What is the shell thickness of this snare?

The shell is constructed from 1mm thick brass that has been rolled and polished for a professional finish.

What type of lugs are used on this drum?

The drum features DW's Performance Series quarter-sized turret lugs, which provide a smaller footprint on the shell than standard DW lugs.

How does the MAG throw-off work?

The MAG throw-off uses a magnetic mechanism to hold the snare lever in the 'up' position, preventing accidental release while allowing for a smooth, fast drop when needed.

What is the function of the 3P Butt Plate?

The 3P (Three-Position) butt plate allows the player to quickly switch between three different snare wire tension settings mid-performance.

What tuning system does this snare use?

It uses DW’s TruePitch tuning tension rods, which feature higher thread counts to allow for more granular and stable tuning adjustments.

What are the dimensions of this specific model?

This specific snare drum has a diameter of 14 inches and a depth of 5.5 inches.

What kind of sound profile does brass offer?

Brass is known for its explosive attack and deep, rich overtones, offering a metallic resonance that is often warmer than steel but more aggressive than wood.

Is this drum suitable for live performances?

Yes, its commanding presence and sharp sound quality make it a standout choice for live settings where projection is necessary.

How does this compare to the DW Collector's Series Stainless Steel Snare?

While both are professional metal snares, the Performance Series Brass typically offers richer overtones compared to the brighter, more focused crack of stainless steel.

Does the finish affect the sound of the drum?

Yes, the polished brass finish not only provides a high-end look but also contributes to the drum's overall sharpness and resonant quality.

What is the typical price for this snare drum?

The typical price range for this model is approximately GBP 579, reflecting its position as a professional-grade instrument.

Can the snare tension be adjusted quickly during a song?

Yes, the combination of the MAG throw-off and the 3P butt plate is specifically designed for swift, mid-performance sound adjustments.

Gear article

DW Drums Performance Series 14" x 5.5" Snare Drum Brass

The DW Drums Performance Series 14" x 5.5" Snare Drum is a professional-grade percussion instrument featuring a 1mm rolled brass shell. Part of the manufacturer's renowned Performance Series, it is designed to offer a commanding presence through its explosive attack and resonant tonal characteristics.

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Overview

The DW Performance Series Brass Snare is a 14" x 5.5" drum constructed with a 1mm thick, polished, and rolled brass shell. Positioned as a versatile workhorse within the DW catalogue, it combines traditional metal-shell characteristics with modern proprietary hardware. The drum is finished in polished brass, which serves both aesthetic and acoustic purposes, contributing to the instrument's sharp and resonant sound quality.

Technical Features and Hardware

This snare drum incorporates several engineering features specific to the DW brand:

MAG Throw-off: A magnet-based system that allows the snares to be engaged or released quickly without the risk of accidental drop-outs.
3P Butt Plate: A three-position plate that enables the drummer to toggle between three distinct snare wire tension levels instantly.
TruePitch Tension Rods: These rods feature a finer thread pitch compared to standard tension rods, allowing for more precise and stable tuning.
Quarter Lugs: Smaller versions of the classic DW turret lug, designed to reduce the hardware footprint on the shell for improved resonance.

Acoustic Character

The use of a 1mm brass shell provides an explosive attack that is characteristic of metal snares. It produces deep, rich overtones that help the drum cut through high-volume musical environments. The 5.5" depth offers a balanced response, providing enough body for backbeats while maintaining the sensitivity required for ghost notes and intricate sticking.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the DW range, this model offers a distinct alternative to the Collector's Series Stainless Steel Snare, which typically provides a drier, brighter crack compared to the warmer overtones of brass. When compared to wood-shell options like the British Drum Co. Maverick (Maple) or the Natal Originals Walnut, the Performance Series Brass offers significantly more projection and a faster decay. Unlike entry-level options such as the Gear4music Junior kits, this snare is a professional-tier instrument designed for high-end performance and recording.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell thickness of this snare?: The shell is constructed from 1mm thick brass that has been rolled and polished for a professional finish.
What type of lugs are used on this drum?: The drum features DW's Performance Series quarter-sized turret lugs, which provide a smaller footprint on the shell than standard DW lugs.
How does the MAG throw-off work?: The MAG throw-off uses a magnetic mechanism to hold the snare lever in the 'up' position, preventing accidental release while allowing for a smooth, fast drop when needed.
What is the function of the 3P Butt Plate?: The 3P (Three-Position) butt plate allows the player to quickly switch between three different snare wire tension settings mid-performance.
What tuning system does this snare use?: It uses DW’s TruePitch tuning tension rods, which feature higher thread counts to allow for more granular and stable tuning adjustments.
What are the dimensions of this specific model?: This specific snare drum has a diameter of 14 inches and a depth of 5.5 inches.
What kind of sound profile does brass offer?: Brass is known for its explosive attack and deep, rich overtones, offering a metallic resonance that is often warmer than steel but more aggressive than wood.
Is this drum suitable for live performances?: Yes, its commanding presence and sharp sound quality make it a standout choice for live settings where projection is necessary.
How does this compare to the DW Collector's Series Stainless Steel Snare?: While both are professional metal snares, the Performance Series Brass typically offers richer overtones compared to the brighter, more focused crack of stainless steel.
Does the finish affect the sound of the drum?: Yes, the polished brass finish not only provides a high-end look but also contributes to the drum's overall sharpness and resonant quality.
What is the typical price for this snare drum?: The typical price range for this model is approximately GBP 579, reflecting its position as a professional-grade instrument.
Can the snare tension be adjusted quickly during a song?: Yes, the combination of the MAG throw-off and the 3P butt plate is specifically designed for swift, mid-performance sound adjustments.