THE BLUFFERS GUIDE TO | SNARE DRUMS
| When buying a snare drum as a beginner, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important things to look for: Drum Size: Snare drums come in various sizes, typically measured by diameter and depth. A common size for beginners is a 14-inch diameter and 5.5-6.5-inch depth, as it offers a versatile sound suitable for different genres. Construction and Material: Snare drums can be made of different materials like wood, metal (such as brass or steel), or acrylic. Each material produces a distinct sound. Wood snare drums are warm and versatile, while metal snare drums tend to have a brighter and more cutting sound. Consider the sound characteristics you prefer and choose accordingly. Snare Wires: The snare wires, also known as the snare bed, are the metal wires that run across the bottom head of the drum. They produce the snare sound when the drum is struck. Ensure that the snare wires are properly tensioned, adjustable, and in good condition. Drumhead Quality: The drumhead greatly affects the overall sound. Look for a drum with a high-quality, durable drumhead. Some drums come with factory heads, while others may require you to purchase drumheads separately. Remo and Evans are reputable brands known for producing reliable drumheads. Hardware and Adjustability: Check the drum’s hardware, including the lugs, throw-off mechanism, and tension rods. Ensure that they are sturdy and allow for easy adjustment. A good throw-off mechanism will enable you to engage and disengage the snare wires smoothly. Budget: Consider your budget and find a snare drum that fits within your price range. As a beginner, you don’t necessarily need the most expensive drum. There are quality options available at various price points. Brand Reputation: Research reputable drum brands known for their quality and reliability. Some well-known brands include Ludwig, Pearl, Yamaha, Mapex, and DW (Drum Workshop). Playability and Feel: Lastly, try to play the snare drum or read reviews to get a sense of its playability and feel. Everyone has different preferences, so choose a drum that feels comfortable and responsive to your playing style. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a snare drum as a beginner. It’s also a good idea to seek advice from a mate who is a experienced drummer |
CHANGING THE SOUND
Once you have purchased a snare drum, there are several ways you can change its sound to suit your preferences. Here are some common methods to modify the snare drum’s sound: Snare Wire Adjustment: The tension of the snare wires greatly affects the snare drum’s sound. You can adjust the tension by using the snare strainer or throw-off mechanism located on the side of the drum. Tightening the wires produces a crisp and sensitive response, while loosening them creates a more relaxed and buzzy sound. Experiment with different tension levels to find the desired snare response. Snare Wire Replacement: If you want to significantly alter the sound of your snare drum, you can try replacing the snare wires themselves. Different snare wire models offer unique tonal characteristics. For example, steel wires provide a brighter and more pronounced sound, while nylon or gut wires offer a warmer and vintage tone. Explore different snare wire options to find the sound that suits your style. Drumhead Replacement: Changing the drumhead is another effective way to modify the snare drum’s sound. Drumheads come in various thicknesses, coatings, and materials, each impacting the overall tone. Thinner heads tend to produce more sensitivity and resonance, while thicker heads provide greater durability and control. Experimenting with different drumheads can help you achieve the desired sound. Dampening: Controlling the drum’s resonance through dampening techniques can significantly alter the sound. You can use dampening products like gel pads, moongel, or even household items like tape or cloth to muffle the drumhead. Placing these dampening materials strategically on the drumhead or inside the drum can help control unwanted overtones and create a more focused sound. Drum Tuning: Adjusting the tension of the drumhead at each tension rod affects the overall pitch and tone of the snare drum. Experiment with different tensions on each rod to achieve a desired sound. Higher tension produces a brighter and more focused sound, while lower tension creates a deeper and more open tone. Learning how to tune your drum can significantly impact its sound and versatility. Drum Muffling: If you want to control the sustain or ring of the snare drum, you can add external muffling. This can be achieved by using products like snare drum rings, O-rings, or even applying duct tape or gaffer tape to the drumhead. By strategically placing muffling materials on the drumhead, you can control the length of sustain and achieve a drier sound. Remember, modifying the snare drum’s sound is a creative process, and experimentation is key. Make small adjustments at a time and listen to the changes in sound. It’s also helpful to seek guidance from experienced drummers or drum technicians who can offer insights and techniques specific to your drum and desired sound. |
ADDITIONAL LISTENING
| Here are some more notable popular recordings and the types of snare drums that have been used in them: “Hotel California” by Eagles: Snare Drum: Ludwig LM400 Supraphonic (Standard/Pop Snare Drum) “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin: Snare Drum: Ludwig LM402 Supraphonic (Standard/Pop Snare Drum) “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses: Snare Drum: Pearl Reference Series (Standard/Pop Snare Drum) “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder: Snare Drum: Ludwig Black Beauty (Brass Snare Drum) “Enter Sandman” by Metallica: Snare Drum: Tama Starclassic Maple (Metal Snare Drum) “Hey Jude” by The Beatles: Snare Drum: Ludwig LM400 Supraphonic (Standard/Pop Snare Drum) “Smooth” by Santana ft. Rob Thomas: Snare Drum: DW Collector’s Series (Wood Snare Drum) “Sultans of Swing” by Dire Straits: Snare Drum: Ludwig Black Beauty (Brass Snare Drum) “The Dance” by Fleetwood Mac: Snare Drum: Yamaha Recording Custom (Standard/Pop Snare Drum) “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” by Stevie Wonder: Snare Drum: Yamaha Recording Custom (Standard/Pop Snare Drum) |