Mapex Snare Drums at Drum Center of Portsmouth
Mapex Snare Drums, starting with the Black Panther Snares, Black Panther Design Lab Snares,Armory and MPX snares have become industry leading snare drums. The value to performance ratio is off the charts. With constant refinements, notably the Sonic Saver Hoops, and the Cylinder-Drive Strainer (which is one of the best throwoffs out there) the Black Panther snares are the ones to be looking at.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mapex Snare Drum FAQs
What makes Mapex snare drums distinctive?
Mapex 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. Mapex Black Panther snares are among the best-value pro snares on the market; the Saturn and Armory lines extend the lineup across kit and snare formats.
What shell materials does Mapex offer in their snare drums?
Mapex'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 Mapex 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. Mapex offers piccolos, standard depths, and deep snares across most series.
Is Mapex a good brand for beginners?
Yes — Mapex 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 Mapex's top professional snare drum series?
Mapex'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 Mapex snare drums?
Mapex snare drums appear on countless records across every genre. Many touring drummers — both signature artists and working pros — rely on Mapex as their main or backup snare in studio and live settings.
Does DCP carry the full Mapex snare drum lineup?
Drum Center of Portsmouth stocks current production Mapex 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.