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Keplinger Snare Drums at Drum Center of Portsmouth
Gregg Keplinger is a rare hybrid of drumming talent and percussive artisan. Early in his career, Gregg toured Mexico straight out of high school, worked with the house band for a circus, haunted the halls of his jazz-drumming hero Elvin Jones in New York, and worked closely in-studio and on stage with a young Matt Cameron during Soundgarden's "Superunknown" glory days and continued on with Matt to work with Pearl Jam.
After finding a 1930s Ludwig 6.5x14 steel snare with an otherworldly tone and a price to match, Gregg followed in the footsteps of the elite class of drum craftsmen to which he now belongs - he improvised and innovated. Sourcing stainless steel from an industrial pipe manufacturer in Seattle, Gregg set to building the first of many custom snare drums, and thus the "Keplinger" vision - for hefty metal-shell snares, and percussion with an industrial personality - was born. Fittingly, Elvin Jones was the proud recipient of one of "Kep's" first snare drums.
Gregg's instruments are truly for players, by a player, and each shows Kep's utilitarian sensibility and bears its maker's individuality.
Solid, dynamic, handcrafted and unique - that's what "Keplinger" means.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keplinger Drums Snare Drum FAQs
What makes Keplinger Drums snare drums distinctive?
Keplinger Drums has built a reputation for consistent craftsmanship, sound character, and reliable hardware. Their snare drums are used across rock, jazz, pop, country, R&B, and studio recording by working drummers at every level. Keplinger snares are handmade copper and stainless steel drums known for their unique metallic tone and detail-focused construction — favorites among drummers seeking a distinctive metal-shell voice.
What shell materials does Keplinger Drums offer in their snare drums?
Keplinger Drums's snare drum lineup spans wood shells (maple, birch, mahogany, walnut, and exotic species), metal shells (brass, steel, aluminum, bronze), and hybrid or stave constructions. Each material delivers a different tonal character — wood for warmth, metal for cut, hybrids for blended response.
What size Keplinger Drums snare drum should I choose?
The 14 inch by 5.5 inch standard is the most versatile and the default starting point. Shallower drums (3 to 4 inch deep) give a tight, crisp sound for funk and live use; deeper drums (6.5 to 8 inch) add body and low end. Keplinger Drums offers piccolos, standard depths, and deep snares across most series.
Is Keplinger Drums a good brand for beginners?
Yes — Keplinger Drums offers entry-level snare drums that deliver pro-quality sound at accessible price points, plus mid-tier and pro models that scale up as your playing develops. Many of their entry-level snares hold their resale value well.
What are Keplinger Drums's top professional snare drum series?
Keplinger Drums's flagship pro snare lines are favorites in studios and on stages worldwide. They feature premium shells, top-grade hardware, and finishes built for both visual impact and long-term durability.
Where can I hear Keplinger Drums snare drums?
Keplinger Drums snare drums appear on countless records across every genre. Many touring drummers — both signature artists and working pros — rely on Keplinger Drums as their main or backup snare in studio and live settings.
Does DCP carry the full Keplinger Drums snare drum lineup?
Drum Center of Portsmouth stocks current production Keplinger Drums snare drums across entry, mid, and pro tiers, plus limited editions and signature models when available. If you don't see a specific model in stock, contact us — we can often special-order it.