What is the shell material of the DW Performance Series snare?

The shell is constructed from 10-ply North American maple. This material is chosen for its warmth and presence in both live and recorded settings.

What does HVX grain orientation mean?

HVX is a proprietary DW grain orientation that alternates the direction of the wood plies. This design is intended to provide a low-mid punch and a specific fundamental pitch.

How does the MAG throw-off work?

The MAG throw-off uses a magnetic mechanism to engage and disengage the snare wires. It is designed to drop the snares instantly without creating unwanted buzzing noises.

What are True-Pitch tuning screws?

These are tension rods with finer threads than standard drum hardware. This allows for more granular control over the drum's pitch and helps the drum stay in tune longer.

What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?

This model measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth. This is a standard size that balances body with articulation.

What finish is used on this model?

This drum features a 'Chrome Shadow' FinishPly. FinishPly is a durable wrap used by DW to provide a high-quality aesthetic.

Is this snare suitable for studio recording?

Yes, the manufacturer describes it as being perfect for both stage and studio. Its maple construction provides the crisp articulation required for recording.

How much does the DW Performance Series snare typically cost?

In the UK market, this snare drum typically retails for approximately £549. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.

What type of tone should I expect from this drum?

Expect an incredibly warm and present tone with a low-mid punch. The 10-ply maple shell ensures the drum has plenty of crisp articulation.

Is the DW Performance Series an electronic drum kit?

While sometimes categorised broadly within percussion departments, this specific product is an acoustic snare drum. It is not an electronic drum kit.

How does this compare to a DW Collector's Series snare?

The Performance Series uses standardised HVX shells, whereas the Collector's Series offers custom shell configurations like Stainless Steel. The Performance Series is generally more accessible in price.

Can I change the timbre quickly during a song?

Yes, the MAG throw-off allows you to drop the snares instantly. This enables rapid changes between a standard snare sound and a 'tom-like' snare-off sound.

Gear article

DW Performance Series 14x5.5 Snare Drum (Chrome Shadow)

The DW Performance Series 14x5.5 Snare Drum is a professional-grade percussion instrument constructed from 10-ply North American maple. It features a proprietary HVX grain orientation and is finished in a Chrome Shadow FinishPly wrap, designed for high-performance use in both stage and studio environments.

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Background and Construction

The DW Performance Series represents a mid-to-high tier offering from DW Drums, bridging the gap between their custom shop instruments and entry-level lines. This specific 14 x 5.5" model is built in North America using 10-ply North American maple.

A defining characteristic of this drum is the use of DW’s proprietary HVX grain orientation. This technique alternates the direction of the wood plies to increase shell strength and influence the fundamental pitch. The exterior is adorned with a durable 'Chrome Shadow' FinishPly, providing a professional aesthetic suitable for various stage lighting conditions.

Technical Features

The Performance Series snare incorporates several hardware innovations standard to the DW brand:

MAG Throw-Off: This magnetic snare strainer is designed to drop the wires instantly without any mechanical noise or buzzing, allowing for smooth timbre changes during a performance.
True-Pitch Tuning Screws: These tension rods feature finer threads than standard screws, providing a higher thread count that allows for more precise and stable tuning adjustments.
10-Ply Shell: The thickness of the maple shell contributes to the drum's projection and structural integrity.

Sonic Characteristics

Thanks to its 10-ply maple construction and HVX technology, the Performance Series snare produces a warm, present tone. It is characterised by a noticeable low-mid punch and crisp articulation. The drum is designed to be versatile enough to cut through a musical mix while maintaining impeccable response across different dynamic levels. Its 5.5" depth provides a balance between the body of a deeper drum and the sensitivity of a shallower model.

Market Context and Alternatives

Positioned at a typical price point of approximately £549, this snare competes with other premium wooden snare drums. Potential alternatives for drummers seeking a maple sound include the British Drum Co. Maverick 14 x 5.5" or the Sonor AQ2 Maple Snare. For those seeking different tonal properties, the Tama Starclassic Performer or the metal-shelled DW Collector's Series Stainless Steel snare offer distinct contrasts in material and projection.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of the DW Performance Series snare?: The shell is constructed from 10-ply North American maple. This material is chosen for its warmth and presence in both live and recorded settings.
What does HVX grain orientation mean?: HVX is a proprietary DW grain orientation that alternates the direction of the wood plies. This design is intended to provide a low-mid punch and a specific fundamental pitch.
How does the MAG throw-off work?: The MAG throw-off uses a magnetic mechanism to engage and disengage the snare wires. It is designed to drop the snares instantly without creating unwanted buzzing noises.
What are True-Pitch tuning screws?: These are tension rods with finer threads than standard drum hardware. This allows for more granular control over the drum's pitch and helps the drum stay in tune longer.
What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?: This model measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth. This is a standard size that balances body with articulation.
What finish is used on this model?: This drum features a 'Chrome Shadow' FinishPly. FinishPly is a durable wrap used by DW to provide a high-quality aesthetic.
Is this snare suitable for studio recording?: Yes, the manufacturer describes it as being perfect for both stage and studio. Its maple construction provides the crisp articulation required for recording.
How much does the DW Performance Series snare typically cost?: In the UK market, this snare drum typically retails for approximately £549. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
What type of tone should I expect from this drum?: Expect an incredibly warm and present tone with a low-mid punch. The 10-ply maple shell ensures the drum has plenty of crisp articulation.
Is the DW Performance Series an electronic drum kit?: While sometimes categorised broadly within percussion departments, this specific product is an acoustic snare drum. It is not an electronic drum kit.
How does this compare to a DW Collector's Series snare?: The Performance Series uses standardised HVX shells, whereas the Collector's Series offers custom shell configurations like Stainless Steel. The Performance Series is generally more accessible in price.
Can I change the timbre quickly during a song?: Yes, the MAG throw-off allows you to drop the snares instantly. This enables rapid changes between a standard snare sound and a 'tom-like' snare-off sound.