What is the primary material used for the PDP Concept Maple Snare shell?

The shell is constructed from premium European maple. This material is chosen for its durability and its ability to provide a highly versatile, musical tone.

What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?

The drum measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth. This is a standard size that offers a balance between low-end body and high-end crack.

How does the MAG throw-off function?

The MAG throw-off is a mechanism that securely holds the snare wires in place. It is designed to allow for instant timbre changes by dropping the wires away from the bottom head with a quick, clean action.

What kind of snare wires are included?

The drum is equipped with a set of high-sensitivity carbon steel snare wires. These wires are designed to offer a crisp, articulate response to the drummer's strikes.

What are True-Pitch tension rods?

True-Pitch tension rods feature finer threading than standard tension rods. This allows the drummer to achieve more precise tuning and ensures the drum maintains its intonation even during heavy playing.

What type of hoops are fitted on the PDP Concept Maple Snare?

The drum features heavy-duty triple-flanged hoops. These hoops are designed to provide a powerful attack and a resonant, open sound.

What finish does this specific model have?

This specific model features a Satin Black finish. It is designed to be a sleek, understated accompaniment to the Concept Maple drum series.

Does this snare drum feature specific bearing edges?

Yes, it features back-cut bearing edges. This specific edge profile is designed to provide a more powerful attack and a deeply musical response from the shell.

What is the typical price for this snare drum?

The typical retail price for the PDP Concept Maple 14 x 5.5 snare drum is approximately £237. This places it in the mid-range category for professional snare drums.

Is this snare drum suitable for beginners?

While it is built to professional specifications, its versatility and price point make it a suitable upgrade for intermediate players or a high-quality option for beginners looking for a long-lasting instrument.

How does this drum compare to the Tama Starclassic Performer LTD?

While both are high-quality maple-based drums, the PDP Concept Maple focuses on specific hardware like the MAG throw-off and True-Pitch rods for tuning stability, whereas the Tama often features different aesthetic finishes like Dusty Rose.

Can this snare drum be used for recording?

Yes, its European maple shell and back-cut bearing edges provide a versatile tone and clean attack that is well-suited for studio recording environments.

Gear article

PDP Concept Maple Snare Drum 14 x 5.5 Satin Black

The PDP Concept Maple Snare Drum 14 x 5.5 is a premium snare drum constructed from European maple, designed to complement the Concept Maple drum series. It features high-end hardware including the MAG throw-off and True-Pitch tension rods to provide professional-grade reliability and tuning stability.

See live prices

Overview

The PDP Concept Maple Snare Drum 14 x 5.5 is a professional-tier snare designed for versatile performance across various musical genres. Developed as the primary snare accompaniment for the Concept Maple drum kit series, this instrument focuses on high-quality construction materials and modern hardware appointments. The 14" diameter and 5.5" depth represent a standard configuration that balances body with snare sensitivity.

Construction and Key Features

The shell is crafted from premium European maple, a wood choice selected for its durability and acoustic properties. Key hardware components include:

Bearing Edges: The shell features back-cut bearing edges designed to enhance attack and musical response.
MAG Throw-off: A high-performance mechanism that holds carbon steel snare wires securely in the 'on' position and allows for instant, clean timbre changes.
True-Pitch Tension Rods: These rods use finer threading than standard hardware, allowing for more precise intonation and consistent tension across the drumhead.
Hoops: Equipped with heavy-duty triple-flanged hoops that contribute to a powerful rimshot and overall shell resonance.

British Drum Company British Drum Co. Maverick 14 x 5.5 Maple Snare Drum

Sound Character

The use of European maple gives this snare a deeply musical response characterized by a versatile tone. The combination of the maple shell and back-cut bearing edges ensures a sharp attack while maintaining the warmth typical of wood shells. The high-sensitivity carbon steel snare wires provide a crisp articulation, making it responsive to various playing styles, from light ghost notes to heavy backbeats.

Suitability and Comparisons

This snare is suited for drummers looking for a reliable, all-purpose wood snare drum that performs well in both studio and live environments. Its Satin Black finish offers a neutral aesthetic that fits most kit setups.

Compared to the British Drum Co. Maverick 14 x 5.5, which also utilizes maple, the PDP focuses on utility-driven hardware like the MAG throw-off. For those seeking different tonalities, the Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 8 offers a deeper, darker sound, while the DW Drums Collectors Series Stainless Steel provides a brighter, more aggressive metallic bite. The PDP Concept Maple occupies a middle ground, offering a more versatile and balanced sound profile than extreme-depth or metal alternatives.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used for the PDP Concept Maple Snare shell?: The shell is constructed from premium European maple. This material is chosen for its durability and its ability to provide a highly versatile, musical tone.
What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?: The drum measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth. This is a standard size that offers a balance between low-end body and high-end crack.
How does the MAG throw-off function?: The MAG throw-off is a mechanism that securely holds the snare wires in place. It is designed to allow for instant timbre changes by dropping the wires away from the bottom head with a quick, clean action.
What kind of snare wires are included?: The drum is equipped with a set of high-sensitivity carbon steel snare wires. These wires are designed to offer a crisp, articulate response to the drummer's strikes.
What are True-Pitch tension rods?: True-Pitch tension rods feature finer threading than standard tension rods. This allows the drummer to achieve more precise tuning and ensures the drum maintains its intonation even during heavy playing.
What type of hoops are fitted on the PDP Concept Maple Snare?: The drum features heavy-duty triple-flanged hoops. These hoops are designed to provide a powerful attack and a resonant, open sound.
What finish does this specific model have?: This specific model features a Satin Black finish. It is designed to be a sleek, understated accompaniment to the Concept Maple drum series.
Does this snare drum feature specific bearing edges?: Yes, it features back-cut bearing edges. This specific edge profile is designed to provide a more powerful attack and a deeply musical response from the shell.
What is the typical price for this snare drum?: The typical retail price for the PDP Concept Maple 14 x 5.5 snare drum is approximately £237. This places it in the mid-range category for professional snare drums.
Is this snare drum suitable for beginners?: While it is built to professional specifications, its versatility and price point make it a suitable upgrade for intermediate players or a high-quality option for beginners looking for a long-lasting instrument.
How does this drum compare to the Tama Starclassic Performer LTD?: While both are high-quality maple-based drums, the PDP Concept Maple focuses on specific hardware like the MAG throw-off and True-Pitch rods for tuning stability, whereas the Tama often features different aesthetic finishes like Dusty Rose.
Can this snare drum be used for recording?: Yes, its European maple shell and back-cut bearing edges provide a versatile tone and clean attack that is well-suited for studio recording environments.