Gretsch Renown Series Snare Drum Review

Gretsch Renown Series Snare Drum

To Kit or Not To Kit.

The Gretsch Renown Series snare drum is available in three sizes. They can be bought as part of a kit or as an add-on depending on your preference.

• 5×14 available in a kit or as an add-on snare
• 6.5×14 ditto
• 5.5×14 available only in a kit

We’re not sure of the rationale there, but that’s Gretsch’s call.

Rebirth of the Renown

Gretsch revamped the Renown Series and rebirthed it in 2016. Due to the change, we are reviewing the new snares.

Drummers respect the used Gretsch Renown Series snare. If you pick one up, expect brilliant sound. However, the vintage Renown snare might come at a pretty penny, if the instrument is in good condition. They are considered classic snare drums.

Now, back to the new drums.

Gretsch rebuilt the Renown series with a purpose – Versatility. It says these drums are the right choice for music genres from “the 1950s…60s…70s…80s…90s and beyond.”

Well, we’re here to find out if the drums walk that impressive talk.

FWIW, Connor Denis of Beartooth fame came on board in 2016 to play and promote the Renown Series. Here’s an interesting story. When Connor signed with Gretsch, he ordered the brand’s USA fully custom kit. Before it arrived, Gretsch sent him a Renown Series kit. Guess which one Connor prefers and plays on tour? The Gretsch Renown drums are his choice.

Gretsch Renown Series Snares

Again, your size options are 5×14, 5.5×14 and 6.5×14. In all sizes, construction is the same, and the sound starts with the shell.

The company chose its go-to 7-ply Gretsch formula maple shells with 30-degree bearing edges. The manufacturer coats the interior of the shells with secret-formula Silver Sealer used since the 1950s. It’s sound-reflection adds richness to the tone of the drum. Check out the link to learn what it’s like Inside The Gretsch Drum Factory.

Gretsch Renown Series Snare Drum Information

Beyond the shells:

• Gretsch chose the “302” double-flanged hoops used in the Brooklyn and Broadkaster Series snares that drummers enthuse about. They’re lighter than die cast hoops and produce optimal resonance.
• The Renown Series includes coated USA Ambassador batter and the Gretsch by Remo Resonant heads.
• Four lacquered and four Delmar wrapped coatings take a beating and keep the shell finish looking good.
• 8 finishes give you both color and design options. For example, Vintage Pearl and Silver Oyster Pearl look very different.
• The company builds the snares in its Ridgeland, SC plant.

Likes

Because of its purpose, Gretsch put its signature, proven technology and components into these drums. While the company is known for innovation, in this case, it stuck with what it does best, and it clearly works.

Versatility isn’t just talk – it does walk the walk. We’ve tuned it low, middle and high, and sound is exactly what you want from rumble to crack.

As a result of the included heads you won’t have to switch them out for sound sake.

Complete Gretsch Renown Series kits in four configurations are just as compelling.

Due to the quality components, these are pro drums. It’s that simple, but at half the cost of custom.

Dislikes

The price isn’t too high. They’re not cheap either. The superior sound comes at a price. The drums might not deliver good sound-to-price value for beginners. Veterans will get tremendous ROI.

Oh – the 5.5×14 isn’t available separately at this time.

Overall 5 Stars

We skimp on 5-star ratings, as you can see by scanning our library of snare drum reviews. The Gretsch Renown series snare earned it. We’re confident you’ll agree if you make the investment.

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