What is 'Space Carbon'?

Space Carbon is the high-grade carbon fibre material used by DW for this snare drum shell. It is selected for its high strength-to-weight ratio and its unique resonant properties that differ from traditional wood or metal shells.

How does the brass edge affect the sound?

The brass edge is designed to transform the drum's tonal output by boosting middle and high frequencies. This results in a more musical and bright tone compared to a pure carbon fibre shell.

What are the dimensions of this snare drum?

The drum measures 14 inches in diameter and 5.5 inches in depth. This is a standard size that offers a balance between body and snap.

Is the DW Carbon Fibre Edge suitable for recording?

Yes, it is described as a 'studio-ready' snare drum. Its combination of sensitivity, control, and boosted frequencies makes it highly adaptable for professional recording environments.

How much does the DW Carbon Fibre Edge typically cost?

The typical price for this snare drum is approximately £1,999. This reflects its position as a high-end, professional-tier instrument.

Is the drum shell durable?

Yes, carbon fibre is known for being extremely durable while remaining lightweight. This makes it an excellent choice for touring drummers who need a reliable instrument.

What kind of hardware does it use?

The drum is equipped with high-quality DW hardware. This ensures exceptional playability, stable tuning, and long-term reliability for the user.

How does this drum compare to the DW Stainless Steel snare?

While the Stainless Steel model offers a traditional bright metal sound, the Carbon Fibre Edge provides a more unique tonal profile with the added benefit of being lightweight and featuring a brass edge for enhanced musicality.

What is the visual finish of the drum?

The drum features a modern and luxurious design with unique details intended to catch the eyes of the audience. The carbon fibre weave is a central part of its aesthetic appeal.

Does this drum offer high sensitivity?

Yes, the carbon fibre construction is specifically noted for providing high sensitivity. This allows the drummer to have greater control over dynamics and ghost notes.

Can this snare drum be used for live performances?

Absolutely, it is described as being 'at home on stage.' Its eye-catching design and powerful projection make it ideal for live venues.

What makes the DW Edge series unique?

The Edge series is unique because it combines two different materials into one shell. In this case, it blends carbon fibre with brass to achieve a hybrid sound that neither material could produce alone.

Gear article

DW Drums Carbon Fibre Edge 14 x 5.5" Snare Drum

The DW Drums Carbon Fibre Edge 14 x 5.5" is a professional-grade snare drum constructed from high-grade 'Space Carbon' and featuring a unique brass edge design. It is designed to offer a balance of lightweight durability, high sensitivity, and a distinct musical tone suited for both stage and studio environments.

See live prices

Overview

The DW Snare Drum Carbon Fibre Edge is a specialist instrument within the DW catalogue, distinguished by its use of 'Space Carbon.' This material provides a lightweight yet durable alternative to traditional wood or metal shells. The drum is marketed as a professional-quality, studio-ready instrument that combines modern aesthetics with advanced acoustic engineering.

Construction and Key Features

The primary innovation of this model is the 'Edge' design, which marries a carbon fibre body with a brass edge. This hybrid construction is intended to leverage the specific properties of both materials. The carbon fibre provides a foundation of power, sensitivity, and control, while the integration of the brass edge is designed to boost midrange and high frequencies. The drum is finished with high-quality DW hardware to ensure consistent reliability and playability for professional drummers.

Sound and Character

The sonic profile of the Carbon Fibre Edge is described as having a tone unmatched by standard DW snare offerings. The carbon fibre shell contributes a modern, focused sound with significant projection. When combined with the brass edge, the drum gains a more 'phenomenal musical tone' characterized by enhanced clarity in the upper registers. This makes it highly sensitive to ghost notes while maintaining the power necessary for backbeats.

Target Audience

This snare drum is positioned for professional musicians who require a versatile instrument capable of performing in diverse settings. Its 'studio-ready' designation suggests a high degree of tonal control and recording clarity, while its luxurious and modern visual design makes it a prominent choice for live stage performances. It is suited for players who value lightweight equipment that does not compromise on volume or frequency range.

Market Comparison

Within the high-end snare market, the DW Carbon Fibre Edge competes with other premium material drums. While the DW Collectors Series 14" x 5.5" Stainless Steel Snare offers a traditional metal bite, the Carbon Fibre Edge provides a more modern, lightweight alternative. Other competitors include the British Drum Co. Maverick and the Sonor AQ2, which utilize maple shells for a warmer, classic wood tone, and the Natal Originals Walnut for those seeking deeper low-end response.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is 'Space Carbon'?: Space Carbon is the high-grade carbon fibre material used by DW for this snare drum shell. It is selected for its high strength-to-weight ratio and its unique resonant properties that differ from traditional wood or metal shells.
How does the brass edge affect the sound?: The brass edge is designed to transform the drum's tonal output by boosting middle and high frequencies. This results in a more musical and bright tone compared to a pure carbon fibre shell.
What are the dimensions of this snare drum?: The drum measures 14 inches in diameter and 5.5 inches in depth. This is a standard size that offers a balance between body and snap.
Is the DW Carbon Fibre Edge suitable for recording?: Yes, it is described as a 'studio-ready' snare drum. Its combination of sensitivity, control, and boosted frequencies makes it highly adaptable for professional recording environments.
How much does the DW Carbon Fibre Edge typically cost?: The typical price for this snare drum is approximately £1,999. This reflects its position as a high-end, professional-tier instrument.
Is the drum shell durable?: Yes, carbon fibre is known for being extremely durable while remaining lightweight. This makes it an excellent choice for touring drummers who need a reliable instrument.
What kind of hardware does it use?: The drum is equipped with high-quality DW hardware. This ensures exceptional playability, stable tuning, and long-term reliability for the user.
How does this drum compare to the DW Stainless Steel snare?: While the Stainless Steel model offers a traditional bright metal sound, the Carbon Fibre Edge provides a more unique tonal profile with the added benefit of being lightweight and featuring a brass edge for enhanced musicality.
What is the visual finish of the drum?: The drum features a modern and luxurious design with unique details intended to catch the eyes of the audience. The carbon fibre weave is a central part of its aesthetic appeal.
Does this drum offer high sensitivity?: Yes, the carbon fibre construction is specifically noted for providing high sensitivity. This allows the drummer to have greater control over dynamics and ghost notes.
Can this snare drum be used for live performances?: Absolutely, it is described as being 'at home on stage.' Its eye-catching design and powerful projection make it ideal for live venues.
What makes the DW Edge series unique?: The Edge series is unique because it combines two different materials into one shell. In this case, it blends carbon fibre with brass to achieve a hybrid sound that neither material could produce alone.