What is the shell material of this DW Collector's snare?

The shell is made from heavy-gauge aluminium. This material is chosen for its ability to provide a bright attack while maintaining a strong low-end response.

How does the 13-inch diameter affect the sound?

The 13-inch diameter typically results in a higher fundamental pitch and a quicker stick response compared to 14-inch drums. It allows for a sharper 'pop' while the 5.5-inch depth maintains body.

What is unique about the finish on this drum?

It features a wrinkle-coated finish rather than a polished metal surface. This coating helps to reduce the high-pitched metallic overtones and 'ring' often associated with metal snare drums.

What are DW True Hoops?

True Hoops are 3.0mm steel triple-flanged hoops included with this drum. They provide the weight and stability of die-cast hoops while allowing the drum to breathe like a traditional flanged hoop.

What are True-Pitch tension rods?

True-Pitch rods feature a tighter thread pattern than standard tension rods. This allows for more precise tuning and helps the drum stay in tune for longer periods during heavy play.

What drumheads come standard with this snare?

The drum is factory-fitted with high-quality Remo drumheads. These are designed to complement the aluminium shell's natural resonance and brightness.

How much does the DW Collector's Aluminium Snare typically cost?

In the UK market, this snare drum typically retails for approximately £639. This reflects its status as a professional-grade instrument within the Collector's Series line.

Does this drum produce a lot of metallic ring?

No, the heavy-gauge aluminium and wrinkle coating are specifically designed to reduce metallic sounds. It offers a drier, more controlled sound than thin-shelled metal snares.

How does this compare to the DW Stainless Steel snare?

While the Stainless Steel model is often brighter and more aggressive, the Aluminium model is generally considered more balanced. It offers a 'bottom-heavy' sound with a more controlled decay.

Is this snare drum suitable for all genres?

Yes, its combination of brightness and low-end makes it highly versatile. It is equally capable in high-volume rock settings and more controlled studio environments.

What hardware finish is used on this model?

The drum comes equipped with high-quality chrome hardware. This includes the lugs, hoops, and throw-off mechanism, providing a classic look against the wrinkle-coated shell.

Is the DW Collector's Series considered an entry-level line?

No, the Collector's Series is DW's flagship professional line. These drums are designed for touring professionals and recording artists, featuring their highest specifications and build quality.

Gear article

DW Drums Collector's Series 13" x 5.5" Aluminium Snare Drum

The DW Collector's Series 13" x 5.5" Aluminium Snare Drum is a professional-grade percussion instrument featuring a heavy-gauge aluminium shell and a specialised wrinkle-coated finish. Designed to bridge the gap between metal and wood characteristics, it offers a bright attack with significant low-end presence while minimising unwanted metallic overtones.

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Overview and Construction

Part of the flagship Collector's Series, this snare drum is constructed from a heavy-gauge aluminium shell. Unlike traditional polished metal drums, this model features a distinctive wrinkle-coated finish. This textured coating is functional rather than merely aesthetic, as it assists in dampening the high-frequency ringing often associated with thin-walled metal shells.

The drum is equipped with professional-tier DW hardware, including 3.0mm steel True Hoops and True-Pitch tension rods. These rods feature a finer thread count compared to standard tension bolts, allowing for more precise tuning increments and better stability under heavy playing conditions.

Sound Character

The 13" x 5.5" dimensions provide a naturally higher fundamental pitch and a faster response than a standard 14" drum. Despite the smaller diameter, the aluminium shell provides a 'bottom-heavy' sound that ensures the drum does not sound thin.

Key sonic attributes include: * Reduced Ring: The heavy-gauge construction and coating reduce the 'pingy' metallic sounds found in standard aluminium snares. * Brightness: Maintains the crisp, cutting attack expected from a metal drum. * Sensitivity: Equipped with high-quality Remo drumheads, the drum remains responsive across various dynamic levels.

British Drum Company British Drum Co. Maverick 14 x 5.5 Maple Snare Drum

Suitability

This snare is suited for drummers seeking a versatile workhorse that combines the projection of metal with a more controlled, wood-like decay. Its 13-inch diameter makes it an excellent choice for players who prefer a tighter setup or a slightly higher-tuned 'crack' without sacrificing the body of the note. It is positioned as a high-end instrument capable of outperforming many other drums in the £600+ price bracket.

Market Comparisons

When compared to other metal drums in the Collector's Series, such as the 14" x 5.5" Stainless Steel model, the Aluminium version offers a drier, more focused tone. For those considering wood alternatives, the British Drum Co. Maverick 14" x 5.5" Maple Snare Drum provides a warmer, more traditional resonance, whereas the DW Aluminium snare provides more bite.

Compared to boutique or limited options like the Tama Starclassic Performer LTD Edition, the DW Collector's series focuses on heavy-duty hardware and tuning precision as its primary competitive advantages.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of this DW Collector's snare?: The shell is made from heavy-gauge aluminium. This material is chosen for its ability to provide a bright attack while maintaining a strong low-end response.
How does the 13-inch diameter affect the sound?: The 13-inch diameter typically results in a higher fundamental pitch and a quicker stick response compared to 14-inch drums. It allows for a sharper 'pop' while the 5.5-inch depth maintains body.
What is unique about the finish on this drum?: It features a wrinkle-coated finish rather than a polished metal surface. This coating helps to reduce the high-pitched metallic overtones and 'ring' often associated with metal snare drums.
What are DW True Hoops?: True Hoops are 3.0mm steel triple-flanged hoops included with this drum. They provide the weight and stability of die-cast hoops while allowing the drum to breathe like a traditional flanged hoop.
What are True-Pitch tension rods?: True-Pitch rods feature a tighter thread pattern than standard tension rods. This allows for more precise tuning and helps the drum stay in tune for longer periods during heavy play.
What drumheads come standard with this snare?: The drum is factory-fitted with high-quality Remo drumheads. These are designed to complement the aluminium shell's natural resonance and brightness.
How much does the DW Collector's Aluminium Snare typically cost?: In the UK market, this snare drum typically retails for approximately £639. This reflects its status as a professional-grade instrument within the Collector's Series line.
Does this drum produce a lot of metallic ring?: No, the heavy-gauge aluminium and wrinkle coating are specifically designed to reduce metallic sounds. It offers a drier, more controlled sound than thin-shelled metal snares.
How does this compare to the DW Stainless Steel snare?: While the Stainless Steel model is often brighter and more aggressive, the Aluminium model is generally considered more balanced. It offers a 'bottom-heavy' sound with a more controlled decay.
Is this snare drum suitable for all genres?: Yes, its combination of brightness and low-end makes it highly versatile. It is equally capable in high-volume rock settings and more controlled studio environments.
What hardware finish is used on this model?: The drum comes equipped with high-quality chrome hardware. This includes the lugs, hoops, and throw-off mechanism, providing a classic look against the wrinkle-coated shell.
Is the DW Collector's Series considered an entry-level line?: No, the Collector's Series is DW's flagship professional line. These drums are designed for touring professionals and recording artists, featuring their highest specifications and build quality.