What material is the shell of the Pearl Export 14 x 5.5 snare made from?

The shell is constructed from 6-ply poplar wood. This material choice is intended to provide a full-bodied tone and a strong attack suitable for various musical genres.

What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?

This drum measures 14 inches in diameter with a depth of 5.5 inches. These dimensions are considered standard for a versatile snare that balances sensitivity and volume.

What type of finish is used on the Midnight Blue model?

The drum features a durable wrapped finish in Midnight Blue. This wrap is designed to keep the drum looking sharp while protecting the shell during transport and performance.

Which drum heads are included with the Pearl Export snare?

The drum comes fitted with Remo UT Coated and UC Snare heads. These allow the drum to be played straight out of the box with a balanced and dependable sound.

What kind of hoops does this snare drum use?

The drum is equipped with triple-flanged hoops. These hoops are chosen for their ability to provide a crisp response and to make the tuning process easier for the drummer.

What is the typical price range for this drum?

The Pearl Export 14 x 5.5 Snare Drum typically retails for approximately £129. This pricing makes it an accessible option for those seeking a reliable secondary or replacement snare.

For which playing styles is this snare drum suitable?

Due to its punchy sound and strong attack, it is suitable for all playing styles. It is equally effective for laying down grooves or accenting complex fills.

How does the sound of poplar compare to other woods like maple?

Poplar, as used in the Pearl Export, generally offers a punchier and more direct sound compared to the warmer, more resonant characteristics found in maple drums like the Sonor AQ2.

Is this drum suitable for professional stage use?

Yes, its durable wrapped finish and reliable hardware are specifically designed to handle the demands of live performance and being on the move.

Can this snare drum be integrated into electronic drum kits?

While it is an acoustic drum, it is often categorized alongside electronic kits in retail environments, often used as an acoustic upgrade or part of a hybrid setup.

Does the drum require additional assembly upon purchase?

No, the drum is ready to play straight out of the box as it comes pre-fitted with Remo heads and standard hardware.

How does the depth of 5.5 inches affect the sound?

A 5.5-inch depth provides a 'full-bodied' tone that is deeper than a piccolo snare but more responsive and articulate than deeper 8-inch models like the Natal Originals Walnut.

Gear article

Pearl Export 14 x 5.5 Snare Drum Midnight Blue

The Pearl Export 14 x 5.5 Snare Drum Midnight Blue is a versatile percussion instrument featuring a 6-ply poplar shell designed for durability and a full-bodied tone. Frequently associated with electronic drum kit configurations and practice setups, it provides a punchy sound suitable for diverse musical styles.

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Background and Design

The Pearl Export series has long been established as a standard for reliability in the drumming world. This specific 14 x 5.5-inch snare drum is constructed using a 6-ply poplar shell, a wood choice known for producing a balanced and punchy sound. The drum is finished in a durable Midnight Blue wrap, which is designed to withstand the rigours of frequent transport and stage performance while maintaining a sharp aesthetic.

Technical Features

The drum is equipped with triple-flanged hoops, which facilitate a crisp response and allow for straightforward tuning adjustments. This hardware configuration ensures that the drum can be used for both deep grooves and sharp accents. Out of the box, the snare is fitted with Remo UT Coated and UC Snare heads, ensuring a professional standard of sound quality immediately upon setup.

Sound Character

Defined by its 'full-bodied' tone, the Pearl Export snare offers a strong attack and significant power. The 6-ply poplar construction contributes to a wide sonic range, making it adaptable for various playing styles, from rock to jazz. Its 5.5-inch depth provides a classic balance between snare sensitivity and projection.

Comparative Context

Within the Pearl catalogue and the wider market, this snare occupies a mid-range position, often priced around £129. While maple alternatives like the British Drum Co. Maverick or Sonor AQ2 offer different tonal characteristics, the Pearl Export’s poplar shell provides a specific punchy response that is highly sought after for both practice and entry-to-intermediate level performance.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is the shell of the Pearl Export 14 x 5.5 snare made from?: The shell is constructed from 6-ply poplar wood. This material choice is intended to provide a full-bodied tone and a strong attack suitable for various musical genres.
What are the dimensions of this specific snare drum?: This drum measures 14 inches in diameter with a depth of 5.5 inches. These dimensions are considered standard for a versatile snare that balances sensitivity and volume.
What type of finish is used on the Midnight Blue model?: The drum features a durable wrapped finish in Midnight Blue. This wrap is designed to keep the drum looking sharp while protecting the shell during transport and performance.
Which drum heads are included with the Pearl Export snare?: The drum comes fitted with Remo UT Coated and UC Snare heads. These allow the drum to be played straight out of the box with a balanced and dependable sound.
What kind of hoops does this snare drum use?: The drum is equipped with triple-flanged hoops. These hoops are chosen for their ability to provide a crisp response and to make the tuning process easier for the drummer.
What is the typical price range for this drum?: The Pearl Export 14 x 5.5 Snare Drum typically retails for approximately £129. This pricing makes it an accessible option for those seeking a reliable secondary or replacement snare.
For which playing styles is this snare drum suitable?: Due to its punchy sound and strong attack, it is suitable for all playing styles. It is equally effective for laying down grooves or accenting complex fills.
How does the sound of poplar compare to other woods like maple?: Poplar, as used in the Pearl Export, generally offers a punchier and more direct sound compared to the warmer, more resonant characteristics found in maple drums like the Sonor AQ2.
Is this drum suitable for professional stage use?: Yes, its durable wrapped finish and reliable hardware are specifically designed to handle the demands of live performance and being on the move.
Can this snare drum be integrated into electronic drum kits?: While it is an acoustic drum, it is often categorized alongside electronic kits in retail environments, often used as an acoustic upgrade or part of a hybrid setup.
Does the drum require additional assembly upon purchase?: No, the drum is ready to play straight out of the box as it comes pre-fitted with Remo heads and standard hardware.
How does the depth of 5.5 inches affect the sound?: A 5.5-inch depth provides a 'full-bodied' tone that is deeper than a piccolo snare but more responsive and articulate than deeper 8-inch models like the Natal Originals Walnut.