Available in two sizes, 5.5x14" and 6.5x14", the workhorse black nickel over brass drums are said to be well suited for both live and studio applications.

According to John Good, DW Executive Vice President and Drum Designer, the new snare drum model is very versatile.

John comments on the drum’s features:

"You can use it as a wet, back-beat snare, or crank it up for hip hop or gospel. It has so many possibilities. Guys have been telling us lately that they like our heavy-gauge shells, but want some crack and overtones that only thin shells can offer. Back in the day, we used to get or brass shells from a percussion manufacturer in East LA; those drums were really live sounding! This new Black Nickel snare reminds me of that drum, all kinds of personality!"

The thin, rolled 1mm shell includes a rolled bearing edge and snare beds. The Custom Shop drum can be ordered in any of 5 drum hardware color choices (chrome, black chrome, satin chrome, black nickel and 24 karat gold).

Its standard features include: MAG throw-off system with 3P (3 position) butt plate, True Tone snare wires, True Pitch stainless steel tension rods, 3.0 steel True Hoops and DW Heads by Remo USA.

Each black nickel over brass drum is made to order and can be combined with any DW Custom Shop drumset order. John adds:

"We’re just now launching this drum and artists are telling me that this is the drum they've been waiting for. Last year we offered a stainless steel Collector’s Series drum with a 1mm shell and it was a big hit. With this brass drum, we're giving drummers a snare they can keep forever. No matter what they add to their collection, they’ll want to have this one handy."

Retail price for both the 5.5x14 and 6.5x14 is $667.00.

Other metal snare drums offered in the Collector’s Series line include: copper, bronze, aluminum, steel and stainless steel.