At the Drum Center of Portsmouth, we’re often asked how they can achieve the legendary tone and projection of the original Tama Bell Brass snare drum that has been used on countless recordings over the years. We generally have 2 options as a response: 1) spend around $10,000 on eBay for the genuine article, or 2) check out the FOUR heavy metal USA Gretsch offerings!
Gretsch USA Solid Aluminum Snare Drum
The Gretsch USA Solid Aluminum Snare Drum is a very interesting snare drum. We love the versatility of aluminum as a snare drum material. It has a dry projection with extreme articulation that seems to sound great in any environment.The Solid USA Aluminum shell dials up these desirable qualities exponentially with its 3mm seamless shell PLUS integrated reinforcement rings!
Gretsch USA Solid Steel Snare Drum
We consider the Gretsch USA Solid Steel Snare Drum to be the sleeper in this line. Its deep black chrome appearance is unassuming, but the power, versatility, definition, and feel under the stick is unmistakable! Our favorite properties of steel ring out in spades, thanks to the massive 3mm shell with reinforcement rings. Like all four of these snare drums, it also benefits from die cast hoops, lightning throwoff, and 42-strand wires.
Gretsch USA Bell Brass Snare Drum
Bell brass snare drums are sought after for their smooth, pure timbre and controlled overtones, not to mention their powerful cut. The Gretsch 3mm cast bell brass shell shares the warm characteristics of wood with the powerful cut of a metal drum. If you’re looking for THAT sound with just the right amount of clean ambient tone, this is the one!
Gretsch USA Phosphor Bronze Snare Drum
When you absolutely have to destroy every 2 and 4 in the room! This is the heaviest drum Gretsch offers, both in actual weight and in the sound it produces. A BEASTLY 5mm shell with a 45-degree bearing edge is at the core, providing projection and clarity like no other. The USA Phosphor Bronze is among the most extraordinary snare drums we carry at DCP, and we simply cannot recommend it highly enough!
In summary, if you're looking for a more cost effective solution to achieving that legendary snare drum sound in your head, we believe the Gretsch USA Solid Metal snare drums will get you there. This explosive lineup comes in several sizes, and you can check them all out HERE. If you're ready to pull the trigger on one of these special instruments, trust the actual drummers at Drum Center of Portsmouth to help you dial in "That Great Gretsch Sound"!