What is the shell material of this Yamaha snare?

The shell is constructed from 1.2mm stainless steel, providing a durable and resonant foundation for the drum.

Who helped design the Yamaha Recording Custom Steel Snare?

The drum was designed in collaboration with legendary session drummer and long-time Yamaha artist Steve Gadd.

What are the dimensions of this specific model?

This specific model measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth.

What type of hoops are used on this drum?

The drum is fitted with 2.3mm Dyna Hoops, which are designed to enhance clarity and provide a powerful rimshot.

Which strainers are included with the Recording Custom Steel Snare?

It features Yamaha's Q-type and DC3-type strainers for precise snare wire control.

Does the shell have a centre bead?

Yes, the shell features an outward centre bead, which is a traditional design element that adds strength and influences the drum's resonance.

What kind of drumheads come standard on this snare?

The drum comes equipped with high-quality Remo heads right out of the box.

Is this snare drum suitable for loud music?

Yes, the 1.2mm stainless-steel shell provides a bright and powerful tone specifically designed to cut through loud mixes.

How much does the Yamaha Recording Custom Steel Snare typically cost?

The typical price range for this snare drum is approximately £525.

What makes the lug nuts on this drum special?

The drum uses precision-machined lug nuts to ensure smooth tuning and better overall stability during play.

Is this drum intended only for recording?

While it is part of the Recording Custom series and optimised for studio use, its power and clarity make it equally suitable for live performances.

How does this compare to the DW Collectors Series Stainless Steel snare?

Both feature stainless steel shells and a 14 x 5.5 size, but the Yamaha model is specifically voiced for the Recording Custom series and features Steve Gadd's design influence.

Gear article

Yamaha Recording Custom Steel Snare Drum 14 x 5.5

The Yamaha Recording Custom Steel Snare Drum is a professional-grade 14 x 5.5-inch snare drum featuring a 1.2mm stainless-steel shell. Developed in collaboration with legendary drummer Steve Gadd, it is designed to deliver a bright, cutting tone suitable for high-fidelity recording and live performance.

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Background and Development

The Recording Custom series has long been a staple in Yamaha's percussion lineup. This specific steel snare drum was developed in collaboration with Yamaha artist Steve Gadd. The project aimed to reintroduce the Recording Custom series by integrating modern manufacturing technology and contemporary innovations to optimise the drum's sonic footprint. The design focuses on reliability and clarity, characteristics essential for professional recording environments.

Shell Construction and Hardware

The drum is built around a 1.2mm stainless-steel shell, featuring an outward centre bead for structural integrity and tonal focus. A key feature of this model is the inclusion of precision-machined lug nuts, which ensure tuning stability.

The hardware configuration includes: * Strainers: Q-type and DC3-type strainers for smooth, reliable snare engagement. * Hoops: 2.3mm Dyna Hoops, which provide rigidity and contribute to the clarity of rimshots. * Heads: Equipped with Remo drumheads as standard.

Sonic Character

Due to its stainless-steel construction, this snare produces a bright and powerful tone. The 1.2mm thickness allows the shell to resonate with a sharp attack that can cut through loud musical mixes. The 2.3mm Dyna Hoops further enhance this by providing a defined rimshot sound and increased clarity, making it a versatile tool for various genres that require a dominant snare presence.

Market Position and Alternatives

Positioned at a price point of approximately £525, the Yamaha Recording Custom Steel Snare occupies the professional tier of the market. While it is a primary choice for users already owning a Recording Custom kit, it competes with other premium metal and wood snares.

Alternatives include the DW Drums Collectors Series Stainless Steel snare for those seeking similar metal shells, or the British Drum Co. Maverick and Sonor AQ2 for those preferring maple constructions. For drummers seeking deeper tones, the Natal Originals Walnut 14 x 8" provides a contrast in both material and depth.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of this Yamaha snare?: The shell is constructed from 1.2mm stainless steel, providing a durable and resonant foundation for the drum.
Who helped design the Yamaha Recording Custom Steel Snare?: The drum was designed in collaboration with legendary session drummer and long-time Yamaha artist Steve Gadd.
What are the dimensions of this specific model?: This specific model measures 14 inches in diameter by 5.5 inches in depth.
What type of hoops are used on this drum?: The drum is fitted with 2.3mm Dyna Hoops, which are designed to enhance clarity and provide a powerful rimshot.
Which strainers are included with the Recording Custom Steel Snare?: It features Yamaha's Q-type and DC3-type strainers for precise snare wire control.
Does the shell have a centre bead?: Yes, the shell features an outward centre bead, which is a traditional design element that adds strength and influences the drum's resonance.
What kind of drumheads come standard on this snare?: The drum comes equipped with high-quality Remo heads right out of the box.
Is this snare drum suitable for loud music?: Yes, the 1.2mm stainless-steel shell provides a bright and powerful tone specifically designed to cut through loud mixes.
How much does the Yamaha Recording Custom Steel Snare typically cost?: The typical price range for this snare drum is approximately £525.
What makes the lug nuts on this drum special?: The drum uses precision-machined lug nuts to ensure smooth tuning and better overall stability during play.
Is this drum intended only for recording?: While it is part of the Recording Custom series and optimised for studio use, its power and clarity make it equally suitable for live performances.
How does this compare to the DW Collectors Series Stainless Steel snare?: Both feature stainless steel shells and a 14 x 5.5 size, but the Yamaha model is specifically voiced for the Recording Custom series and features Steve Gadd's design influence.