Gear article

Rogers SuperTen 7 Line 14 x 5 Natural Brass Snare Drum

The Rogers SuperTen 7 Line 14 x 5 Natural Brass Snare Drum is a professional-grade snare featuring a 1.2mm natural brass shell and a ten-lug configuration. It is designed to provide the iconic Rogers backbeat, offering a balance of warmth, resonance, and projection suitable for both studio and live environments.

See live prices

Overview

The Rogers SuperTen 7 Line is a high-specification snare drum that utilises a 1.2mm natural brass shell to produce a distinctive, full-bodied tone. Built to the standards of the historic Rogers brand, this model focuses on providing a versatile backbeat that can adapt to various musical genres. Its physical dimensions—14 inches in diameter by 5 inches in depth—position it as an all-purpose snare capable of high-frequency sensitivity and low-end warmth.

Design and Hardware

A defining feature of the SuperTen is its ten-lug profile, which allows for precise tensioning across the drumhead. This ensures a consistent tuning range and improves the balance between power and sensitivity. The drum is equipped with 2.3mm triple-flanged hoops, which offer a slightly more open sound compared to die-cast hoops while maintaining structural integrity. The use of Rogers' signature 'beavertail' die-cast lugs provides a classic aesthetic while ensuring exceptional tuning stability and durability under heavy play.

Sound Character

The natural brass shell is the primary driver of the SuperTen's acoustic profile. It creates a warm, resonant sound with a rich low-mid response, common in metal-shelled drums of this thickness. The 1.2mm shell is thick enough to provide significant projection and a sharp cut through dense stage mixes, yet it remains responsive enough to capture subtle ghost notes. The result is a dynamic snare that offers a versatile range of volumes and textures.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other professional snare drums, the SuperTen occupies a middle ground between the bright, aggressive crack of stainless steel and the organic, dry thump of wood shells. For example, the DW Drums Collectors Series Stainless Steel Snare typically offers a sharper, louder attack, whereas the British Drum Co. Maverick or Sonor AQ2 (both maple-shelled) provide a more compressed, woody tone. The Rogers SuperTen differentiates itself through the specific harmonic overtones associated with natural brass and its unique ten-lug '7 Line' hardware configuration.

Ideal Applications

Due to its balanced frequency response, the SuperTen is suited for drummers who require a single snare drum to cover multiple duties. Its 5-inch depth provides enough speed for jazz and fusion, while the brass shell's inherent volume makes it equally effective for rock and pop. It is highly regarded as a recording instrument due to its controllable resonance and predictable tuning characteristics.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the shell thickness of the Rogers SuperTen Brass Snare?
The shell is constructed from 1.2mm natural brass, providing a balance of warmth and resonance.
How many lugs does the Rogers SuperTen 7 Line have?
It features a ten-lug profile, which allows for precise tuning and increased stability.
What type of hoops are included with this snare?
The drum is equipped with 2.3mm triple-flanged hoops, designed for durability and an open sound.
What are 'beavertail' lugs?
Beavertail lugs are a signature Rogers die-cast design that provides a vintage aesthetic and reliable tuning tension.
Is the Rogers SuperTen suitable for studio recording?
Yes, its versatile volume range and rich, full-bodied tone make it a highly effective choice for studio environments.
How does brass sound compared to maple snares?
Brass generally offers more projection and metallic warmth compared to the drier, more compressed sound of maple drums like the Sonor AQ2.
What are the dimensions of this specific model?
This model is 14 inches in diameter with a depth of 5 inches.
Does the natural brass shell affect the drum's volume?
Yes, the 1.2mm brass shell enhances projection, allowing the drum to cut through loud live mixes effectively.
What is the typical price for the Rogers SuperTen 7 Line Brass Snare?
The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 849.
How does the ten-lug configuration impact performance?
The ten-lug design ensures a more even distribution of tension across the head, which improves tuning accuracy and sensitivity.
Is this snare drum durable for touring?
Yes, the combination of a 1.2mm brass shell and die-cast beavertail lugs makes it a very durable instrument for regular transport and play.
How does it compare to the DW Collectors Series Stainless Steel snare?
While both are metal snares, the SuperTen's brass shell is typically warmer and more resonant, whereas stainless steel offers a brighter, sharper crack.