Budget-Friendly Beats

At Drum Center of Portsmouth, we are known for carrying the finest snare drum selection in the world.  Some cost upwards of $5,000.  Clearly, that is not the price point %99.9 of people are comfortable with.  For the rest of us, finding a quality snare drum without breaking the bank is the goal.  We've gathered three fantastic offerings for our latest comparison video to help you decide what's the best metal snare drum under $200!

Pearl Modern Utility Steel Snare Drum - 14x6.5

Bellowing, open, and untamed, Modern Utility Steel snare drums add fat, cracking tone to your drum set arsenal. Its thin 1mm beaded Steel shell is rolled to ring with open punch when played at full force, and speaks with a crisp sensitivity at lower impact. The finish is blasted with a satin textured coating which gives it a cool, versatile vibe. The Modern Utility features Pearl's CL arch lugs and smooth SR700 snare strainer for precise tunability. It's an exceptional primary or added snare, and brings a high-volume power to your playing voice.

Tama Soundworks Steel Snare Drum - 14x6.5

This Tama snare drum has a slightly thicker 1.2mm thick steel shell that provides a very powerful, cutting sound that is designed to thrive in live settings, but we've found that the Soundworks Steel snare is great in a recording situation too. If you need the bottom end that modern music requires, coupled with the high end cut to combat loud guitars, the Tama Soundworks steel at Drum Center of Portsmouth is a perfect fit for you. The high quality components make this a solid candidate for the best metal snare drum under $200.

Ludwig Supralite Snare Drum - 14x6.5

The last entry in our Best Snare Drum Under $200 was the Ludwig Supralite.  Supralite series snare drums also feature a thin, beaded steel shell. The hardware consists of solid chrome-over-brass tube lugs, 2.3mm triple-flanged hoops, and brass snare wires.  We are huge fans of Ludwig snare drums, and this low price offering gives you tone, volume and quality in spades.

Your Home for Snare Drums (at any price point)

Whether you're looking for a $200 snare drum or a $2,000 snare drum, Drum Center of Portsmouth has exactly what you're looking for.  We pride ourselves on finding the perfect instrument for YOUR needs.

The snare drum brings a dynamic breadth of range to fill the frequency between cymbals and bass drum.

A good snare will enhance a recording or performance as it intertwines and influences the whole song. A finely tuned snare drum can have a significant impact on the overall product.

The ideal way to really capture a solid snare sound is to have a well-tuned drum, decent drummer, and a great recording room. If you are in the Portsmouth area of North Hampton, the Drum Center of Portsmouth can help with getting a great snare drum and tuning it well. The recording space and skill of the drummer will be on you!

In the long and rich history of music, there’s certainly been standout drummers and songs. Some of those songs bring in an amazing snare sound. As you dive into appreciating the power of a snare drum, check out this list of songs with a killer snare drum sound.

1. Whole Lotta Love – Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin is an iconic band with an iconic sound. This jam starts off with a slow-vamping guitar but it’s clear the song doesn’t take off until the 30-second mark when John Bonham’s snare enters. Guitarist Jimmy Page and lead singer Robert Plant set the stage, but the entrance of Bonham’s snare announces the real kick-off to the song. The entrance of the snare in this song shows how the snare is the most valuable player of the drum kit and an anchor to rhythm. In the right hands, like Bonham’s, the snare drum becomes as important and iconic as any guitar solo.

2. Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana

Smells Like Teen Spirit was the debut of new drummer Dave Grohl on a Nirvana recording, and a very strong one at that. The snare drum keeps the whole song together and keeps the audience drawn into this classic song. Even if the track feels overplayed at times due to its popularity, the snare drum continues to give a killer sound as Teen Spirit’s legacy lives on.

3. It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine) – R.E.M.

This 1987 hit kicks off with a machine-gun delivery on the snare drum and continues to provide a rapid-fire snare sound. It is a unique sound with a military-esque “rat-a-tat” and an engaging energy that keeps the listener hooked. The drums of war are also drums of dance, making you want to jump around and attempt to memorize the rapid lyrics. The snare perfectly fits into what the song is about and keeps you hooked even as the world ends.

4. Rock with You – Michael Jackson

Before Michael Jackson was a zombie in the global phenomenon that was Thriller, there was 1979’s Off the Wall. This album melded genres in a smooth and easily enjoyed way. Rock with You was one of those melds that featured a really smooth and consistent snare sound. The snare at the start is an instantly recognizable introduction to one of Jackson’s most popular songs. It is so smooth and done so well a first-time listener will be tasked with deciding if this is a disco track, soulful ballad, or catchy pop-rock song. For the duration of the song, the snare and sound of Michael Jackson make the three seem almost indistinguishable.

5. Superstition – Stevie Wonder

The snare intro on this timeless song is instantly captivating. For many, it is the calling card of a jaunty riff that keeps its consistent vibe in the whole song. Once that snare hits, true Stevie fans know what is coming. The snare hesitation in the intro between certain notes is a preface to the funkiness that comes in this Motown classic. It is a signature number – and part of that is definitely due to the killer snare sound.

6. Crosstown Traffic – The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Being in Jimi Hendrix’s band meant being easily overshadowed by the genius and talent of Hendrix. However, drummer Mitch Mitchell held his own and lent his talent to the signature sound behind the guitar. In this song, he gets a shining moment on the introduction. It is a brief, propulsive sound that is iconic in the band’s history. The snare sound is pivotal, as it is in many songs, when it sets the mood between repeated notes. That mood is tension and chaos, just like the song’s confusion. The pattern continues, popping in to increase the suspense and then grant melodic catharsis when needed.

7. We Will Rock You – Queen

Alright, in comparison to other snare sounds, this song has a rather simplistic beat. It is an easy switch between two bass drum strokes and a hit on the snare. However, the iconic nature of this song and the importance of setting the pace for the audience is phenomenal. Queen was one of the first bands to really incorporate audience participation with thousands clapping and stomping to the beat. That participation starts and is set by the snare and bass sound on this song. From the start, drummer Roger Taylor creates a masterful snare sound that keeps the audience engaged and wanting more.

Of course, there’s plenty of snare hits not on this list, but it is a start for those looking to get hooked on a snare. This essential piece of a drum set can be dramatic, consistent, or captivating, sometimes all at once. For many songs, it is the unifying part that gives it the hook listeners need and crave.

It is no secret why drummers, and their snares, are pivotal to the success of the band. If you are looking to really create and perfect your snare sound, there are hundreds of options for equipment and snare drums here at Drum Center of Portsmouth.

Building a drum set for your unique sound requires an understanding and appreciation of all that goes into a drum kit. There are multiple drum types, materials, and set-ups that go into this instrument and each requires careful consideration and understanding.

Having a combination of drum sizes and the right materials will go a long way in creating the sound you seek. If you are new to drumming or a seasoned expert, this is the advice you need on deciding how big your drum set should be.

What is in a Drum Set?

With such a variety of drum sets out there, you really need to know what parts you need and what their purpose will be in the music-making process.

The main components are the snare drum, bass drum, one or more mounted toms, and a floor tom. Optional parts include cymbals and other hardware. If you are a beginner, a four piece with the snare, bass, and two toms will be a solid starting point as you figure out your sound.

In terms of optional hardware, you can look into a bass drum pedal, hi-hat stand, snare stand, and cymbals. It is possible to buy all of these in a kit – a cost-effective way to build your drum set.

Another element that is extremely important in building a drum kit is the wood and construction of each part. Many different types of wood are on the market and go far in making unique sounds. Some of those include:

• Maple: the most popular wood for drum making with a warm, balanced tone
• Falkata: a cheaper version of maple that delivers similar sound quantities
• Birch: dense and tough with a bright tone as the product, really great for recording
• Mahogany: this one is said to have a “vintage” sound and produces a warmer sound than maple
• Poplar: produces a similar sound to birch or maple for a cheaper rate
• Basswood: another alternative to maple or birch that gives a great lacquer finish
• And more!

What Type of Music Do You Play?

One of the first steps in deciding how big a drum kit should be is to consider what type of music you are trying to play. Typically, a light jazz sound can successfully utilize a smaller kit. A larger sound requires a larger kit. So, rock music will definitely need a bigger kit for the best sound. The bass drum and toms should be in the same size range with appropriate diameter and depth.

If you want a common drum set combination, most kits will suggest a 14” snare, 12” and 14” toms, and a 20” bass. Toms can be single rack or more. There isn’t a “right” way to combine sizes, number of drums, and other configurations. There are essentially a limitless number of ways to put together a perfect drum set.

What Sound Do You Want?

In line with the type of music you play, your drum set pieces will be influential in producing the right sound. Typically, the differences within a piece will go far in producing the right sound.

For example, take a look at the snare drum. The most common snare size is 14” x 5”, which is easy to tune and play. It gives a medium tension that goes far in producing half the songs in the world. A deeper model, the 14” by 6” will have a lower frequency. It is a better option for rock or pop drum sounds. The 14” x 7” has a lower snare sound. It gives a really deep, ‘thuddy’ sound. The size of the snare depends on the intended outcome, and that goes for other drum set pieces as well.

How Many Pieces Do You Need?

The drum set size will be influenced by how many pieces you want. You can go with the basic four-piece option or something with more pieces to it. If you are a beginner, a four- or five-piece kit is enough to start with. Keep practicing and you can work your way up to the thirty-piece kit that rock god Neil Peart uses. One day.

Anyway, deciding how many pieces you want be a determining factor in drum set size. One of the first additions that beginner drummers usually bring in is a second bass drum. If you are looking to create some bass-heavy sounds, two bass drums might be necessary. Learning how to use one foot pedal is a difficult task, so only go this route if you think you can commit to learning a double bass rhythm.

What Shell Size is Right?

Deciding this factor circles back to the type of music you want to play. The shell can be scrutinized down to the inch, but for the most part just consider:

• Rock/standard sized kits: larger shells, better suited for rock
• Jazz/fusion sized kits: smaller and better suited for lighter music

What is Your Budget?

Drum sets are not cheap and are constantly being tweaked and improved by the drummer. It is an ongoing investment rather than a one-time deal. Deciding how big or small to go will definitely need to be shaped by the budget. If the budget is low, perhaps start smaller, with a lower cost, and work your way up to a bigger kit. Don’t buy more drum than you can realistically afford. After all, if you are working overtime to pay for the upgrades, when will you have time to play?

Ask an Expert

At the end of the day, a drum set is personal and a reflection of the drummer. If you aren’t sure how to create the best sound, talk to an expert! At Drum Center of Portsmouth we’re ready and waiting to help you build the right drum set to get your drumming career started or spur it along. With stock reflecting everything from name brands to complete sets to individual pieces, you’ll definitely be able to build the right drum set at the right size and a great price.

The beat of a drum gives the heartbeat and pulse of so many of the best songs in the world.

Whether the drummer was giving heavy-hitting beats or a smooth ensemble, their work is critical to a band or song’s success. Behind their legends are the drum sets that made their product possible.

With a combination of skill and technological innovation, these drummers built amazing sets responsible for great music. Their drum sets were their armor and weapon all at once, capable of delivering a rhythmic victory as they pound away.

Ready to be inspired by these drummers and their awesome drum sets?

Gene Krupa

No list of drummers would be complete if it didn’t give a nod to the pioneer of drumming as we know it. Krupa was responsible for essentially standardizing the modern drum kit – including using a kick drum and double-sided toms. He became a household name that inspired many in the generations to come to start drumming. His music came to life in a combination of Slingerland and the cymbal maker Armand Zildjian. The outcome was a powerful melody to set future standards. He produced a lot of jazz with swing influences, as well as introducing athleticism and creativity, which would later be influential on the drummers of rock’n’roll.

Ringo Starr

Part of the legendary Beatles, no one can inspire quite like Ringo Starr. His skills and understanding of rhythm remain unmatched. He would hit the stage with his Ludwig Downbeat Kit in signature Oyster Black Pearl. With ‘The Beatles’ emblazoned on the front bass, he created a visual anchor on the musical setup of the band. He and his drum set went far in creating the look and appearance of the modern drummer.

John Bonham

Larger-than-life drummer John Bonham left a lasting impression on the modern drumming community. He reigned as a superior drummer in the 1970s as Led Zeppelin’s drummer. He created a super-cool Ludwig Amber Vistalite kit and produced heavy-hitting, high-speed sounds on all the songs. His music is hard to imitate and remains legendary.

Keith Moon

The Who hit American rock’n’roll with a bang. Keith Moon continued this explosion when he literally blew up his drum kit on live TV. He is known for his off-stage antics and massive 7-piece birch Premier drum kit. This was featured in the “Pictures of Lily” in an unforgettable shade of pink. Even after blowing this kit up in 1967, Moon continued to use Premier drum kits until his death in 1978. He was very experimental for his time, being one of the first to use a double-bass kit.

Neal Peart

Peart became the drummer for Rush in 1974 and immediately set about creating a progressive rock sound for the band. He is well known for the intensely orchestrated drum parts he weaves into the constantly changing musical compositions. Over the years, he perfected a kit like no other. Sporting more than thirty pieces, he is a one-man orchestra behind the drum set. He carefully collaborated with manufacturers to create the drum set and unique sound he brought to Rush.

Ginger Baker

Another drumming revolutionary, this Cream band member brought jazz-influence with a rock feel. He had a huge sound and flamboyant persona to match. He is another progressive starter of the double kick drums. His Ludwig Silver Sparkle kit brought 22-inch and 20-inch kick drums with 14- and 16- inch toms as he wove a progressively rhythmic sound into his music. His music had a heavy African influence as he spent several years living in Nigeria, giving him an understanding of African beat few possess outside of the continent.

Hal Blaine

Hal Blaine is a staple in the Hollywood music industry, having recorded with many legendary performers of his time, including Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and the Beach Boys. He is the most recorded drummer in history – losing count after 35,000 sessions. In that mix included 150 top ten hits and 40 number one hits. His talent behind the drum set lies in his adaptability – as evidenced by the wide variety of musicians he recorded with. His kit is legendary – a combination between a Ludwig Classic Blue Sparkle and a mix of single-headed fiberglass concert toms.

Mitch Mitchell

The Jimi Hendrix Experience would not have been complete without this iconic drummer – who won the job via a coin toss against Aynsley Dunbar. He brought a fusion between jazz and ferocious riffs that were influential behind the shred of Hendrix’s guitar. As part of the Hendrix power trio, he supplied a certain level of improvisation. He could bring a heavy groove capable of flowing as a structured counterpoint to Hendrix’s guitar.

Tommy Ramone

The Ramones have a decidedly punk rock sound aided by the rocket-power drumming speed of Tommy Ramone. The entire band blended great songs with electric guitars and lighting-level drumming. Ramone started out as one of the engineers behind Jimi Hendrix’s Band of Gypsys album before diving into rock fame with The Ramones. He was well known not just for an all-white Rogers drum kit, but also for his signature black sunglasses and black leather jacket. His recorded performances almost didn’t do justice to his unrivaled live performances – especially the legendary Live at the Rainbow NYE 1977 performance. He is an unreal drummer in terms of speed and precision.

Elvin Jones

This man provided a signature musical force behind some of the great jazz musicians – like Miles Davis and John Coltrane. His music and drumming style was unique, expressive, and powerful. He utilized smaller 18-inch kick drum, as well at Gretsch drums and the Zildjian K-series cymbals. The result was a unique sound – particularly influenced by his use of cymbals. He produced a sound akin to ocean waves while never losing time or rhythm.

The list of drummers and their sets could go on – but this list of influential drummers is a solid start. From the early days of Gene Krupa to more contemporary names, there’s been a lot of influence and change in the drumming community. Many of these drummers drew inspiration from the sounds created by the artists before them. If you are feeling inspired and ready to build your own notoriously awesome drum set, check out our Drum Sets and get started today!

Boutique Quality Snares from the Strongest Name in Drums

Tama Star snare drums are ultra-high end snare drums that focus on sound first. Unlike many "boutique" snare drum builders that focus on aesthetics, Tama Star snare drums are built to achieve an optimal tone. Simply put, any furniture maker can build a beautiful drum. At the end of the day it's sound that is most important.

That's not to say Tama Star snare drums aren't beautiful, because they are. No drum manufacturer pays more attention to detail than Tama. Their flagship Star lineup sets the standard by which all others are currently measured in the industry. We tested 10 gorgeous Tama Star snare drums head to head in our most recent video.

Tama Star Bubinga Snare Drum Dark Red Cordia

If you ask around the shop what the best looking Tama Star finish is, many of us will tell you it's the Star Bubinga Dark Red Cordia. From the flawless outer finish, to the immaculate shell construction, this snare drum is an absolute dime-piece.

It sounds as good as it looks. We tested a 14x6.5 and a 14x5.5 model, and neither disappointed. Both deliver immediate low end with a sharp, yet not harsh attack. Tama has a way with Bubinga that exploits the best qualities while minimizing the troublesome ones.

Tama Star Reserve Bubinga/Walnut Snare Drum 14x6.5

The Tama Star Reserve Bubinga Walnut Snare Drum also yields an extremely sharp cut and projection. The hybrid shell of Bubinga and Walnut with Maple Sound Focus Rings creates a solid, clear tone with all the resonance you could ask for. The beautiful Claro Walnut exterior ply lacquered in black see-through gloss adds to the elegance of the snare drum. It also features Sound Arc Hoop and STAR Tube Lugs with lug nuts for accurate tuning.

Tama Star Maple Snare Drum 14x6.5 Gloss Sycamore

Referred to here at the shop as a "Modern Day Radio King", the Tama Star Maple snare drum is a winning combination of vintage sound and modern features. Although they feature one of the most popular and traditional drum shell materials, Star Maple drums have some unique hidden features that set them apart from the rest. The thin 5 ply, 5mm shells are comprised of a 2mm thick solid wood core ply between 1.5mm thick plies. Traditional Maple shells generally sound bright and open. This Star Maple snare drum has those characteristics, but with rich dynamics. The concept is similar to other solid shell drums, but thinner by comparison.

Tama Star Maple Snare Drum 14x5.5 Smoky Black

The single-ply Tama Star Maple snare drum in Smoky Black finish may have been the biggest surprise of the day. We've played a ton of solid shell maple snare drums over the years, so we had our preconceived notion of what it was going to sound like.

We're not sure how, but this single ply snare drum spoke with overwhelming brightness and clarity. No matter how we tuned it, this beauty retained its body and tone. Watch the video and hear it for yourself!

Tama Star Reserve Hand Hammered Copper Snare Drum 14x6.5

The only metal snare drum we tested in this Tama Star snare drum shootout was the Reserve Hand Hammered Copper. The series' first metal snare features a hand hammered copper shell. With mid-low end and tons of volume, the hand hammered shell creates a deeply harmonic overtone. A slightly smaller diameter hammer is used on the edge of the shell compared with the hammer that is used on the center. This gives the shell a unique barrel shape that lends to the special tone it produces.

To complement the shell, Tama added customized 2.3mm brass flanged hoops. The edge of each hoop is slightly shaved down compared to a standard flanged hoop, yielding a sharp, bright attack. The combination of warm, rich resonance with sharp, bright attack offers an original sound that we think you'll love!

Tama Star Reserve Maple/Bubinga Snare Drum 15x8 Caramel Olive Ash Burst

It can be an extremely gratifying sensation to discover a special snare drum that brings a newfound creativity to your playing. All of a sudden, your go-to phrasing is out the window and you're heading down a new path. We feel this is exactly what Tama has accomplished with the beastly 15x8 Star Reserve snare drum.

Its combination of Bubinga/Maple hybrid shell and Brass Mighty hoops provides a huge backbeat. However, it still manages to maintain a great balance of low and high end frequencies. No matter how you tune this drum, its presence is clearly heard and felt. Tuned low, the drum functions wonderfully as a ballad snare with the snare wires engaged. With the wires off, it can double as a floor tom - giving it surprising versatility.

Tama Star Solid Maple Reserve Snare Drum 14x5 Oiled Natural Maple

The 1st model of the Star Reserve snare series was developed to attain unparalleled sensitivity and response for drummers. Tama combined a solid maple shell with a slightly sharper Starclassic bearing edge and Brass Sound Arc hoops. The result is an ultra-sensitive, clear, and bright tone. It also features Tama's unique STAR Tube Lugs with lug nuts for articulate tuning. Supersensitive Hi-Carbon Snare Wires feature a thin brass plate and softer hi-carbon coils that respond to even the softest touch of the batter head.  This Tama Star Reserve in Oiled Maple is an understated instrument that just oozes class and sophistication.

Tama Star Walnut Snare Drum 14x6.5 Red Burgundy

Star Walnut drums are intriguing to us at Drum Center of Portsmouth.  While they are the most "affordable" Star offering, to some, they are the best sounding.  This Tama Star Walnut snare drum was no exception.  When you watch the video, we think you'll find the Walnut's tone will stand out the most.

As with their Star Bubinga shells, Tama seems to bring out the best qualities of Walnut.  This snare just seemed to have a warmer, fatter projection than most other Walnut drums on the market.  This snare drum comes highly recommended.

Tama Star Snare Drum Zebrawood 14x6

Finally, we put the Tama Star Zebrawood snare drum through its paces.  This snare drum can be summed up in one word: unique. With a look and sound unlike just about anything else, this solid-shelled beauty represents a real rarity among the galaxy of snare drums. This is a drum that speaks with the clean, dry crispness of aluminum and backs it up with the ruddy warmth of mahogany. If you are looking for a special snare drum to add to your arsenal of sound, look no further!

Your Home for Tama Star Snare Drums

At Drum Center of Portsmouth, we carry the most Tama Star snare drums you will find anywhere. Our staff understands the subtle tonal difference between each and every Star drum Tama has to offer. When you are ready to explore the unique sounds of Tama's flagship line of ultra-high end drums, give us call.  We will match you up with the sound that is right for you!

Steals,Deals,Savings Galore at Drum Center of Portsmouth on Black Friday 2018!

Get a glimpse of our crazy Black Friday Deals by visiting the page now.  What you see now is regular pricing.  Come back on Black Friday to get INSANE pricing!

First come, first serve. When they are gone - they're gone! 

Just to clarify - what you see now is normal pricing. Come back on Black Friday (or perhaps a little earlier) to see the killer deals!

Also, visit our deals page to save up to 70% off list NOW - while it lasts!

If you don't see something there that you like, we are having our now famous event in store and on Facebook!

The Black Friday Tradition at Drum Center of Portsmouth

Turkey is a Thanksgiving Day tradition in the USA. Coincidentally, just like a drummer, turkeys come with two drum sticks. As you go about celebrating Thanksgiving, post a picture of yourself feasting on a drum stick (the turkey kind!) on our Facebook page and we will give you a free pair of drum sticks with your next order, regardless of size. The choice of drum sticks is up to you... Vic Firth, Vater, Pro Mark, Zildjian. You name it, if we've got it, a pair will be yours for free!

THREE WAYS TO SAVE BIG ON BLACK FRIDAY

We have three cool ways for you to save anywhere from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars on Black Friday. We think that our offers are among the most unique out there, and we hope you agree! Here are the three ways you can save big on Friday!

1) Stop by the shop on Friday wearing black and we will give you 15% off the regular price of anything in the store.*

2) If you cannot make it to the shop, or you are not in the Portsmouth area, post a photo (video is better!) of yourself wearing black with a sign or note saying something to the effect of "I love DCP" on our Facebook page and we'll give you 15% off the regular price of anything we've got. Please note you'll need to call or email to receive the discount.

3) Don't have black clothing? Can't post to Facebook? No worries, we've got you covered. We'll give you 15% off anything in the store that is either black or has the word "black" as a part of the product name, or if you bring some non-perishable canned food that we can donate on your behalf to the local food pantry. Just stop by the shop or give us a call and we'll take care of you.

BONUS: We'll offer an additional 5% off any order (including the above promotions) if you post a video of yourself doing a Johnny Cash cover to our Facebook page... acoustic guitar, spoken word, full band, karaoke-style dub / voice-over, you name it. Knock out a short video and save even more!

NOTE: The main three promotions cannot be combined. You may only combine the bonus 5% off with one of the "big 3." This also does not apply to used/clearance/consignment items.

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GOLD FRIDAY - The George Way Way!

Here's an all week special on George Way Drums: All Way Gold Drums get a $100 rebate after checkout!  Example drum is here and here.  (5.5x14 also available, just reach out for details)
Also, if you buy a George Way Drum Set this week, you will receive a FREE Way Gold Snare Drum, which will be sent following the drum set.**

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* Restrictions apply. Used, consignments, and certain brands are exempt from this promotion.  Contact us for details.
** Snare drum will be sent at a later date.