Best Snare Drum For Metal (2024 Updated)

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If you are a metal drummer, then you know the importance of having the right snare drum. The snare drum is the backbone of your kit and can make or break your performance. Choosing the best snare drum for metal can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Here are 5 key points you should consider when looking for the best snare drum for metal:

1. Material: The material the snare drum is made of is crucial in determining its sound. Metal snare drums, such as steel or brass, are popular among metal drummers because they produce a bright and cutting sound.

2. Size: The size of the snare drum is also important. A snare drum that is 14 inches in diameter and 6.5 inches deep is a standard size for metal drummers. However, some drummers prefer a deeper snare for a more aggressive sound.

3. Snare wires: The number of snare wires and their tension can affect the sound of the snare drum. For metal, a snare drum with 20 or more snare wires and a high tension is ideal.

4. Brand: There are many brands that produce snare drums for metal, but some are more popular than others. Some of the most popular brands among metal drummers include Pearl, Tama, Ludwig, and Mapex.

5. Price: The price of a snare drum can vary greatly, but it's important to invest in a high-quality snare drum that will last. You can find a good snare drum for metal for around $200-$500, but some high-end snare drums can cost over $1000.

In summary, when looking for the best snare drum for metal, consider the material, size, snare wires, brand, and price. By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the perfect snare drum to take your metal drumming to the next level.

10 Best Snare Drum For Metal

1. Dw Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum – 8-Inch X 14-Inch – Satin Black Over Brass – Gold Hardware

The DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is a top-of-the-line drum that is perfect for professional drummers who are looking for a high-quality instrument that delivers excellent sound and performance. This drum is made from high-quality materials and features an 8-inch x 14-inch brass shell that is 1.0mm thick, making it sturdy and durable enough to withstand the rigors of frequent use.

The drum features triple-flanged hoops that are 3.0mm thick, which help to provide a clear and articulate sound. The hoops are also designed to provide excellent tuning stability, so you can be sure that your drum will stay in tune even during long and intense playing sessions. The drum is finished in a beautiful satin black over brass finish that gives it a sleek and stylish look.

The gold hardware on the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is another standout feature that makes this drum a must-have for any professional drummer. The gold hardware adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the drum, and it also helps to enhance the durability and longevity of the instrument.

Overall, the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is an excellent choice for professional drummers who demand the best in terms of sound, performance, and quality. Whether you're playing in a studio, on stage, or at home, this drum will provide you with the high-quality sound and performance that you need to take your drumming to the next level. So if you're looking for a top-of-the-line snare drum that delivers exceptional sound and performance, look no further than the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum.

2. Dw Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum – 8 X 14 Inch – Satin Black Over Brass

The DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum – 8 x 14 inch – Satin Black Over Brass is a top-of-the-line snare drum that has been designed to meet the needs of professional drummers. This drum is made from high-quality materials and features a sleek and stylish design that is sure to turn heads on stage.

The snare drum measures 8 inches by 14 inches and is made from 1.0mm brass shell, which provides a warm and crisp sound that is perfect for a variety of musical genres. The drum also features 3.0mm triple-flanged hoops, which provide added durability and help to produce a consistent sound.

The Satin Black Over Brass finish on the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum gives it a sophisticated and modern look that is sure to impress. The black finish not only looks great but also helps to protect the drum from scratches and other damage.

One of the key features of this snare drum is its versatility. The warm and crisp sound of the brass shell is perfect for rock, pop, and metal music, while the triple-flanged hoops provide a more traditional sound that is ideal for jazz and blues. This makes the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum a great choice for drummers who play a variety of musical styles.

Another great feature of this snare drum is its ease of use. The drum is lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for drummers who perform on stage regularly. The drum also comes with a variety of tuning options, allowing drummers to adjust the sound to their liking.

Overall, the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum – 8 x 14 inch – Satin Black Over Brass is an excellent choice for professional drummers who are looking for a high-quality snare drum that is versatile, easy to use, and looks great on stage. With its warm and crisp sound, durable construction, and modern design, this snare drum is sure to impress even the most discerning musicians.

3. Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum Chrome 6.5×14

The Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum Chrome 6.5X14 is a high-quality snare drum designed to deliver a bright, cutting, and crisp sound that is ideal for a wide range of music styles. With its 14" x 6-1/2" dimensions, this snare drum is perfect for styles ranging from symphonic to arena rock.

This snare drum is constructed with a durable chrome metal shell that provides excellent tonal qualities. Its bright and cutting sound is reminiscent of classic pop and jazz hits from the last several decades. The Supraphonic snares are wonderfully responsive, which makes them a favorite among drummers.

The triple-flanged hoops on this snare drum enhance its responsiveness and provide a more open and resonant sound. This feature makes it easier for drummers to achieve the perfect tone and projection they desire for their music.

The 6-1/2" deep version of the Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum produces deep and fat tones with excellent projection, making it a popular choice among drummers who want a snare drum with a big sound. The combination of its size, construction, and design makes this snare drum a reliable and versatile instrument for any drummer, regardless of their experience level.

In conclusion, the Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum Chrome 6.5X14 is a top-of-the-line snare drum that is perfect for drummers looking to add a bright and cutting sound to their music. Its durable construction, responsive snares, and triple-flanged hoops make it a versatile and reliable instrument that is perfect for use in a wide range of music styles. Whether you are a professional drummer or just starting, this snare drum is an excellent choice for any musician looking to take their sound to the next level.

4. Dw Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum – 5.5 X 14 Inch – Satin Black Over Brass

The DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is a top-tier drumming instrument that delivers exceptional sound quality and durability. This snare drum features a 5.5" x 14" brass shell that is 1.0mm thick, which gives it a warm and bright tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres.

The drum is finished in a sleek Satin Black Over Brass color that gives it a modern and stylish look that will impress any audience. The finish is also designed to be durable and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that the drum looks and sounds great for years to come.

The DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum also features 3.0mm triple-flanged hoops that provide excellent tuning stability and rimshot response. This means that the drum can be tuned to any pitch and played with great precision, making it a versatile and reliable instrument for drummers of all skill levels.

The snare drum is also designed to be easy to play, with a comfortable and ergonomic design that is perfect for long practice sessions and live performances. The drum is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great option for drummers who need to travel frequently or perform in different locations.

Overall, the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is an exceptional instrument that is perfect for drummers who demand the best. With its high-quality materials, excellent construction, and superior sound quality, this drum is sure to impress even the most discerning musicians. Whether you are a professional drummer or a serious hobbyist, the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is a must-have addition to your drumming arsenal.

5. Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum Brass 14 X 5 In.

The Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum Brass 14 x 5 in. is a highly versatile and sought-after snare drum that is ideal for a wide range of musical styles, from symphonic to arena rock. This snare drum is designed to deliver a bright, cutting, and crisp sound that can be heard on a multitude of classic pop and jazz hits of the last several decades.

One of the most notable features of the Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum is its chrome metal shell construction, which is known for producing a wonderfully responsive sound. This quality is further enhanced by the drum's triple-flanged hoops, which provide excellent sensitivity and articulation.

Measuring 14" x 6-1/2", this snare drum is capable of producing deep, fat tones and great projection. Whether you're playing in a small jazz ensemble or a large stadium rock band, the Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum is sure to deliver the sound and performance you need.

In addition to its exceptional sound quality, the Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum is also built to last. Its durable construction ensures that it can withstand the wear and tear of regular use, making it a great investment for any serious musician.

Overall, the Ludwig Supraphonic Snare Drum Brass 14 x 5 in. is a top-of-the-line snare drum that is beloved by musicians of all levels and genres. Whether you're a professional drummer or an aspiring musician, this snare drum is sure to become a staple in your collection.

6. Dw Collector's Series 8×14 Satin Black Brass Snare Drum W/black Nickel Hardware.

The DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is a top-of-the-line percussion instrument that delivers exceptional sound quality and durability. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this snare drum is the perfect choice for professional drummers who demand the best.

Featuring an 8-inch by 14-inch size and a 1.0mm brass shell, this snare drum boasts a rich, full-bodied sound that is perfect for a wide range of genres, from rock and pop to jazz and fusion. The brass shell is also highly durable, ensuring that the drum will withstand the rigors of regular use and maintain its sound quality for years to come.

To further enhance the sound of this snare drum, it is equipped with 3.0mm triple-flanged hoops that provide excellent resonance and projection. These hoops are designed to provide a balanced and consistent sound across the entire drum, allowing drummers to achieve the perfect tone for their music.

The satin black over brass finish of this snare drum adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to its appearance. The black nickel hardware also complements the finish, providing a sleek and stylish look that is sure to impress.

Whether you are a professional drummer or a serious hobbyist, the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is an excellent choice. With its exceptional sound quality, durability, and stylish appearance, this snare drum is sure to be a valuable addition to any drum kit.

7. Meinl Cajon Box Drum W/ Metal Strings & Adjustable Snare – Hardwood W/ Burl Frontplate, 2-Yr Warranty (Caj3mb-M)

The Meinl Cajon Box Drum with Internal Metal Strings is a high-quality percussion instrument that produces a rich and versatile sound. This full-size cajon is made of hardwood with a Makah Burl frontplate, which delivers a punchy bass and articulate snare notes. It also features steel cajon strings that provide a sensitive response and crisp snare notes.

One of the standout features of this cajon is its rear sound port, which allows air to escape and creates maximum resonance. This also makes it an ideal spot for mic placement, ensuring that you can capture the full range of its sound in live or studio settings. Additionally, this cajon comes with a seating pad, which provides comfortable support during extended playing sessions.

The Meinl Cajon Box Drum is perfect for any style of music, and can simulate the sounds of a drumset thanks to its bass and snare drum sounds. It's also equipped with four large rubber feet that keep the instrument stable and protect it from unwanted vibrations, preserving its sound quality.

One of the best things about the Meinl Cajon Box Drum is that it's NOT MADE IN CHINA. Instead, it's crafted with care and attention to detail in Germany, ensuring that you're getting a high-quality instrument that will last for years to come. Additionally, this cajon comes with a 2-YEAR WARRANTY, giving you peace of mind and protection against any potential defects or issues.

In summary, the Meinl Cajon Box Drum with Internal Metal Strings is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality percussion instrument. Whether you're playing in a live setting or recording in the studio, this cajon delivers a rich and resonant sound that's sure to impress. And with its durable construction and 2-YEAR WARRANTY, it's a reliable and long-lasting investment for any musician.

8. Dw Collector's Series Black Brass Snare Drum – 6.5×14 – Black Nickel Hardware.

The DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is a high-quality instrument that provides exceptional sound and durability. This snare drum is made from brass, measuring 6.5 inches by 14 inches, and features a 1.0mm shell with 3.0mm triple-flanged hoops for a powerful and impactful sound. The Satin Black Over Brass finish gives the drum a sleek and stylish look, while the black nickel hardware adds a touch of elegance to the overall design.

The DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is an ideal choice for professional drummers and musicians who require a reliable and versatile snare drum for their performances. The brass construction of this snare drum provides a warm and resonant tone that is perfect for a wide range of styles, from rock and metal to jazz and funk. The 6.5-inch by 14-inch size of the drum offers ample projection and volume, making it suitable for both live performances and studio recordings.

The triple-flanged hoops of the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum ensure that the drumhead stays in place and provides a consistent sound. The hoops are also designed to enhance the overall sustain of the drum, allowing the sound to resonate for longer periods. The black nickel hardware of the snare drum adds an element of sophistication to the overall design while also providing durability and stability.

The Satin Black Over Brass finish of the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is both stylish and practical. The finish not only looks great but also protects the drum from scratches and other forms of damage. This ensures that the snare drum retains its pristine appearance even after years of use.

In conclusion, the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is a top-of-the-line instrument that offers exceptional sound quality and durability. Its brass construction, triple-flanged hoops, and black nickel hardware make it a reliable and versatile snare drum that is suitable for a wide range of musical styles. The Satin Black Over Brass finish adds a touch of elegance to the overall design while also providing protection against scratches and other forms of damage. Whether you're a professional drummer or a music enthusiast, the DW Collector's Series Metal Snare Drum is a must-have instrument that will enhance your performance and take your music to the next level.

9. Griffin 14"x5.5" Poplar Snare Drum With Black Pvc And Coated Head, Drummer's Key, 8 Tuning Lugs, And Snare Strainer Throw Off.

The GRIFFIN Snare Drum is a high-quality acoustic percussion instrument that offers an excellent sound for any music style. The snare drum features a 3-ply, 7.5 mm, 100% poplar wood shell that delivers a powerful crack with beautiful overtones. This makes it ideal for rock, metal, funk, gospel, or pop music. The drum measures 14 inches by 5.5 inches, and it comes with a black PVC wrap and a high-gloss finish that adds a touch of elegance to any drum set.

The GRIFFIN Snare Drum is a versatile musical instrument that can serve as a primary or secondary snare. It is perfect for beginners, students, or professional musicians who want to upgrade their drum set. The drum head top is coated with white while the bottom is clear. This combination of drum heads produces a brilliant attack that is sure to impress any audience.

One of the standout features of the GRIFFIN Snare Drum is its class-leading snare throw-off. The snare strainer is smooth and quiet, allowing you to tighten, loosen or mute the snares according to your preference. The snare wire comprises 12 strands, while the hardware finish is chrome. The drum weighs 6 pounds, making it easy to carry around.

In addition, the GRIFFIN Snare Drum comes with eight very durable tuning lugs that promise a much more stable and higher quality sound compared to six lug drums. This allows you to achieve excellent sound in even the lowest tuning option. The percussion hardware also includes a drum key, making it easy to tune the drum to your desired pitch.

Another impressive feature of the GRIFFIN Snare Drum is the installed snare beds. The snare beds are carved into the drum shell for a tighter snare sound. Curved depressions are cut opposite each other into the bottom bearing edge of the drum, parallel to the throw-off and butt plate. This reduces snare buzz and rattle, making all the snare drum snares rest flush alongside the bottom of the drum head.

In conclusion, the GRIFFIN Snare Drum is a must-have for any drummer who wants to achieve a brilliant attack and beautiful overtones. Its versatile design, class-leading snare throw-off, and installed snare beds make it a worthy addition to any drum set. Whether you are a beginner, student, or professional musician, this snare drum is sure to impress.

Best Snare Drum For Metal FAQs

Are there any specific features or characteristics that make a snare drum particularly well-suited for playing metal?

There are certain features and characteristics that make a snare drum well-suited for playing metal. First, the drum must have a crisp and articulate sound, with a sharp attack and a quick decay. This allows for fast and precise playing, which is essential in metal music. Additionally, the snare drum should have a deep and powerful tone, with a strong low-end and a focused midrange. This helps to cut through the dense mix of distorted guitars and heavy bass, providing a clear and defined rhythm. Finally, the snare drum should be durable and able to withstand the high-energy playing style of metal drumming, with sturdy hardware and a robust construction. Overall, a well-designed metal snare drum should be versatile, responsive, and capable of producing a wide range of dynamic sounds to suit any playing style or genre.

How does the construction and material of a snare drum affect its suitability for metal music?

The construction and material of a snare drum play a significant role in determining its suitability for metal music. A snare drum made of metal, such as steel or brass, produces a bright and cutting sound, which works well for metal genres that require a sharp and aggressive sound. Metal snare drums also tend to have a higher volume and projection, making them suitable for larger venues and louder performances. The thickness and depth of the snare drum shell can also affect its suitability for metal music. Thicker and deeper shells produce a deeper and more resonant sound, which works well for heavier metal genres. Additionally, the type of snare wires used can affect the tone and sensitivity of the drum, with heavier wires producing a more aggressive sound, which is suitable for metal. In conclusion, the construction and material of a snare drum are crucial factors that determine its suitability for metal music.

What are some of the most popular snare drums used by metal drummers today?

Metal drummers typically opt for snare drums that produce a bright and cutting sound with a powerful projection. Some of the most popular snare drums used by metal drummers today include the Pearl Sensitone, the Ludwig Black Beauty, and the Mapex Black Panther. The Pearl Sensitone features a 1.5mm steel shell, making it durable and responsive, while the Ludwig Black Beauty has a brass shell that provides a warm and resonant tone. The Mapex Black Panther, on the other hand, has a maple shell that produces a balanced and versatile sound suitable for a range of metal genres. Other notable options include the Tama SLP G-Maple, the Gretsch Brooklyn, and the DW Collector's Series. Ultimately, the choice of snare drum will depend on the drummer's personal preferences and the sound they are looking to achieve.

What are the best snare drums for achieving a tight, cutting sound in metal music?

When it comes to achieving a tight, cutting snare sound in metal music, there are several options to consider. One popular choice is the Ludwig Black Beauty snare, which is known for its crisp, sharp attack and sensitivity. Another option is the Pearl Sensitone Elite snare, which features a beaded brass shell for a bright, cutting sound.

The Tama SLP G-Bubinga snare is also a great choice, with its thick, heavy shell delivering a powerful punch and tight, focused sound. The Mapex Black Panther snare is another high-quality option, featuring a maple shell and sharp attack for a cutting, precise sound.

Ultimately, the best snare drum for achieving a tight, cutting sound in metal music will depend on personal preference and the specific sound you're looking for. It's important to consider factors such as shell material, size, and tuning options when making your choice.

Which snare drums are known for producing a clear, articulate tone that cuts through heavy distortion?

Snare drums that are known for producing a clear, articulate tone that cuts through heavy distortion are typically made of materials that provide a sharp attack and crisp sound. One of the most popular materials for this purpose is steel, which is often used in heavy metal and hard rock genres. Steel snare drums have a bright, cutting tone that can easily cut through even the heaviest of distortion. Other materials that are commonly used for this purpose include brass and aluminum, which also provide a bright attack and clear tone. Additionally, snare drums with thinner shells and higher tension can produce a more articulate sound that can cut through distortion. Popular snare drum models that are known for their clear and articulate tone include the Ludwig Supraphonic, Pearl Sensitone, and DW Collector's Series. Ultimately, the choice of snare drum will depend on personal preference and the specific sound desired for the music being played.

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