DRUMMER CAFE

I decided I need a new snare drum, and I'd like suggestions as to what sizes, materials, or makes and models I should look into.

I'm really interested in going all out and getting a custom snare.  I have some preferences for aestetics (spelling) that aren't really available in off the shelf drums.  I also have a preference for wood.

The sound I'm looking for is mildly dry, but too dry.  I want good crack, but not too much.  I definatley don't want it to sound like a gunshot in any way, or like a marching snare.

Responsiveness, good sensitivity but not too sensitive, and body are other adjectives I though of.  Again with body, it can't be too much.

I want it to be a little bit wild, where I can get ringing rimshots.

I'm very picky as you can see.  I can't really imagine what it should sound like, so I will definatly do a good amount of playing.  I've been thinking that a 5x14 drum would be good, with triple flanged hoops.

I'd like suggestions though.. Thanks in advance.

Jeff

Whatever really.  If it's more expensive I'll just save my pennies.

oh you mean the "perfect" snare?

good luck    

ok, last post was end of workday silliness

this is sounding like a wood drum to me.  heres what i was thinking.

drier but with some ring = 8 to 10 ply.  thin enough to ring when whacked, but thick enough to be dried up easy.

sensitivity, but plenty of body = 5 to 6 deep, with good snare wires.  the right wires can bring out sensitivity you didnt think possible.  id almost say go with a 6, lots of body that way.  and with the right wires, plenty sensitive.

theres a lot of variables here. 5" depth might be better with a 8 ply shell, 6" with 10 ply.  to find that balance between dry crack and ringy wood.  i was just looking at a mapex catalog and was entranced by thier walnut deep forest drum.  and i think a 14x5.5 one of these might be quite the charmer for you.  

uh...

xray vision?

 

i would suggest getting a brass snare... i got one with my new kit about 6 months ago and i love it. it's a sonor s class-pro brass. i'm not suggesting just a sonor brass but any you like... the brass snares are very versatile, you get a lot of low end out of it if needed and it's great for my jazz and fussion, and when i rarely play rock.