Choosing The Right Snare Drum
Every Kit Needs A Snare
As you put your drum kit together, you will certainly want to add a snare to your mix. Also called a side drum, this versatile tool delivers a wide range of sounds, from the standard wire-enhanced snare sound, to the time-honored rim shot. Let’s take a look at this integral tool and how various factors affect the sound and durability of the snare, so you will be able to select the right snare for your style.
Choose The Size For The Sound You Want
The depth of the drum affects the depth of the sound. Most are 5 to 6 inches deep, though some go as deep as 8 inches, with a corresponding depth of sound. Standard snares are 5 inches deep with a 14 inch diameter, and are the mainstay size for jazz, country, and rock drummers, and are featured on the kits of those playing metal/heavy metal and funk.
Deep snares are sometimes used as alternatives on rock kits, or on drum and bass set ups. Piccolo snare drums are typically just 3 inches deep with a 13 inch diameter, which keeps the sound crisper with a higher pitch. Piccolos tend to be more prominent on the kits of drummers playing pop, reggae, jazz and hip-hop. A lighter, brighter sound is achieved, and the piccolo is often used as a second or alternative snare on the kit.
What It Is Made OF Determines What It Is Made FOR
Snares produce different sounds based on the materials they are composed of. Jazz snares are usually made of brass or wood, with maple being the predominant material, which gives the drum a rich, deep sound. Rockers like snares made of stainless steel, which gives the drum a distinct and louder sound that lets it be heard against the backdrop of electric guitar riffs. Metal drummers and punk rockers like a snare that makes a lot of noise at higher pitch, and one that can handle some pretty heavy action. Their snares usually feature materials like aluminum, bronze, brass, or synthetics like carbon fiber or acrylic.
The Difference The Head Makes
The head the drummer strikes will greatly affect the sound. Funk drummers like a tightly tuned head made of durable material that will deliver immediate, full-bodied sound. Those favoring punk seem to prefer a tighter set up that produces crisper action and sound. Jazz drummers usually outfit their snares with a textured head that enhances the nuanced, muffled sound they want. And rockers want a slightly muffled sound rippling through a heavy head, which gives the snare more “thump” and less “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 set up. Tune the head to your style, and let it rip. Most heads will give you a decent return on your investment.
Conclusion
As you put your set together, or select a snare drum for an existing set, consider your needs and style, then choose a snare that will deliver the sound you are listening for.
