What is the primary purpose of PureSound Blaster snare wires?

They are professional-quality wires developed for high-volume and high-intensity drumming. They aim to provide a crisp, reliable response that doesn't get lost in loud musical environments.

What material is used for the wires in the Blaster series?

The wires are manufactured using a specially formulated premium-grade steel alloy. This material is chosen for its durability and bright tonal characteristics.

How many strands does this specific model have?

This model features 20 individual strands of wire. This is considered a standard count that balances snare snap with the resonance of the drum shell.

What size snare drum is this model compatible with?

This specific unit is designed for 12-inch diameter snare drums. Using it on larger or smaller drums will result in improper fit and poor sound quality.

What is unique about the end clips on the Blaster series?

The end clips are copper-coloured and feature a specialized angled design. This design helps the wires sit more effectively against the bottom drum head for improved sensitivity.

Are these wires suitable for quiet jazz playing?

While they are versatile, they are specifically engineered for high-intensity drumming. Players seeking a very soft, dark, or vintage jazz sound might find these slightly too bright or aggressive.

Can these be used with a standard snare throw-off?

Yes, these are designed to be compatible with most standard snare drum strainers and butt plates. They can be attached using either snare cord or plastic straps.

How does the steel alloy affect the sound compared to brass wires?

Steel-alloy wires typically produce a brighter, sharper, and more cutting sound than brass. Brass is generally warmer and softer, whereas these steel wires prioritize projection.

What is the typical price for these snare wires?

In the UK market, these wires typically retail for approximately £27. This reflects their positioning as a professional-grade replacement part.

Who is the manufacturer of Blaster snare wires?

They are manufactured by PureSound, a brand well-regarded for specializing in high-performance snare wire systems. PureSound is currently a subsidiary of D'Addario.

Do these wires help with sympathetic snare buzz?

The angled end clips are designed to help the wires lay flat, which can reduce inconsistent buzzing. However, some sympathetic vibration is natural and depends on drum tuning and room acoustics.

Is the copper colour on the clips purely aesthetic?

While the copper colour is a signature look of the Blaster series, the clips themselves are made of steel. The colour helps drummers quickly identify the series in the PureSound product line.

Gear article

PureSound Blaster Series Snare Wires (20 Strand, 12-inch)

The PureSound Blaster Series 20-strand snare wires are professional-grade drum components engineered specifically for high-volume and high-intensity musical applications. Constructed from a premium-grade steel alloy, these wires feature distinctive angled copper-coloured end clips designed to increase snare response and sensitivity.

PureSound Blaster Series Snare Wire 20 Strand 12

See live prices

Overview

The Blaster Series by PureSound represents a specialized line of snare wires intended for drummers who require durability and projection. The 20-strand, 12-inch model is tailored for smaller diameter snare drums, providing a significant increase in wire-to-head contact compared to standard wire sets. These components fall under the category of professional parts and spares, often used to upgrade factory-standard hardware.

Construction and Key Features

The primary feature of the Blaster Series is the use of specially formulated premium-grade steel-alloy wires. These wires are attached to copper-coloured end clips that are unique for their angled design. This specific geometry ensures that the wires sit flush against the snare-side head, which facilitates a faster response and reduces the 'sympathetic vibrate' often associated with poorly seated wires. The 20-strand configuration is the industry standard for balanced sensitivity and shell resonance.

Fender Jazzmaster Pickup Covers Aged White

Sound and Performance Character

In high-intensity drumming environments, standard snare wires can often lose their definition or become overwhelmed by the volume of the shell. The Blaster Series is designed to maintain a crisp, sharp attack even at high decibel levels. The steel alloy provides a bright, penetrating sound that allows the snare drum to cut through dense musical arrangements without sacrificing the subtle ghost notes required for technical playing.

Target User and Compatibility

This 12-inch model is ideally suited for drummers using secondary side-snares, soprano snares, or smaller main snares popular in jungle, drum and bass, and pop genres. It is particularly effective for players who perform in loud live settings or recording environments where a high-intensity snare crack is desired. It pairs well with high-tension heads such as the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side for those seeking maximum durability.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard chrome-plated wires, the PureSound Blaster's steel alloy offers a more aggressive and consistent response. While traditional wires may offer a warmer, 'vintage' tone, the Blaster series prioritizes projection and clarity. When compared to larger 30 or 42-strand wires, the 20-strand Blaster allows for more of the natural drum shell tone to be heard, preventing the sound from becoming excessively choked or overly 'buzzy'.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of PureSound Blaster snare wires?: They are professional-quality wires developed for high-volume and high-intensity drumming. They aim to provide a crisp, reliable response that doesn't get lost in loud musical environments.
What material is used for the wires in the Blaster series?: The wires are manufactured using a specially formulated premium-grade steel alloy. This material is chosen for its durability and bright tonal characteristics.
How many strands does this specific model have?: This model features 20 individual strands of wire. This is considered a standard count that balances snare snap with the resonance of the drum shell.
What size snare drum is this model compatible with?: This specific unit is designed for 12-inch diameter snare drums. Using it on larger or smaller drums will result in improper fit and poor sound quality.
What is unique about the end clips on the Blaster series?: The end clips are copper-coloured and feature a specialized angled design. This design helps the wires sit more effectively against the bottom drum head for improved sensitivity.
Are these wires suitable for quiet jazz playing?: While they are versatile, they are specifically engineered for high-intensity drumming. Players seeking a very soft, dark, or vintage jazz sound might find these slightly too bright or aggressive.
Can these be used with a standard snare throw-off?: Yes, these are designed to be compatible with most standard snare drum strainers and butt plates. They can be attached using either snare cord or plastic straps.
How does the steel alloy affect the sound compared to brass wires?: Steel-alloy wires typically produce a brighter, sharper, and more cutting sound than brass. Brass is generally warmer and softer, whereas these steel wires prioritize projection.
What is the typical price for these snare wires?: In the UK market, these wires typically retail for approximately £27. This reflects their positioning as a professional-grade replacement part.
Who is the manufacturer of Blaster snare wires?: They are manufactured by PureSound, a brand well-regarded for specializing in high-performance snare wire systems. PureSound is currently a subsidiary of D'Addario.
Do these wires help with sympathetic snare buzz?: The angled end clips are designed to help the wires lay flat, which can reduce inconsistent buzzing. However, some sympathetic vibration is natural and depends on drum tuning and room acoustics.
Is the copper colour on the clips purely aesthetic?: While the copper colour is a signature look of the Blaster series, the clips themselves are made of steel. The colour helps drummers quickly identify the series in the PureSound product line.