What is the shell material of this Natal Originals snare?

The shell is constructed from 7-ply walnut, which provides a dark and rich tonality compared to standard maple shells.

What are the dimensions of this specific drum?

The drum measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth, a standard size for versatility across musical genres.

What type of hardware finish is used on the Cerulean Blue model?

This snare drum features brushed nickel hardware, which is designed to complement the dark aesthetic of the walnut shell and blue finish.

What is the function of the Tri-Throw mechanism?

The Tri-Throw is a specialised snare throw-off that allows the player to select different levels of snare wire tension for varied responses.

How do Tru-Tone tension rods benefit the drummer?

Tru-Tone tension rods are engineered to provide more accurate and consistent tuning, helping the drum stay in tune during heavy play.

What kind of sound profile does walnut typically produce?

Walnut is known for producing a deep, rich, and dark sound with a very clear and focused fundamental tone.

Is this snare drum suitable for beginners or professionals?

While its price point and features target professional applications, its versatility makes it suitable for any drummer looking for a high-quality walnut sound.

How does this compare to the 14 x 8" Natal Walnut snare?

The 14 x 5.5" model offers a quicker response and higher tuning range, whereas the 14 x 8" version provides more volume and a deeper body.

What is the typical price for this snare drum?

The typical price range for this specific Natal Originals Walnut model is approximately £360.

Does the Cerulean Blue finish affect the sound?

The finish is primarily aesthetic; the dark, rich tonality is derived from the 7-ply walnut shell construction.

Can this snare be used for jazz and rock?

Yes, its versatile 14 x 5.5" dimensions and adjustable Tri-Throw mechanism make it appropriate for both jazz and rock settings.

How does it differ from the Tama Starclassic Performer LTD?

While both are high-quality snares, the Natal uses a walnut shell for a darker tone, whereas the Starclassic Performer typically uses a maple/birch hybrid.

Gear article

Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 5.5" Snare Drum Cerulean Blue

The Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 5.5" Snare Drum is a professional percussion instrument featuring a 7-ply walnut shell finished in Cerulean Blue. It is designed to deliver a dark, focused tonality suitable for a wide variety of musical applications, aided by specialised Tru-Tone tension rods and a Tri-Throw snare mechanism.

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Overview

The Natal Originals Walnut snare represents the brand's commitment to high-end shell construction and aesthetic design. This specific model features a 14-inch diameter and a 5.5-inch depth, a configuration widely considered the industry standard for versatility. The drum is characterised by its 7-ply walnut construction, which provides a distinct departure from more common maple or birch shells.

Construction and Hardware

The drum is built around a 7-ply walnut shell, a timber known for its density and unique acoustic properties. The exterior is finished in a Cerulean Blue wrap or lacquer, which is complemented by brushed nickel hardware.

Key hardware features include: * Tru-Tone Tension Rods: These are designed to allow for more precise and consistent tuning across the drumhead. * Tri-Throw Snare Mechanism: A versatile throw-off system that provides multiple settings for snare wire tension, allowing the player to quickly adjust the response of the drum.

Acoustic Character

The use of walnut results in a sound that is described as deep, rich, and dark. Unlike brighter woods, the Natal Originals Walnut snare focuses on full-bodied lower-mid frequencies while maintaining a clear and focused attack. This makes it particularly effective in settings where a warm, woody 'thwack' is preferred over high-pitched ringing.

Market Comparison

When compared to other professional snares, the Natal Walnut sits alongside models like the British Drum Co. Maverick (Maple) and the Tama Starclassic Performer. While the Maverick offers the classic brightness of maple, the Natal provides a darker, more 'earthy' alternative. Compared to metal-shelled options like the DW Collector’s Series Stainless Steel, the Natal Walnut offers significantly less overtone resonance, opting instead for a controlled, focused decay.

Recommended Application

Due to its balanced dimensions and dark tonality, this snare drum is marketed as an all-purpose instrument. It is suitable for studio recording where controlled overtones are desired, as well as live performances across genres including jazz, rock, and blues. The Tri-Throw mechanism further extends its utility, allowing drummers to switch between tight, crisp responses and looser, more resonant snare sounds mid-performance.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of this Natal Originals snare?: The shell is constructed from 7-ply walnut, which provides a dark and rich tonality compared to standard maple shells.
What are the dimensions of this specific drum?: The drum measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth, a standard size for versatility across musical genres.
What type of hardware finish is used on the Cerulean Blue model?: This snare drum features brushed nickel hardware, which is designed to complement the dark aesthetic of the walnut shell and blue finish.
What is the function of the Tri-Throw mechanism?: The Tri-Throw is a specialised snare throw-off that allows the player to select different levels of snare wire tension for varied responses.
How do Tru-Tone tension rods benefit the drummer?: Tru-Tone tension rods are engineered to provide more accurate and consistent tuning, helping the drum stay in tune during heavy play.
What kind of sound profile does walnut typically produce?: Walnut is known for producing a deep, rich, and dark sound with a very clear and focused fundamental tone.
Is this snare drum suitable for beginners or professionals?: While its price point and features target professional applications, its versatility makes it suitable for any drummer looking for a high-quality walnut sound.
How does this compare to the 14 x 8" Natal Walnut snare?: The 14 x 5.5" model offers a quicker response and higher tuning range, whereas the 14 x 8" version provides more volume and a deeper body.
What is the typical price for this snare drum?: The typical price range for this specific Natal Originals Walnut model is approximately £360.
Does the Cerulean Blue finish affect the sound?: The finish is primarily aesthetic; the dark, rich tonality is derived from the 7-ply walnut shell construction.
Can this snare be used for jazz and rock?: Yes, its versatile 14 x 5.5" dimensions and adjustable Tri-Throw mechanism make it appropriate for both jazz and rock settings.
How does it differ from the Tama Starclassic Performer LTD?: While both are high-quality snares, the Natal uses a walnut shell for a darker tone, whereas the Starclassic Performer typically uses a maple/birch hybrid.