What is the shell material of the Dixon Artisan Enchanted Ash Snare?

The shell is constructed from 9-ply ash wood with a total thickness of 5mm.

What are the dimensions of this snare drum?

The drum measures 14 inches in diameter by 6.5 inches in depth.

What is unique about the Flip-Drop throw-off?

It is a Dixon-exclusive chrome throw-off that is adjustable, allowing the lever to be positioned to the left, right, or centre of the shell.

How does the tuning affect the response of the drum?

Higher tuning provides a precise and rapid response, whereas lower tuning produces a fatter, deeper tone.

What kind of sound character does ash wood provide?

Ash wood in this configuration is known for providing an irresistibly warm tone combined with a high level of attack.

Is this snare suitable for live performances?

Yes, its dominating tone and impeccable attack are specifically designed to fire through any musical mix.

What is the typical price for this model?

The typical price for the Dixon Artisan Enchanted Ash Snare is approximately GBP 584.

How many plies make up the shell?

The shell is composed of 9 individual plies of ash wood.

How does it compare to the British Drum Co. Maverick?

The Maverick uses maple for a classic warm sound, while the Dixon Enchanted Ash uses 9-ply ash for a different character and attack profile.

Is the hardware on the drum adjustable?

Yes, the Flip-Drop throw-off is highly adjustable to suit the player's preference for lever placement.

Does the 5mm shell thickness impact the sound?

Yes, the 5mm 9-ply construction is designed to balance structural integrity with resonance and warmth.

Who is the primary target audience for this snare?

It is aimed at drummers looking to evolve their playing with a high-performance wood snare that offers versatile tuning ranges.

Gear article

Dixon Drums 14 x 6.5 Artisan Series Enchanted Ash Snare Drum

The Dixon Drums 14 x 6.5 Artisan Series Enchanted Ash Snare Drum is a premium wood-shell snare featuring a 9-ply ash construction. It is designed to offer a balance of warmth and aggressive attack, complemented by Dixon's proprietary Flip-Drop throw-off system.

See live prices

Overview

The Artisan Series represents Dixon's high-end drum manufacturing, focusing on specialised tonewoods and ergonomic hardware. The Enchanted Ash model is defined by its 14" x 6.5" dimensions and a 5mm thick shell. By using a 9-ply ash construction, the drum aims to provide a sonic profile that differs from more common maple or birch alternatives, offering a distinct visual grain and specific resonant properties.

Shell Construction and Mechanics

The core of the instrument is a 9-ply ash shell measuring 5mm in thickness. This relatively thin shell construction allows for greater vibration and resonance. A standout mechanical feature is the Dixon exclusive Flip-Drop style throw-off. Finished in chrome, this adjustable mechanism allows the drummer to position the lever to the left, right, or centre of the shell, providing customisable ergonomics to suit different playing styles and kit setups.

Sound Profile

The Enchanted Ash snare is characterised by a dominating tone with a high level of attack, ensuring it remains audible within a dense musical mix. The tonality varies significantly based on tuning:

High Tuning: Delivers a precise, rapid response suitable for technical playing.
Low Tuning: Results in a 'fatter' tone with increased depth.

Overall, the ash wood provides an underlying warmth that balances the initial sharp transient of the strike.

Market Positioning and Comparisons

Sitting in the mid-to-high price bracket at approximately £584, this snare competes with other premium wood and metal drums. While the Sonor AQ2 Maple and British Drum Co. Maverick offer the classic warmth of maple, the Enchanted Ash provides a different aesthetic and a sharper attack. It stands as a wood-based alternative to high-end metal snares like the DW Collectors Series Stainless Steel, offering more organic overtones while maintaining the projection required for loud environments.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of the Dixon Artisan Enchanted Ash Snare?: The shell is constructed from 9-ply ash wood with a total thickness of 5mm.
What are the dimensions of this snare drum?: The drum measures 14 inches in diameter by 6.5 inches in depth.
What is unique about the Flip-Drop throw-off?: It is a Dixon-exclusive chrome throw-off that is adjustable, allowing the lever to be positioned to the left, right, or centre of the shell.
How does the tuning affect the response of the drum?: Higher tuning provides a precise and rapid response, whereas lower tuning produces a fatter, deeper tone.
What kind of sound character does ash wood provide?: Ash wood in this configuration is known for providing an irresistibly warm tone combined with a high level of attack.
Is this snare suitable for live performances?: Yes, its dominating tone and impeccable attack are specifically designed to fire through any musical mix.
What is the typical price for this model?: The typical price for the Dixon Artisan Enchanted Ash Snare is approximately GBP 584.
How many plies make up the shell?: The shell is composed of 9 individual plies of ash wood.
How does it compare to the British Drum Co. Maverick?: The Maverick uses maple for a classic warm sound, while the Dixon Enchanted Ash uses 9-ply ash for a different character and attack profile.
Is the hardware on the drum adjustable?: Yes, the Flip-Drop throw-off is highly adjustable to suit the player's preference for lever placement.
Does the 5mm shell thickness impact the sound?: Yes, the 5mm 9-ply construction is designed to balance structural integrity with resonance and warmth.
Who is the primary target audience for this snare?: It is aimed at drummers looking to evolve their playing with a high-performance wood snare that offers versatile tuning ranges.