Hey Tex...what depth and diameter are you thinking about? And you are correct sir, so many choices.....
First a little background. I currently play Tama Imperialstars (all Poplar). I'm going to be buying an upgraded kit soon and have pretty much decided on a Gretsch Renown Maple set. However, instead of buying the matching snare with the Renowns, I'd like to buy a snare, separately.
I play a mix of music from worship to country to folk/americana to classic rock. I'm thinking I really would like a metal snare as opposed to wood, for this one. Budget for the snare is about $300.
Any suggestions of ones to look at? I've been shopping online and boy are the possibilities endless.
Thanks,
Tex
Hey Tex...what depth and diameter are you thinking about? And you are correct sir, so many choices.....
Oh yeah....
14 x 6.5 or 14 x 7
Tex, I'm seeing a ton of pro-level snares metal snares but in used condition. Do you have your heart set on a new snare for that price range? If yes, the choices get much narrower. I see a new Ludwig 8x14" Black Magic for $389 but a bit over your price range. I have a new Ludwig Black Beauty 6.5x14" Supra-Phonic on layaway for $590. I bought the 5x14" Black Beauty about 5 years ago and it impressed me so much, I had to have the 6.5 x 14" model!!
Ludwig Black Magic 8x14" $389 USD at Big Box Store prices:
From Ludwig:
"Ludwig poineered the black-nickel over brass shell concept in the early 1920's, setting a standard that all others would follow. Black Magic Snare Drums bring that signature sound and quality to a whole new playing spectrum, with four models to satisfy any playing situation. Accentuated with matching tube lugs and die-cast hoops, Black Magic snares deliver classic tone that drummers have come to expect from Ludwig."
Last edited by late8; 01-14-2013 at 05:33 PM.
Thanks Late. That one was on my list, so good to know someone has had good experience with it. I've actually found the 14x6.5 for $300 down here, too. Thanks for the help!
I have a Black Beauty SS, a Black Magic, and a Acrolite. You can make any 1 of them sound good with some decent tuning.
You can also get cheaper ones from worldmax. Same frame than in black magic.
Very good snares in good price.
I've got a Brass Pearl Sensitone that i'm loving, mines only 14x5 with die-casts, but im pretty sure they do 6.5, should be nicely in budget too!
+1 Pearl Sensitone's. solid drums, super value.
don't put off till tomorrow what you can put off today
Thanks for the tips!
Most of the beaded black brass snare drums will sound closely the same and they all will sound good with the right heads and tuning. Worldmax makes most of the shells for the Black Beauty knock off drums, even the Ludwig Black Magic. I have three different black brass snares from three different manufactures and love them all but my fav is still the Black Magic 8 x 14.
We can all tell you what our favorite snare is but you have to play it.
My .02 is this, go to a few music stores and play as many snares as you can, let your ears tell you.
If you end up really liking something out of your price range, take your time and find one used.
Wish I could help, but I favor wood snares over metal. Hit a nice shop and play a few. You'll find something you like.
^Great demo video LG..I remember it well!!
I got my DW brass used for around 300, but if you cant find a deal on one of those i suggest as the others have, some form of brass shell. Ive seen alot of Pork Pie "big black" snare drums go for very cheap used, and they are a great drum (was going to buy one of those but found the DW). Good luck on your search.
In a word...LUDWIG
in two words...Any Ludwig
all the best...
Thanks everyone. Great demo Longgun - much appreciated. I think I have decided on the Ludwig Black Magic in 14 x 6.5 or maybe even 14 x 8.
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