The Pearl free floating snare drum has been my “go-to” for the last ten years or so. There are many options available in shell choice and dimensions (depths), but my favorite so far has been the brass shell with a depth of 6.5 inches (pictured at left is the brass snare with a depth of 5″).
Why do I love this snare so much?
It is extremely versatile. I can always make it sound good in any situation.
Performing live? I’ve played it on jazz gigs where I used a lighter touch and I’ve beaten the crap out of it on all-rimshot-all-the-time rock gigs.
In the studio? I recently used it on recording sessions where I was asked to play: heavy metal, fusion, funk, disco and power pop.
Yup. I love this snare drum. In fact people I play with actually have asked for it when I thought to try a different snare.
The Pearl free floating snares are available in a variety of different dimensions as well as with different shell materials (steel, bronze, brass, mahogany, maple, birch, etc.). I’m excited to try some new versions of my trusty “go-to.”
The snare drum is arguably the most important voice on a drummer’s kit, so getting it right is extremely important. I urge you to check out these snares if you’re still trying to find the right sound.
More here from Pearl’s website: Free Floating Brass Snare
He first gained attention as one of the winners of Modern Drummer magazine's very first drum solo contest, judged by Rush's Neil Peart.
He's played with Oz Noy, Will Lee, Alison Krauss, Curtis Stigers, Emily Remler, Joel Hoekstra, GE Smith, Andy York, Marshall Crenshaw, Tony Shanahan, The Drifters, The Marvelettes, Big Brother and The Holding Company, and many other artists.
For more info: onlinesessiondrummer.com
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Yes, The pearl free floating snare drum is an amazing snare drum.
Amazing sound!
Thanks
Hi Ben –
Thanks….yes….I love those snares. I have two now….one in brass and one in stainless steel…both are 6.5 inches deep. I may need to get another one that is “standard’ depth soon. Really love them. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Regards,
Mark F
I own a 5 x 14 older model with the snares stretched completely across the resonant head similar to Ludwig Supersensitive; they no longer use that system. It sounds as good or better than my Ludwig Classic Maple 6 1/2 x 14 when played side-by-side. Amazing drum! Obviously I prefer maple. Incredible sound quality and crack.
Thanks for letting us know, Robert! I’m glad you’re happy with that drum.