass Snare Drum 14″ X 4″ – “Thor” by ab Drums

The versatile design means that it can be used in a variety of settings, and the hoops are available in three different tones to give you even more options. If you’re looking for a top-quality brass snare drum, the “Thor” by ab Drums is the perfect choice.

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Ludwig 5.5×14 Heirloom Brass Snare Drum

The triple-flanged hoops, flat Imperial lugs, and keystone badge give this snare drum a classic look. The brushed finish with laser-etched center band looks great and sounds even better. The low-mass P35 butt plate maximizes shell response for a truly incredible sound. Order your Ludwig 5.5×14 Heirloom Brass Snare Drum today!

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Buyer’s Guide

Snares: What’s the Difference?

The sound of various snare drum varieties is influenced by a variety of elements, including:

• The material the drum is made of;
• The size and shape of the shell;
• The type of finish on the drum;
• The thickness of the shell;
• The number of plies in the shell;
• The bearing edge;

All these factors will affect how a snare sounds, so it’s important to understand them before you buy a new drum.

Snare drums are often constructed in one of two ways:

• With a solid shell, which can be made from a variety of materials including wood, metal, or fiberglass.
• With a stave shell, which is made from multiple pieces of wood glued together.

The most common type of snare drum is the solid shell snare. These drums are typically made from wood, metal, or fiberglass. Wood shells are the most popular type of solid shell snare, as they offer a warm tone and good projection. Metal shells are less common but offer a brighter sound with more attack. Fiberglass shells are less common still but offer a unique tone that lies somewhere between wood and metal. Stave shells are less common than solid shells but offer a few advantages.

We recommend you to briefly discuss a few key elements that affect the overall intonation and response of a snare drum:

Shell thickness and plies

The thickness of a snare drum shell will affect the overall tone of the drum. Thinner shells produce a brighter sound, while thicker shells produce a darker sound. The number of plies in a shell will also affect the sound. Single-ply shells are less common but offer a warmer, more open sound. Multi-ply shells are more common and offer increased projection and attack.

Bearing edge

The bearing edge is the point where the drumhead meets the shell. The type of bearing edge you choose will affect how easily the head vibrates and how well it sustains vibrations. A roundover bearing edge offers a warm, rounded tone with good sustain.

Hoops/rims

The type of hoop you choose will also affect the sound of your snare drum. Triple-flanged hoops offer a classic look and a warm, rounded tone. Die-cast hoops are less common but offer increased projection and attack. Wood hoops are less common still but offer a unique tone that lies somewhere between triple-flanged and die-cast.

Wires

The type of snare wire you choose will also affect the sound of your snare drum. Coated wires offer a warm, rounded tone with good sustain. Stainless steel wires are less common but offer increased attack and projection. Brass wires are less common still but offer a unique tone that lies somewhere between coated and stainless steel.

Tuning

Tuning is a very important aspect of getting the most out of your snare drum. The lower the tension on the head, the warmer and rounder the sound will be. The higher the tension, the brighter and more focused the sound will be.

Size

Shells with a shallow depth will produce a tone that is crisper, purer, and more resonant, but they won’t project as far as shells with a deeper depth. A deeper shell will be able to project further and produce a lower tone. Because of this, rock music tends to use larger drums and jazz tends to use smaller drums more frequently. Regardless of tuning, the size of a drum’s shell will affect its pitch. [1]

What is the difference between metal snares?

There are many different types of metal snares available on the market, each with its own unique sound and feel.

Brass

Brass is a favorite of many lovers of metal shells because of its bright, crisp breaking sound with mellow overtones. Chrome over brass refers to the nickel and chrome coatings that are frequently applied to brass shells to provide various tonal changes.

Bronze

Bronze snares have a warmer, darker sound that is great for creating a vintage vibe. Aluminum snares are known for their sharp, distinctive crackle which makes them ideal for adding some extra bite to your playing.

Aluminium

Aluminum is practically the industry standard for metal shell snares, similar to maple. It has a very open, transparent tone, a flat response, and little sustain. Aluminum is the most recorded snare drum style ever and is renowned for producing fantastic sounding rim shots with crunchy overtones.

Copper

When drummers want to go warmer and darker in tone but still prefer the response and sound of aluminum/brass snares, they frequently use copper shell snares. Brass sounds less musical because copper has a clearer tone than brass.

Steel

Steel is the brightest, most cutting sounding of all metals used in snare drums. Steel snares offer great projection and a very sharp, defined crack. They are often used in heavier styles of music where a lot of power and punch is needed.

Silver

Silver is not as common as other metals but it has a very unique tone. It is similar to steel in that it is bright and cutting, but it also has a bit more resonance and ring to it. Silver snares can be difficult to find but they are definitely worth checking out if you can get your hands on one.

Gold

Gold snares are the rarest of all the metal shell options. They have a very warm, round sound with lots of sustain and resonance. Gold snares are often used in jazz or funk settings where a smooth, laid back sound is desired. [2]

What is the difference between wooden snares?

Maple

Maple is the most popular material for snare drums. It provides a warm, round sound with lots of attack and low-end punch.

Birch

Birch has a punchier bass end and far more high frequency content than maple, giving it a more concentrated tone. This is why Birch snare drums typically project very well.

Birch is a popular modern substitute for maple and is used by jazz or rock musicians who want a quick, vibrant tone.

Oak

Oak is a very dense wood, so it gives the drum a thick, full sound. It’s less popular than maple or birch, but it’s still used by some high-end manufacturers. Oak is also extremely loud.

Mahogany

Mahogany was utilized in plys of shells in many old drum kits and is frequently referred to as the vintage wood for drums.

Mahogany also produces fairly quick notes with little sustain, which is another reason it is so popular in recording studios.

Poplar

Poplar is a more budget-friendly alternative to maple. It’s not as popular, but it still has a nice sound. Poplar doesn’t have as much low-end punch as some of the other woods, but it still sounds good.

Beech

Beech is similar to birch, but it’s not as popular. It has a nice, punchy sound with lots of high-end content. Beech is a good choice for rock or jazz musicians who want a quick, vibrant tone.

Cherry

Cherry is another wood that is sometimes used for snare drums. It’s not as popular as some of the other woods, but it can still produce a good sound. Cherry has a warm overall timbre and produces fairly quick notes with little sustain. [3]

Things to consider when buying a brass snare drum

When shopping for a brass snare drum, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, consider the size of the drum. Smaller drums are typically used for jazz and blues, while larger drums are better suited for rock and country.

Second, think about the type of sound you want to create. Do you want a mellow sound or a more aggressive sound? Finally, make sure to check out the different tuning options available.

Reasons to get an awesome brass snare drum

So you’ve decided that you need an awesome snare drum. But what are the reasons to get one? Here are some of the best reasons:

• You’ll have an instrument that will last a lifetime. Brass is incredibly durable, so your investment will pay off in the long run.
• A brass snare drum will give you a richer, fuller sound than other materials. This is due to the way brass resonates, which gives it a warmer tone.
• Brass is also highly versatile. It can be used for any genre of music, from jazz to rock to classical. So no matter what style you’re playing, a brass snare drum will fit right in.
• Snare drums help set tempo and keep time. This is essential for any band or ensemble, and a brass snare will do the job perfectly.
• Finally, brass snare drums just look cool. They have a classic look that will make you stand out on stage. Plus, they’re sure to impress your friends and family.

So if you’re looking for an instrument that sounds great, lasts long, and looks awesome, then a brass snare drum is the perfect choice for you. Check out our reviews to find the best one for your needs.

Features to consider when choosing a snare drum

Let’s take a look at the different features you should consider when choosing a snare drum:

Drum size

The size of the snare drum is an important consideration. You’ll want to make sure that the drum is large enough to produce the sound you want, but not so large that it’s cumbersome to transport.

Drum shell material

The material of the drum shell will affect both the sound and the weight of the drum. For a brighter sound, choose a brass or aluminum shell. For a darker sound, choose a steel or copper shell. Heavier drums will be more difficult to transport, but they may have better sustain.

Hoops

The hoops are the metal rings that hold the drumhead in place. They also affect the sound of the drum, so you’ll want to choose hoops that are made from the same material as the shell.

There are different types of metal hoops, and each type has its own sound:

• The popular triple-flange can assist you in getting the ideal rimshot, but be aware that they are more difficult to tune and have a tendency to flex more readily than other designs. Nevertheless, they are cherished because they increase stability and a heavier unit can provide a better resonance.
• A double-flange or die cast hoop is also a good choice because it is easier to tune than a triple-flange hoop, but still provides enough stability for a good rimshot. Moreover, it helps the drum to project better and provides a more focused sound.
• Single-flange is the best for resonance and gives you the widest tuning range, but they are not as stable as the other designs and are therefore not recommended for rimshots.
• Another triple design is the inward-flange, however it has a different angle. You’ll appreciate how it can influence the tone of a huge drum and create a dry auditory experience.
• There are also wood hoops, which are not as common but can give your drum a different sound. Wood hoops are usually made from maple or birch and can add warmth to the sound of the drum. [4]

Lugs

Lugs are the hardware that attaches the hoops to the shell. The number of lugs on a snare drum affects both the sound and the weight of the drum. Heavier drums will have more lugs, which means they’ll be able to withstand more tension. This results in a higher pitch and longer sustain. Lighter drums will have fewer lugs, which means they won’t be able to withstand as much tension. This results in a lower pitch and shorter sustain.

Overall dimensions and weight

These are important considerations if you plan on transporting your drum frequently. A larger drum will be more difficult to transport, but it will also have a bigger sound. A smaller drum will be easier to transport, but it will have a smaller sound.

Extra features

Some snare drums come with extra features that can be useful, such as a built-in stand or a carrying case. These features are not essential, but they can make your life easier. Furthemore, some snares come with a snare wire, which is a metal coil that helps produce a higher pitch.

Price

Of course, you’ll also want to consider your budget when choosing a snare drum. The price of a snare drum can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to find a balance between quality and price. You don’t want to spend too much money on a drum that you’re not going to use, but you also don’t want to spend too little money on a drum that’s not going to sound good.

In conclusion, there are many factors to consider when choosing a snare drum. The size, material, and weight of the drum will all affect the sound. The number of lugs and the type of hoops will also affect the sound. And finally, the price is an important consideration. But don’t forget that the most important thing is to find a drum that you like the sound of. Now that you know what to look for in a snare drum!

Snare drum maintenance and care

Brass snare drums are generally low-maintenance instruments. However, there are a few things you can do to keep your drum sounding its best.

Clean It Up

Removing an old drum head creates a lot of opportunities for preventative maintenance on the rest of your snare, much like when guitarists swap out their strings. Cleaning the drum is the beginning and the conclusion of this.

You’ll notice that any extra stick dust, dried-up moon gel, and other mysterious items fall out of your hoops and the head’s rim once you remove the old heads you’re replacing; half the battle is already won there.

However, for the remainder, simply wrap a cloth or paper towel around the drum’s perimeter to collect any leftovers. An air compressor or a can of compressed air, which are frequently available in office supply stores, are excellent tools to have for this job.

By doing so, you may blow air into the drum’s smallest crevices and clean rid of any debris or dust that may be there.

Additionally, this offers you the opportunity to examine the drum shell’s bearing edge. Given the enormous amount of tonal variance that well-cut (and poorly-cut) bearing edges have on your drum, this may be the most crucial component of the shell’s construction. When changing out heads, the bearing edges will accumulate any of the above-mentioned junk and must be cleaned in order to preserve the tone of the new head. Moving a towel over the edge and, if you have any, spraying it with compressed air will take care of cleaning the edge.

Hardware Diagnostic

It’s a good idea to examine the drum hardware once it has been cleaned, especially for snare drums that include extra hardware like throw-offs, snare wires, and mufflers. But the most fundamental aspect of this stage is tightening screws.

With a screwdriver, go around the drum’s perimeter and check the tightness of each screw. The drum tone you work so hard to get in recordings can frequently be ruined by an unwelcome rattle or, in rare situations, a high-pitched buzz caused by a loose screw.

Additionally, this is the ideal time to check the condition of your lugs and hoops. When looking for undesirable snare buzz later on, it can be quicker to unscrew the lugs, inspect any rusted or squeezed lug springs, and clean them as necessary.

Simply stretch out the springs a little and reinstall them if they are even slightly compressed. Throwing pieces of cotton into the cavity will act as a kind of dampener if the buzz continues.

The main thing to check for while evaluating the hoops is any bent or out-of-level pieces that would prevent correct tuning. When you discover a bend in your hoop, the best course of action is to carefully realign it using a table-mounted vise and some cloth to avoid scratching it.

Head Installation and Tuning

You will typically only need to replace your snare’s batter head because, by nature, the resonant head lasts far longer than your batter head. However, it’s preferable to install your heads and then tune the resonant head first with the snares off if you ever need to change a resonant head or just feel like changing things up on the snare side.

This won’t be a major concern because you’ve already removed your snare wires for hardware maintenance, but if you’re tuning your resonant head on the fly, there’s no need to remove the straps from your snares.

Simply release the snare throw-off and rest a drumstick on either side of the hoop across the diameter of your snare, in between the snare wires and head. You can tune more precisely because your snares are kept out of the way while doing so.

If suitable procedures aren’t followed, the tension on each lug might damage your new snare head as well as the tone and timbre of your snare.

Tap on the drum head with a drumstick or your drum key about an inch or two from the lug close to the hoop.

Once you’ve sufficiently adjusted each lug, you can start the fine-tuning stage and jump around to each one to make the necessary adjustments. You’ll be prepared to play after repeating these steps for the batter head.

It’s crucial to remember that the batter and resonant heads can have different tunings; for instance, the batter head might be tuned higher than the resonant head. Since there is no one right way to tune drums, always prepare to experiment with various tuning techniques for the heads you are using.

A little amount of experimentation is required to achieve the ideal tone, which is really satisfying.

Popular manufacturers of snare drums

DW. Many drummers all around the world have their hearts set on the DW Collectors Series kit. You can play on some of the highest-quality drum sets available with these DW kits. These are drums that can be used on the largest stages in the world thanks to the extensive work that DW put into creating them and personalizing them for each buyer.

Yamaha. Yamaha is one of the most popular companies when it comes to musical instruments, and that extends to their drums as well. They have a wide range of options available for all levels of drummer, from beginner to professional.

Ludwig. Ludwig has been around for over a century, and in that time they have built up a reputation as one of the premier manufacturers of high-quality drum sets. Their Classic Maple series is their flagship line, and it is prized by drummers all over the world for its combination of beauty and power.

Pearl. Pearl is another company with a long history in the world of drums, and they are known for making some of the best entry-level drums on the market.

Tama. Tama is a Japanese company that has been making drums for over 40 years. They are known for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, and their Starclassic line is one of the most popular on the market. If you are looking for a high-end drum set, Tama should be at the top of your list.

These are just a few of the most popular companies when it comes to snare drums. Do some research and find the perfect one for you. With so many options available, there is sure to be something out there that meets your needs and fits your budget.

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FAQ

What is the best snare drum of all time?

This is a difficult question to answer. There are so many great snare drums out there, it’s hard to choose just one. However, if we had to narrow it down, we would say the DW Collector’s Series Snare Drum is the best of all time.

This snare drum is made with high-quality materials and construction, and it features a beautiful finish that will make any drummer stand out. It also has a great sound that can be tuned to your liking.

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line brass snare drum, the DW Collector’s Series is the way to go.

What is the best material for a snare drum?

The best material for a snare drum depends on your preferences. Some people prefer the sound of wood, while others like the look and feel of metal.

If you’re looking for a snare drum with a great sound, we recommend going with one made of wood. If you want a snare drum that looks amazing, we suggest choosing one made of metal.

No matter what material you choose, make sure it’s something that you’re comfortable with and that you think sounds great.

What is the best size for a snare drum?

The best size for a snare drum also depends on your preferences. Some people prefer smaller drums because they’re easier to transport, while others like larger drums because they have a fuller sound.

If you’re not sure what size to get, we recommend going with a 14″ or 16″ drum. These sizes are versatile and will work well for most people.

What is the best snare for metal?

If you’re looking for a great metal snare drum, we recommend the DW Collector’s Series Snare Drum. This drum is made with high-quality and construction, and it features a beautiful finish that will make any drummer stand out. It also has a great sound that can be tuned to your liking.

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line brass snare drum, the DW Collector’s Series is the way to go.

What is the best snare for rock?

There are a few things to consider when purchasing a snare drum for rock.

First, you’ll want to make sure the drum can handle high volume and constant abuse.

Second, you’ll want a drum with a good amount of attack so that it cuts through the mix.

Finally, you’ll want to choose a size that is appropriate for the type of music you’re playing.

How do I choose the right drumsticks?

When choosing drumsticks, it is important to consider the type of music you will be playing.

For example, if you are playing a lot of hard rock or metal, you will want to use thicker sticks that can withstand more abuse.

If you are playing lighter styles of music, such as jazz or pop, then you will want to use thinner sticks that won’t overpower the sound of your drums.

It is also important to choose a stick that is comfortable for you to hold and that feels good when you play.

There are many different types and sizes of drumsticks available, so it is important to try out several different pairs before making a purchase.

The best way to find the right pair of sticks is to ask a friend or instructor for a recommendation, or to try out several pairs at a music store.

How can I make my snare drum sound better?

There are a few things you can do to make your snare drum sound better.

First, you can try different types of heads to see which ones produce the sound you like best.

Second, you can experiment with different tuning techniques to get the pitch and tone that you want.

Third, you can add or remove muffling devices to change the sustain and resonance of your drum.

Finally, you can try different kinds of sticks and beaters to find the ones that produce the sound you prefer.

By experimenting with these various elements, you can find the perfect combination that will make your snare drum sound exactly how you want it to.​

What makes a student snare drum different from a pro drum?

Student snare drums are typically less expensive and have simpler features than pro drums.

They are also usually smaller in size, which makes them easier to transport and store.

Pro drums are usually made of higher quality materials and have more advanced features, such as multiple tension rods and adjustable throw-offs. They are also usually larger in size, which gives them a fuller sound.

If you are just starting out, a student snare drum is a great option.

As you become more experienced, you may want to upgrade to a pro drum in order to get the best sound possible.​