Snare drum ~An important thing that determines its sound~

snare drum

It is one of the percussion instruments that everyone knows and represents the membranous sound instruments.
Also called small drums or side drums, it is one of the most basic instruments that anyone who aspires to become a percussionist, regardless of genre, cannot avoid.

It is also an instrument that almost all percussionists (or those who aspire to become percussionists) own or want to own, and I think it can be said that it is an instrument that emits a sound that determines the individuality of a piece of music or an individual performer.

eJPC snare drum collection
The snare drum is the most basic instrument for percussionists.
Jazz, rock, pop, brass band and orchestra. Regardless of the music genre, JPC has prepared and listed models that we confidently recommend!　＞＞＞
 

Now, that snare drum.
Why is it called a snare drum?

It's so obvious that no one would even think about it now, but what is a snare drum?

"Drum with snare attached"

That's what it means.
Well, when you say it's obvious, it's a matter of course.

What is a snare?

This term refers to a device that adds that rough noise component unique to snare drums to the drum sound.
(This is based on a person who has studied abroad and is familiar with musical instruments (especially drum sets)...)

Therefore,

• snare strainer
• snare wire
• snare cord
• snare tape

I think it's understandable that the word "snare" is attached to each part of the snare mechanism as a whole.

Now, here's the main topic!

As the title suggests, “Important things that determine the sound of a snare drum”

That is,"Snare wire"！！！！

In the world, it may be more common to call it ``snappy'' or ``sound line'' rather than ``snare wire.''
And this part is literally the heart of the snare drum sound.

I think I've written before that the head plays a large role in determining the sound of drums, which are membranous instruments (or maybe I haven't (^^ゞ)), but when it comes to snare drums, we can't ignore the great contribution that the snare wire makes to the sound.

This is because this small part is responsible for almost all of the snare drum's characteristic "bash", "bap", and "tap" sounds (noise components).

If that's the case, I think there's no way to avoid this jingling in order to create a better sound.

 That's why so many brands release so many different types of snare wires with different materials and structures.

Tips for choosing snare wire

Around the time that the "Pure Sound" snare wire began to be recognized and attract attention in the market, a wide variety of snare wires began to appear, each with their own unique characteristics.

Pure Sound Custom Snare Wire P-1416
The most basic type in Pure Sound's lineup.
Due to the relatively heavy end plate, there is a high degree of adhesion to the snare side head, and the high quality wire provides excellent response and a cohesive sound.
 

As mentioned earlier, there are many different types of models lined up in stores.

It would take a lot of effort, time, and money to find one that matches the sound you are looking for among the many types.

But it's definitely worth trying out.
I think it's probably more valuable than trying out different snare drums. (←At least that's what I think)

1.For now, try a bargain type that you found at a store that is different from the genuine product.

Although snare wires are small parts, many of them are quite expensive.
Trying out a bargain item you found at a store or a recommended cheap model may be a good first step to easily experimenting with changing the snare sound.

Maxtone Snappy 2020
This is a super standard Radic L1930 type snare that is used very often in custom brand snare drums at a great value.
 

Maxtone Snappy Snare Wire 2020N
A super standard snare wire that is often used in custom brand snares.

Just like the type that comes standard on Gretsch snare drums!
 

2. Try everything based on the information posted by players on various social media.

The information shared by players you admire can be very helpful for things other than the game itself.
Snare wires are used in overwhelmingly severe situations, so even if you think that they must be good, you may not be wrong.

Pure Sound Concert Snare Wire C-1412
A Snappy snare wire developed specifically for concerts and orchestras, released by Pure Sound, which has a reputation for its good response and high noise component volume.

The coil winding shape is wider than the standard custom series, and it responds quickly to delicate touches.
 

PEARL Snappy Symphonic S-051
6 high carbon steel snare wires for the Pearl Concert Snare Drum "Symphonic" series.
Not only can you use it as a replacement for the same series, but you can also use it on a regular snare drum to create a unique sound with less noise.

 

Pure Sound Super 30 Snare Wire S-1430
Pure Sound Snappy's 30 wires, which are well-regarded for their responsiveness and loudness of noise components, create a unique sense of blockage that fully utilizes the characteristics of the wires, and also brings out delicate nuances.

This is the perfect item for those looking for a snare drum sound with a lot of grit.
 

3. Ask the store staff what they recommend and try it out.

I'm also curious about the model recommended by a drum shop clerk who has probably tried more snare drums and snare wires than the average person.

SCIROPPE Custom Snare Wire STANDARD 14 inch PS0955-1416N
Completely handmade Snappy by Drum Tech Hirotaka Shinohara!
It has a solid presence, yet is not too intrusive, and its indescribably natural sound is exquisite!
It doesn't have any outstanding personality, but it's definitely good! That's the item!!
 

SONOR Sound Wire Snappy SW1424S
Snare wire is standard equipment on many Sonar snare drum models.
Although it has a soft sound, it has a quick response, and by increasing the number of sounds, you can obtain sufficient volume.
 

LUDWIG ‘63 18-STRAND SNARE WIRES L1963
A modern reprint model that reproduces the pitch and wire diameter of the Snappy that was used in 1963, and has a slot that allows you to use tape in addition to the Snappy cord.
We have achieved an exquisite balance between the shell and snappy sounds that are the origin of the Radic sound.
 

4. Research the types used by acquaintances, friends, and seniors, and try the one that interests you.

 If you don't know the information, your acquaintances or friends may know it!
If you find yourself thinking, ``That person's snare sounds great,'' one way to do this is to quickly ask them what kind of snare wire they use.

◇ ◇ ◇

Of course, we cannot ignore the influence of the mechanism of the strainer itself, the mechanism for fixing the snare wire, and the cords and tape used to attach it.

However, the strainer is a part that is already fixed to the instrument itself, so it is not something that can be easily replaced.Honestly, I wish they would pay more attention to the adjustment of the strainer, the way the wires are attached to the strainer, and even the cords and tape that secure the wires.

 In particular, the tape and cords used to secure the wires are smaller parts than the wires themselves, so they won't hurt your wallet too much. However, these parts can affect the snare wire's response, volume, and even the overall impression of the snare drum sound, so I think you'll discover new things by trying out different types. (← More on this later lol)

eJPC snare cord & tape
A collection of cords and tape to secure the snare wire to the strainer.
By changing the material and type, the response, volume, and sharpness of the snare wire will change dramatically!
 

It's okay to take time!
Or rather,
It takes time!
It will also cost money_ _

But,
"I want you to take the time to find a partner who can bring out the sound you're looking for!"
That's the kind of person I am. . .