“Rock With You” by Michael Jackson, “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder, “Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana: three iconic songs in three very different styles. What do they all have in common?
They all have a prominent snare at the center of their sound.
Snare drums bring the most dynamic element to any drum kit. Snares can be punchy and sharp or deep and resonant. They can be bright or dark, anchor a rhythm or drive it out of control.
Though snares are vital in constructing a solid kit, buying a good one doesn't have to break the bank. Here are 8 of the best snares on the market under $500.
1. Tama Metalworks Matte Black Steel Snare Drum
The Tama Metalworks line has an ultra-cool look and is popular with novice drummers. That's because they're inexpensive, stylish, and pack a real bang for your buck.
PROS
- The real advantage of this drum is that, for the price, it has a powerful sound that cuts through any live arrangement.
- The tone is true, and the ring is pleasing, but what you come to the Metalworks line for is power. This drum really rocks.
CONS
- The pro of the matte black Metalworks snare is its power. That's also its con. If any drum is going to take over a kit, it will be the snare. You must play this one carefully.
Summary
Tama backs all its products with a great warranty package—one year on metal hoops and hardware and five years on shells. You're going to love the dynamic sound of this one, but even if you don't, you're covered.
2. Pearl Sensitone Heritage Alloy Snare Drum
The versatile Sensitone line from Pearl has been around forever and has been used to great effect in rock, pop, and even classical music. The Heritage Alloy Snare is a sleek, luxurious instrument with a beautiful tone that has a lot of flexibility.
PROS
- This is a drum with superb volume. The sound is rich and sings in a live setting.
- The tuning range is excellent on heritage alloy drums. Go high, low, and anywhere in between.
CONS
- Pearl's stock drumheads aren't everyone's favorite. You may have to switch yours out to get the sound you want.
Summary
The Sensitone line has stood the test of time for a reason. They're great for drummers of all levels, and the construction is killer.
3. DW Performance Satin Tobacco Snare Drum
DW's Performance line contains their mid-tier options, significantly better buys than those in the Pacific Drums & Percussion Series, but not quite as sterling as their custom-made snares.
But this smoky red snare is a bestseller amongst pros because of the quality of its build.
PROS
- The best thing about the Performance series is its projection. The sound soars out of these snares, enveloping everyone in the room.
- Fundamental pitch is easy to tune up and down, but this drum's 1mm rolled steel hardware makes it ideal.
CONS
- There aren't a lot of cons to this drum, but if there had to be one, it would be that the rumble doesn't go quite as low as it could.
Summary
The DW Performance is one of the best drums on the list, hands down. These snares will help you perfect your sound and play out rather than in, whether you're in the studio or on the stage.
4. Canopus Ash Natural Grain Oil Snare Drum
The wood grain on this drum might make you remember the glory days in those smoke-filled '70s basements. And the sound of the Canopus Ash snare harkens back too.
PROS
- The vintage sound of this drum comes from the ash wood it's constructed from, which gives the tone its dry, resilient quality.
- Classic sound
CONS
- The sound isn't as versatile in this one. If you like light resonance, go with Canopus. If you don't, you'd better get used to it!
Summary
The natural grain oil finish on this snare makes it one of the classiest picks on this list.
5. Ahead Black Chrome On Brass Snare Drum
The perfect drum for beginners, the Ahead Black Chrome features throw-off, hoops, wires, and tension rods. It brings sound and stability without having to fuss with customization.
PROS
- The dynamic assemblage of this drum gives it a warm sound that delivers crisp, ringing notes.
- Warm tones
CONS
- These drums perform well overall, but their basic, starter-pack feel might not be the best option for more experienced players.
Summary
Give yourself a solid leg to stand on with the Ahead Black Chrome snare.
6. Gretsch Brooklyn Satin Walnut Snare Drum
Gretsch is one of the oldest manufacturers of drums still running today. Founded in 1883 in Brooklyn, the snare in their signature Brooklyn line oozes love and expertise out of every iota.
PROS
- Majorly popular - The Brooklyn line has a brilliant sound that's a favorite of pro drummers everywhere. This snare is top of the line.
CONS
- Not for beginners - If you're a beginner, steer clear. Gretsch makes drums more tailored explicitly to novices—the Brooklyn snare is not that drum.
Summary
A glittering outside and thrumming inside, the Gretsch Brooklyn snare combines the highest tech with the most refined sounds.
7. Ludwig Acrolite Hammered Snare Drum
The complete opposite of the Gretsch, this Ludwig snare is a favorite of student drummers. Walk into any local music store, and you'll probably see a Ludwig drum kit set up for customers to play.
PROS
- Not just for beginners - Don't underestimate Acrolite because teachers and students favor it. It's such a great beginner's drum because it's perfectly constructed.
- Winning qualities - It's easy to tune, extremely durable, and has a bright sound that sings.
CONS
- Sour snare wires - A complaint sometimes made about Ludwig Acrolite drums is that the snare wires aren't the best quality. They may need replacing sooner than later, as may the throw-offs.
Summary
These drums are of excellent quality. The sound is clean and clear, and the combo of 2.3mm triple-flanged hoops and classic bowie lugs give it a solid build.
8. Mapex Black Panther Nucleus Snare Drum
Last but not least is the stunning Black Panther Nucleus snare from Mapex. It's impressive that Mapex still packed its Design Lab Air Flow Venting and Soniclear Snare Beds into such an affordable drum. It's an absolute steal.
PROS
- Throw off - The throw-off is incredible on this one. The Black Panther operates smoothly and soundly.
- Venting technology - The venting technology makes for great resonance.
CONS
- Tuning - The challenge here is tuning. You'll need patience to get the sound that you want.
- Stock heads - You may also want to change the stock heads.
Summary
Overall, you can't go wrong with a Mapex drum. They've been manufacturing great instruments for as long as they've been in business.
Get the Perfect Kit
Whether you're a novice looking for the perfect snare to complete your drum kit, or you're a seasoned pro seeking a new sound, Drum Center of Portsmouth has you covered when it comes to snares.
Drum Center's staff of knowledgeable professionals guide you to the right snare, and we don't leave any box left unchecked. Check out our whole collection at Drum Center of Portsmouth.