What is the shell thickness of the DW Performance Series Steel Snare?

The drum features a thin 1mm rolled steel shell, designed to balance resonance with the sharp attack characteristic of metal drums.

What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?

The drum has a diameter of 14 inches and a depth of 8 inches, making it a 'deep-dish' snare model.

What type of lugs are used on this model?

This snare is equipped with DW's unique 'propeller' lugs, which are a signature design element of the Performance Series.

How does the sound of steel compare to brass in this drum?

According to the manufacturer, this snare provides the ping of a brass shell but with a more pronounced metallic quality and fewer unwanted overtones.

Is this snare drum suitable for quiet playing?

Yes. Despite its large 14" x 8" size and high volume potential, the drum is designed to possess incredible sensitivity for softer playing styles.

Does the 8-inch depth affect the tuning range?

The 8-inch depth typically provides a fatter, deeper fundamental tone, though the steel shell ensures it maintains a sharp 'crack' even at lower tunings.

How much does the DW Performance 14" x 8" Steel Snare typically cost?

The typical price for this model is approximately £464, placing it in the mid-to-high professional price bracket.

What makes the shell construction 'rolled'?

A rolled shell is created by bending a flat sheet of steel into a cylinder and joining it, which often results in a different resonance profile compared to cast shells.

Can this snare drum cut through loud stage volumes?

Yes, the combination of a steel shell and an 8-inch depth provides significant volume and 'cut', making it ideal for loud environments.

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

While both are professional metal snares, the Performance Series uses specific 'propeller' lugs and a 1mm rolled steel shell, whereas Collector's Series models often feature different specifications and higher price points.

Are there unwanted ringing sounds with this steel shell?

The manufacturer specifically notes that this design aims to eliminate unwanted overtones while maintaining a bright, metallic character.

Is this drum sold as part of an electronic kit?

No, this is an acoustic snare drum, despite being categorised alongside various percussion and drum products in some retail listings.

Gear article

DW Drums Performance Series 14" x 8" Steel Snare Drum

The DW Drums Performance Series 14" x 8" Steel Snare Drum is a professional-grade percussion instrument featuring a thin 1mm rolled steel shell and a deep profile. Designed as a versatile all-rounder, it combines the projection of a metallic shell with high sensitivity and controlled overtones.

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Design and Construction

The DW Performance Series snare is constructed from a 1mm rolled steel shell, providing a robust yet resonant foundation. The aesthetic is defined by the inclusion of DW's unique 'propeller' lugs, which contribute to a sleek, modern appearance while ensuring stable tuning across the head. The 8-inch depth is a defining characteristic of this model, offering significant air volume compared to standard 5.5-inch or 6-inch snare drums.

Acoustic Characteristics

This snare drum is engineered to provide a specific sonic profile that bridges the gap between different metal types. While it possesses the 'ping' typically associated with brass shells, the steel construction introduces a more distinct metallic quality. A key design achievement is the reduction of unwanted overtones, ensuring that the high-volume 'crack' and 'cut' of the drum remain focused and clear. Despite its size, the drum retains high sensitivity for ghost notes and intricate rhythmic patterns.

Versatility and Suitability

DW positions the Performance Series 14" x 8" Steel Snare as a versatile 'all-rounder'. Its significant depth makes it particularly suitable for genres requiring high volume and a deep, punchy fundamental tone, such as rock or metal. However, its sensitivity ensures it can function effectively in diverse musical settings where a authoritative snare presence is required without sacrificing nuance.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other professional snares, the 14" x 8" steel model offers a distinct alternative to wood-shelled drums like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the Sonor AQ2 Maple. While maple provides warmth, this steel snare prioritises projection and metallic bite. Within the DW range, it offers a different character to the Collector's Series Stainless Steel models, which often feature different shell thicknesses and lug configurations. It also stands in contrast to shallower options like the Tama Starclassic Performer, providing more body and low-end resonance due to its extra depth.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell thickness of the DW Performance Series Steel Snare?: The drum features a thin 1mm rolled steel shell, designed to balance resonance with the sharp attack characteristic of metal drums.
What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?: The drum has a diameter of 14 inches and a depth of 8 inches, making it a 'deep-dish' snare model.
What type of lugs are used on this model?: This snare is equipped with DW's unique 'propeller' lugs, which are a signature design element of the Performance Series.
How does the sound of steel compare to brass in this drum?: According to the manufacturer, this snare provides the ping of a brass shell but with a more pronounced metallic quality and fewer unwanted overtones.
Is this snare drum suitable for quiet playing?: Yes. Despite its large 14" x 8" size and high volume potential, the drum is designed to possess incredible sensitivity for softer playing styles.
Does the 8-inch depth affect the tuning range?: The 8-inch depth typically provides a fatter, deeper fundamental tone, though the steel shell ensures it maintains a sharp 'crack' even at lower tunings.
How much does the DW Performance 14" x 8" Steel Snare typically cost?: The typical price for this model is approximately £464, placing it in the mid-to-high professional price bracket.
What makes the shell construction 'rolled'?: A rolled shell is created by bending a flat sheet of steel into a cylinder and joining it, which often results in a different resonance profile compared to cast shells.
Can this snare drum cut through loud stage volumes?: Yes, the combination of a steel shell and an 8-inch depth provides significant volume and 'cut', making it ideal for loud environments.
How does this compare to the DW Collector’s Series Stainless Steel Snare?: While both are professional metal snares, the Performance Series uses specific 'propeller' lugs and a 1mm rolled steel shell, whereas Collector's Series models often feature different specifications and higher price points.
Are there unwanted ringing sounds with this steel shell?: The manufacturer specifically notes that this design aims to eliminate unwanted overtones while maintaining a bright, metallic character.
Is this drum sold as part of an electronic kit?: No, this is an acoustic snare drum, despite being categorised alongside various percussion and drum products in some retail listings.