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Picking the Proper Snare Drum


As you place your drum kit together, you will certainly want to put in a snare drum into your mix. Also called a negative drum, this versatile tool delivers a vast range of sounds. From the typical wire-enhanced trap sound, to the time-honored rim shot. Let's take a look at this integral instrument and how various factors influence its sound and durability. Our intention is to help you choose the ideal snare drum to your style.

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Choose the Size to the Sound You Want

The depth of the drum impacts the thickness of the noise. All are 5 to 6 inches deep, although some go as heavy as 8 inches, with a corresponding depth of sound. Standard snare drums are 5 inches deep with a 14 inch diameter, and will be the mainstay size for jazz, country, and rock drummers. These are showcased on the kits of those playing metal/heavy metal and funk.

Similarly for diameter. A smaller diameter drum will have a higher pitch than a larger diameter mind. Again, it's something you need to hear for yourself to see if it's a sound that you want. The blend of casing diameter and thickness makes its sonic footprint.

Deep snares are sometimes used as alternatives on rock eyeglasses, or on drum and bass set ups. Piccolo snare drums are typically just 3 inches deep with a 13 inch diameter, and that keeps the noise crisper using a high pitch. Piccolos tend to be more prominent on the kits of drummers playing pop, reggae, jazz and hip. A lighter, brighter sound is accomplished, and the piccolo is frequently used as a second or alternative snare on the kit.

What It Is Constructed of Determines What it is Made For

Snare drums produce different sounds depending on the materials they're composed of. Jazz snare drums are usually made of brass or wood, with walnut being the overriding material. This gives the drum a rich, deep sound. Rockers like snare drums made from stainless steel and that distinct and louder sound makes it noticed against electrical guitar riffs. Metal drummers and punk rockers like a snare drum that makes a lot of noise at higher pitch. And it must handle some pretty heavy action. Their snare drums usually include materials such as bronze, aluminum, brass, or synthetics such as carbon dioxide or acrylic.

The Difference the Head Makes

The drumhead the drummer strikes will greatly affect the sound. Funk drummers such as a closely tuned head made from durable material that will deliver instant, full-bodied sound. Those favoring punk seem to prefer a tighter set up that produces crisper sound and action. Jazz drummers usually outfit their snares using a textured drumhead that enhances the nuanced, muted sound they desire. And rockers need a slightly muffled sound rippling through a heavy drumhead. For them, the right drum head gives the trap more"thump" and not as"crack."

More tightly tuned heads will prove less durable, regardless of material. But the difference is not so great that you should let it affect your own set up. Tune the head to your own style, and let it rip. Most heads will give you a good return on your investment.

Conclusion

When you put your set together, or pick a snare drum for an existing set, consider your needs and style. Then select the right snare drum that will deliver the audio you are searching for.

For more details check out snare drum.