Snare options

[FunkyJazzer]

Hi guys.

I've posted about snares before, as I'm having trouble deciding which snare, or snare sound is best for me. Despite some of the funk, RnB and rock that I'm playing, I am still looking for an ideal snare drum for jazz, as this is the primary style of music that I play. I don't think I have found one snare that can't be tuned up to fit my jazz playing, but I want one that's perfect for it.

I've been speaking to Todd Plummer of TP Custom Drums, and he has a ready-built stave snare (solid walnut), 14x5". It's an extra-thin shell so it has lots of body and steep bearing edges for a sharp and articulate attack. Never heard the drum or any of his drums so I can't really comment on how a walnut stave shell would suit jazz.

However, I have recently stumbled upon the idea of obtaining a Gretsch round badge snare. How does this one look to you guys?: http://drumshack.co.uk/product.asp?numPageStartPosition=1&P_ID=2550&strPageHistory=cat&strKeywords=&strSearchCriteria=&PT_ID=202

Or how about a more modern model, say from the 80s?: http://drumshack.co.uk/product.asp?numPageStartPosition=1&P_ID=2313&strPageHistory=cat&strKeywords=&strSearchCriteria=&PT_ID=202


Which is YOUR favourite? lol

Cheers,
Lloyd.

[stickers]

Id go with the Older gretsch for only 50 quid more. The value will likely appreciate more than the other. I am not sure which will sound better. No one can tell you that without playing them.

[Deathmetalconga]

If you have the means to get a walnut stave snare, by all means get it. Jazz - in fact most Western music - has traditionally been played on ply drums but stave drums are usually a cut above ply drums. Research stave drums on this site to learn about the particular properties of stave and solid-shell construction and why you may find them superior. A lot has been said about staves here already.

[Unix]

I would go with Todd Plummer, with no hesitation my friend.

[FunkyJazzer]

Yeah I've researched stave drums thoroughly and understand most of the wood properties. I would like a second opinion though, particularly from other stave makers, on the sound of a thin shelled walnut stave snare for jazz.

Also, if we're going with stave shells...

What wood spieces and dimensions would you choose for a Funk / RnB / Soul snare drum? I only ask as I am playing alot of this kind of music and am thinking about getting a new snare to get that sound.

Cheers,
Lloyd.