What’s the Deal with 13 Inch Snare Drums?

I’m diving into the world of snare drums and I’ve got my eyes set on the 13 inch models. I’ve been playing drums for a while now, but I find myself really intrigued by this specific size. I’ve heard mixed opinions about how they compare to the more common 14 inch snare drums.

Performance Aspects

  1. Sound Quality:

    • Many drummers claim that 13 inch snares produce a higher pitch and a sharper sound compared to 14 inch ones.
    • But is that true across all brands and types?
  2. Versatility:

    • Some say that the 13 inch snare is more versatile for different genres of music.
    • Can it hold its own in rock, jazz, and even orchestral settings?
  3. Feel & Playability:

    • I’ve tested a few in shops but would love to hear your experiences on how they feel during play.

Comparisons

  • Weight: Does the smaller size make any significant difference in terms of weight and portability?
  • Sensitivity: How are the sensitivities between the two when playing ghost notes and fills?

Recommendations

I’m hoping to get suggestions on models that stand out, whether it’s brands that have a good reputation for 13 inch snares or specific models that you found to be exceptional. Also, if you’ve had experience buying online, were there any tricky aspects you faced?

Conclusion

I know there are quite a few seasoned pros on this forum, so I’m excited to hear your thoughts! Any tips, tricks, or personal experiences you could share would be greatly appreciated as I look to make this decision.

Thanks all!

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I’ve always loved the sound of a 13 inch snare! One key factor to consider is the material. Wood tends to warm up the sound, while metal can offer a sharper attack.

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Absolutely! I’ve heard that birch snares can provide a punchy tone, while maple tends to be warmer. You might also explore the different brands—Ludwig and Gretsch have great options!

Don’t forget about shell thickness! Thinner shells generally offer a brighter sound, while thicker shells provide more body. Test before you buy if you can.

Great point! Also, consider the snare wires. They can significantly affect the sensitivity and responsiveness of the drum.

I personally love the sound of steel snares; they cut through the mix well! Brands like Pearl and PDP offer some affordable yet great-sounding options.

Steel is fantastic! Do you prefer any specific models? I’m looking for something versatile for both rock and jazz gigs.

When it comes to brands, I would highly recommend the Trick Pro 1V. It’s super responsive and looks great too! Definitely fits a range of genres.

That’s a nice pick! But I feel like it might be a bit pricy for some budgets. What about entry-level options?

For a lighter budget, the Mapex Black Panther series has some solid choices. They sound great and won’t break the bank!

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I second that! I’ve had good experiences with their snares. Just be aware of what you want the snare for.

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It really boils down to personal preference. Do you like a dry sound or something more resonant? Testing different snares in-store can provide clarity.

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Very true! And how about dimensions beyond just the 13 inch? They can definitely alter the sound profile.

I’d like to add that the throw-off mechanism is often overlooked but crucial for snare performance. A good one can make a huge difference!

Absolutely! A fancy snare isn’t much good if it doesn’t have a reliable throw-off. Have you found any that stand out?

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Don’t forget to have fun with it! Finding the right snare should be an enjoyable journey. Just like dating… sometimes you push it too hard and it just doesn’t work out, haha!

When tuning a 13 inch snare drum, start by ensuring your heads are in good condition. Use a drum key to tighten all lugs evenly to achieve a balanced sound.

Absolutely! Also, try adjusting the tension slightly higher on the top head for a brighter tone, while keeping the bottom head a bit looser for more sensitivity.

Great tips! I usually dampen the drum with Moongel or a similar product to control overtones. It can help you find that sweet spot for your snare sound.

Damping is key! I’ve found that using a piece of tape can also work wonders if you’re in a pinch.