the right snare
Within the category of wood shells, there are four types: multiple-ply, one-ply, segment and stave shells. To learn more about the different characteristics of various woods, click here.
Multiple plies have the advantage of strength, but have compromised some sound qualities to achieve their durability. The adhesives used between the plies act as an insulator, inhibiting
the vibration of the shell. These drums are the least expensive of the wooden snare drums.
One-ply shells resonate more freely than multiple-ply shells, which is a large reason for their popularity. They sound great. The disadvantage to one-ply shells is the tendency to go
"out of round". Reinforcement hoops are placed inside the shell to stabilize it, but these hoops choke the drum. One-ply shells do sound great, but they are also the most
expensive of the wooden drums.
Segment and stave shells have very little adhesive to inhibit the vibration of the shell, but they are not a single unit as with the one-ply shell. Some people do not like the look of the
segment shells, but it is remarkably strong and offers great sound and the ability to use woods that might not be available in one-ply shells. Besides being very resonant, these drums are
also worth checking into because of their price point. They are typically less expensive than one-ply shells, and offer terrific resonance and fabulous sound that, in my opinion,
rivals if not surpasses that of one-ply shells.
The stave shells also offer terrific resonance and the ability to use exotic woods, but I have heard of numerous problems with the stave shells "exploding". Since I have no
experience with stave style shells, I do not feel I can offer any more than that at this time.
I strongly encourage anyone looking for a quality wood snare drum to check into both one-ply and segment shells. If you can not find a commercially made drum that fits your needs there are
many custom drum builders throughout the country who can help you in obtaining "your sound", many of whom can do so for less than the cost of a new "big name" drum.
wood snare drum characteristics
1-PLY WHITE ASH: compared to maple, this wood will have a wider tuning range and give a high, crisp sound without requiring a tight head tension. Modern Drummer Magazine described the
sound as "bright and reflective".
1-PLY RED OAK: this drum will have a staccato type sound to it. Notes will be shorter and more defined than with a maple shell. Red Oak will also give a deeper, warmer sound than maple.
TEAK SEGMENT: these drums will be sensitive and have a very wide tuning range. Modern Drummer Magazine described it as "a rich woody tone, with lots of projection". This is a
very versatile snare drum.
PURPLE HEART SEGMENT: these will probably be one of the most resonant drums you will ever hear. Expect a lot of resonance and sensitivity from these drums (if you can find one).
CHERRY SEGMENT: expect these drums to be bright, crisp, and have plenty of "in your face" attitude and projection.
As a general rule, segment shells will favor "highs" more so than a 1-ply shell of the same wood. There are of course other variables involved which effect the sound of the drum,
such as reinforcement hoops and shell thickness, so keep this in mind when searching for your "ideal drum".
top
|
