What is the shell construction of this Natal snare?

The drum features a 7-ply walnut shell. This construction is designed to deliver a deep, rich, and dark tonal character.

What are the dimensions of this specific drum?

The drum has a diameter of 14 inches and a depth of 5.5 inches. This is a standard size that provides a balance between body and sensitivity.

What type of hardware finish is used on the Sunburst model?

The snare is fitted with brushed nickel hardware. This provides a dark, matte aesthetic that complements the Sunburst finish.

What is the benefit of the Tru-Tone tension rods?

Tru-Tone tension rods are designed to provide more accurate and stable tuning. They allow the drummer to achieve a focused sound that stays in tune longer during play.

What does the Tri-Throw snare mechanism do?

The Tri-Throw mechanism allows for three different snare wire tension settings. This offers the drummer increased versatility in how the snares react against the bottom head.

How does walnut compare to maple for snare shells?

Walnut generally produces a darker and deeper tone than maple. While maple is known for its all-around balance and brightness, walnut provides a fuller-bodied, warmer sound.

Is this snare suitable for heavy rock music?

Yes, its deep and rich sounds with dark tonality make it very versatile. The walnut shell provides enough body to sit well in a heavy rock mix.

Can this drum be used for jazz?

Certainly, the clear and focused sound of the 7-ply walnut shell allows for the nuanced playing required in jazz. The dark tonality is often preferred by jazz drummers seeking a warmer response.

What is the finish on this specific Natal Originals model?

This model features a Sunburst finish. It is designed to offer a classic, stunning style that highlights the grain of the wood.

Is the 14 x 5.5" version better than the 14 x 8" version?

Neither is objectively better, but the 5.5" depth offers a quicker response and more 'snap.' The 8" version would provide a significantly deeper, fatter sound with more volume.

Does this snare come with a case?

Standard retail versions of the Natal Originals Walnut snare typically do not include a case. It is recommended to purchase a 14 x 5.5" padded bag or hard case separately.

What is the typical price for this snare drum?

The typical price range for this model is approximately GBP 360. Pricing may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.

Gear article

Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 5.5" Snare Drum Sunburst

The Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 5.5" Snare Drum is a premium acoustic snare featuring a 7-ply walnut shell designed for deep, dark tonality. Equipped with brushed nickel hardware and a Tri-Throw mechanism, it is engineered for versatile performance across various musical genres.

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Overview

The Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 5.5" Snare Drum is a central component of the Natal Originals series, distinguished by its use of walnut as a primary shell material. While Natal is sometimes associated with broader percussion ranges, this specific model is a dedicated acoustic snare drum aimed at drummers seeking a balance between aesthetic elegance and a focused, low-frequency response. The drum features a Sunburst finish, which is visually complemented by brushed nickel hardware.

Construction and Key Features

The core of the drum is a 7-ply Walnut shell. Walnut is chosen for its specific density, which provides a darker tonal profile compared to maple or birch.

Hardware features include: * Tri-Throw mechanism: Provides the drummer with multiple levels of snare wire tension for increased versatility. * Tru-Tone tension rods: Designed to provide precise and consistent tuning across the drum head. * Brushed Nickel Hardware: Offers a muted, sophisticated aesthetic that matches the dark Sunburst finish.

Sound Character

The Natal Originals Walnut snare is characterised by a deep and rich sound. The 7-ply construction ensures a full-bodied tone that remains clear and focused rather than becoming muddy at lower tunings. Its naturally dark tonality makes it particularly effective in settings where a warmer, less abrasive snare crack is required, though it retains enough presence to cut through a mix.

Suitability

This snare drum is described by the manufacturer as a versatile tool suitable for all playing styles and musical applications. Its aesthetic, featuring the Sunburst finish and brushed nickel accents, suits players looking for a 'dark' visual presence to match the drum's sonic profile. It is positioned as a professional-grade instrument that can handle both studio recording and live performance environments.

Market Comparisons

Within the 14 x 5.5" category, the Natal Walnut snare competes with models such as the British Drum Co. Maverick, which utilises maple for a brighter response, and the Tama Starclassic Performer, which often employs hybrid shell designs. Compared to its larger sibling, the Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 8", this 5.5" deep model offers a faster response and a more traditional 'pop,' while maintaining the signature walnut warmth. It stands in contrast to metal-shelled options like the DW Collector's Series Stainless Steel, which provides a much sharper, brighter attack.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell construction of this Natal snare?: The drum features a 7-ply walnut shell. This construction is designed to deliver a deep, rich, and dark tonal character.
What are the dimensions of this specific drum?: The drum has a diameter of 14 inches and a depth of 5.5 inches. This is a standard size that provides a balance between body and sensitivity.
What type of hardware finish is used on the Sunburst model?: The snare is fitted with brushed nickel hardware. This provides a dark, matte aesthetic that complements the Sunburst finish.
What is the benefit of the Tru-Tone tension rods?: Tru-Tone tension rods are designed to provide more accurate and stable tuning. They allow the drummer to achieve a focused sound that stays in tune longer during play.
What does the Tri-Throw snare mechanism do?: The Tri-Throw mechanism allows for three different snare wire tension settings. This offers the drummer increased versatility in how the snares react against the bottom head.
How does walnut compare to maple for snare shells?: Walnut generally produces a darker and deeper tone than maple. While maple is known for its all-around balance and brightness, walnut provides a fuller-bodied, warmer sound.
Is this snare suitable for heavy rock music?: Yes, its deep and rich sounds with dark tonality make it very versatile. The walnut shell provides enough body to sit well in a heavy rock mix.
Can this drum be used for jazz?: Certainly, the clear and focused sound of the 7-ply walnut shell allows for the nuanced playing required in jazz. The dark tonality is often preferred by jazz drummers seeking a warmer response.
What is the finish on this specific Natal Originals model?: This model features a Sunburst finish. It is designed to offer a classic, stunning style that highlights the grain of the wood.
Is the 14 x 5.5" version better than the 14 x 8" version?: Neither is objectively better, but the 5.5" depth offers a quicker response and more 'snap.' The 8" version would provide a significantly deeper, fatter sound with more volume.
Does this snare come with a case?: Standard retail versions of the Natal Originals Walnut snare typically do not include a case. It is recommended to purchase a 14 x 5.5" padded bag or hard case separately.
What is the typical price for this snare drum?: The typical price range for this model is approximately GBP 360. Pricing may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.