Noble and Cooley Snare Drums at Drum Center of Portsmouth
Drum Center of Portsmouth has partnered with Noble and Cooley to bring you exclusive Noble & Cooley snare drums. We are regarded as one of the top independent dealers of Noble and Cooley Drums. We are not only committed to carrying a wide range of Noble & Cooley snare drums as well as drum sets, we work closely with them to develop new products to keep them on the cutting edge. Please stop by to see and hear our selection of these incredible American-made drums! If you are unable to stop by the shop, check out the videos and information below about some of our current inventory. Please give us a call at 603-319-8109 with any questions. Check out the video of Shane and Tom assisting in the steam bending process!
Frequently Asked Questions
Noble & Cooley Snare Drum FAQs
What makes Noble & Cooley snare drums distinctive?
Noble & Cooley 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. Noble & Cooley snares are made one at a time in Granville, Massachusetts using solid steam-bent shells — a favorite among collectors and recording drummers.
What shell materials does Noble & Cooley offer in their snare drums?
Noble & Cooley'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 Noble & Cooley 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. Noble & Cooley offers piccolos, standard depths, and deep snares across most series.
Is Noble & Cooley a good brand for beginners?
Yes — Noble & Cooley 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 Noble & Cooley's top professional snare drum series?
Noble & Cooley'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 Noble & Cooley snare drums?
Noble & Cooley snare drums appear on countless records across every genre. Many touring drummers — both signature artists and working pros — rely on Noble & Cooley as their main or backup snare in studio and live settings.
Does DCP carry the full Noble & Cooley snare drum lineup?
Drum Center of Portsmouth stocks current production Noble & Cooley 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.