What are the dimensions of the Natal Arcadia Acrylic snare?

The drum features a 13-inch diameter and a 6.5-inch shell depth. This specific sizing provides a unique blend of high-pitched crack and body.

What material is the shell made from?

The shell is constructed from transparent acrylic. This material is chosen for its durability, stage presence, and bright acoustic projection.

How does the tri-throw mechanism work?

The tri-throw mechanism allows the drummer to select between three different snare wire tension levels. This allows for quick adjustments between tight, medium, and loose snare responses.

Is this snare drum suitable for rock music?

Yes, it is specifically described as giving a great rock sound. Its bright and loud projection makes it ideal for genres that require the snare to cut through loud amplification.

Does the acrylic shell affect tuning stability?

The Natal Arcadia is designed to stay in tune even under demanding performances. The stability of the acrylic material helps maintain tension during heavy play.

What is the typical price range for this drum?

The Natal Arcadia 13 x 6.5 Acrylic Snare Drum typically retails for approximately £149. This makes it an accessible option for gigging drummers.

How does acrylic sound compared to maple snares?

Acrylic is generally brighter and louder than maple. While a drum like the British Drum Co. Maverick Maple snare offers warmth, the Arcadia Acrylic focuses on sharp attack and projection.

Is the shell transparent or coloured?

This specific model features a fully transparent shell. This provides a modern, clean aesthetic that can pick up stage lighting effectively.

Who is the ideal user for this snare?

It is ideal for the gigging musician who requires a durable and visually striking instrument. It is particularly suited for those playing live rock or high-volume contemporary music.

Can I achieve a 'sloppy' snare sound with this drum?

Yes, the tri-throw mechanism is specifically designed to allow users to change from a tight sound to a sloppy snare sound quickly. This provides significant tonal versatility.

How does it compare to the Natal Originals Walnut snare?

The Arcadia Acrylic is brighter and smaller (13x6.5), whereas the Originals Walnut is larger (14x8) and provides a darker, woodier tone. The Acrylic version is more focused on projection.

Is the hardware durable enough for touring?

Natal has built the Arcadia series to be durable and 'built to last.' The hardware and acrylic shell are designed to withstand the stresses of regular gigging and transportation.

Gear article

Natal Arcadia 13 x 6.5 Acrylic Snare Drum

The Natal Arcadia 13 x 6.5 Acrylic Snare Drum is a professional-grade percussion instrument designed for high-volume rock performances and visual stage appeal. Constructed from durable transparent acrylic, it is engineered to maintain tuning stability and provide significant projection in live settings.

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Overview and Design

The Natal Arcadia Acrylic Snare Drum is defined by its 13-inch diameter and 6.5-inch depth, a configuration that offers a balance between a sharp pop and deep resonance. The use of a transparent acrylic shell serves two primary purposes: high-impact visual aesthetics for stage use and a distinctive sonic profile characterized by brightness and volume. Unlike traditional wooden shells, the acrylic construction is highly resistant to environmental changes, contributing to its reputation for durability.

Performance Features

A key technical feature of this drum is the inclusion of the Natal tri-throw snare mechanism. This component allows the player to quickly switch between three distinct tension settings, enabling a rapid transition from a tight, articulate response to a looser, 'sloppy' snare sound mid-performance. The hardware is designed to withstand the rigours of heavy hitting, ensuring the drum remains in tune even during demanding rock sets.

Sonic Characteristics

The Arcadia Acrylic snare is voiced specifically for rock and loud contemporary music. Because acrylic is a denser, non-porous material compared to wood, it produces a sound with a sharp attack and loud projection. It lacks the warm overtones of maple or walnut, instead favouring a bright, cutting tone that can easily penetrate dense guitar mixes in a live environment.

Market Context and Alternatives

Positioned at a price point of approximately £149, the Natal Arcadia is aimed at gigging musicians seeking a reliable, specialised snare without the premium cost of boutique acrylic kits.

When compared to other market options: * Natal Originals Walnut: Offers a much deeper, warmer tone with its 14 x 8" dimensions and wood construction. * British Drum Co. Maverick: A 14 x 5.5" maple alternative that provides a more traditional, versatile wooden sound. * DW Collectors Stainless Steel: A high-end metal alternative for those seeking even more aggressive brightness and volume.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the dimensions of the Natal Arcadia Acrylic snare?: The drum features a 13-inch diameter and a 6.5-inch shell depth. This specific sizing provides a unique blend of high-pitched crack and body.
What material is the shell made from?: The shell is constructed from transparent acrylic. This material is chosen for its durability, stage presence, and bright acoustic projection.
How does the tri-throw mechanism work?: The tri-throw mechanism allows the drummer to select between three different snare wire tension levels. This allows for quick adjustments between tight, medium, and loose snare responses.
Is this snare drum suitable for rock music?: Yes, it is specifically described as giving a great rock sound. Its bright and loud projection makes it ideal for genres that require the snare to cut through loud amplification.
Does the acrylic shell affect tuning stability?: The Natal Arcadia is designed to stay in tune even under demanding performances. The stability of the acrylic material helps maintain tension during heavy play.
What is the typical price range for this drum?: The Natal Arcadia 13 x 6.5 Acrylic Snare Drum typically retails for approximately £149. This makes it an accessible option for gigging drummers.
How does acrylic sound compared to maple snares?: Acrylic is generally brighter and louder than maple. While a drum like the British Drum Co. Maverick Maple snare offers warmth, the Arcadia Acrylic focuses on sharp attack and projection.
Is the shell transparent or coloured?: This specific model features a fully transparent shell. This provides a modern, clean aesthetic that can pick up stage lighting effectively.
Who is the ideal user for this snare?: It is ideal for the gigging musician who requires a durable and visually striking instrument. It is particularly suited for those playing live rock or high-volume contemporary music.
Can I achieve a 'sloppy' snare sound with this drum?: Yes, the tri-throw mechanism is specifically designed to allow users to change from a tight sound to a sloppy snare sound quickly. This provides significant tonal versatility.
How does it compare to the Natal Originals Walnut snare?: The Arcadia Acrylic is brighter and smaller (13x6.5), whereas the Originals Walnut is larger (14x8) and provides a darker, woodier tone. The Acrylic version is more focused on projection.
Is the hardware durable enough for touring?: Natal has built the Arcadia series to be durable and 'built to last.' The hardware and acrylic shell are designed to withstand the stresses of regular gigging and transportation.