Questions Regarding Reference Snares

[zildjian_chris]

So after ordering my 16x14 Reference floor tom, I'm toying with the idea of ordering a Reference snare.

I'm thinking of going a more neutral color scheme for the snare (instead of Inca Gold burst) so that it could work with other kits as well.

I'm thinking about Matte Black Mist. Not too sure between Chrome and Nickel.

A few questions that you may be able to provide some valuable information on:

1.) What is the primary difference in sound between the Reference and Reference Pure snares? I understand that the Reference snares are a lot thicker at 20 plies.

2.) I've gone a 14" snare as it seems to be the industry standard. But I've started to see more 13" snares. I like the idea of having a slightly smaller snare as I think it might fit a little better physically, but what I really want to know is about the sound. Are 13"'s just as versatile?

3.) How much do custom order Reference/Pure snares usually cost?

Thanks in advance

[RG1820X]

I read what you wrote but . . . What about this https://www.ebay.com/itm/30356343462...QAAOSwTL1euI8B

[MitchLyons]

If you're looking for versatility, you probably won't find it with a standard Reference. The 20-ply shells are good for being loud as all ****, so if that's not your ideal situation, I'd go for a Reference Pure so you can still get the blended shell. I just got another 13" snare after a few years of not owning one and it's awesome but I think 14" is the way to go in almost any situation.

[Mike Foreman]

So after ordering my 16x14 Reference floor tom, I'm toying with the idea of ordering a Reference snare.

I'm thinking of going a more neutral color scheme for the snare (instead of Inca Gold burst) so that it could work with other kits as well.

I'm thinking about Matte Black Mist. Not too sure between Chrome and Nickel.

A few questions that you may be able to provide some valuable information on:

1.) What is the primary difference in sound between the Reference and Reference Pure snares? I understand that the Reference snares are a lot thicker at 20 plies.

2.) I've gone a 14" snare as it seems to be the industry standard. But I've started to see more 13" snares. I like the idea of having a slightly smaller snare as I think it might fit a little better physically, but what I really want to know is about the sound. Are 13"'s just as versatile?

3.) How much do custom order Reference/Pure snares usually cost?

Thanks in advance

1: The difference between the 2 lines is the thickness of the shells and hoops/lugs. If you want more attack/less resonance get the Reference snare. If you want more resonance and tone, get a Ref Pure. Personally, I prefer the Ref Pure.

2. I bought a 13" 20 ply snare with Reference ply configuration when ordering my Masterworks drums. I thought it'd make a nice higher pitched side snare. It's a cool drum but I'd never want it as a main snare. It's tuning range is not as wide as my larger, thinner snares. But more importantly, as a life long 14" snare user, it just feels WEIRD to play. The sticks just don't hit in the right place when doing rim shots, for example. Maybe if I played it more consistently I'd come to like it more but I just don't feel comfortable playing it now.

3. I can't help you with this, other than to say that I ordered my drums through Drums On Sale, who offered me the best price by a fair amount over everyone else I contacted. If I were to order more custom drums I'd go through them again.

[Andy H]

I'd stick with a 14" snare if I am buying an expensive custom drum. While the 13" size is cool and fun, there's a reason why 14" is the industry standard. It just "feels" right.

No disrespect towards you 13" players. I have a 7 x 13 Pearl snare that I will never part with.

[MusicMan]

So after ordering my 16x14 Reference floor tom, I'm toying with the idea of ordering a Reference snare.

I'm thinking of going a more neutral color scheme for the snare (instead of Inca Gold burst) so that it could work with other kits as well.

I'm thinking about Matte Black Mist. Not too sure between Chrome and Nickel.

A few questions that you may be able to provide some valuable information on:

1.) What is the primary difference in sound between the Reference and Reference Pure snares? I understand that the Reference snares are a lot thicker at 20 plies.

2.) I've gone a 14" snare as it seems to be the industry standard. But I've started to see more 13" snares. I like the idea of having a slightly smaller snare as I think it might fit a little better physically, but what I really want to know is about the sound. Are 13"'s just as versatile?

3.) How much do custom order Reference/Pure snares usually cost?

Thanks in advance

1. Reference will be louder, higher pitched, and heavier to carry. Reference Pure will be more resonant, lower pitched, and easier to carry. Or course, the badges and hardware will be different too.

2. I have both 14" and 13" snare drums and they are versatile. If it's more ergonomic for you to use a 13" snare then I would recommend it (preferably, Reference Pure). However, there is much less demand for 13" snare drums and thus it might be harder to sell or trade later (if necessary).

3. You shouldn't have to pay any more than 50% of the Pearl list prices. Thus, if the snare drum is $1,000 list, you should be able to get it for $500. It's better to do custom orders with a reputable small drum shop. Don't do a special order through a big box place Sweetwater or Musicians Friend.

Hope this helps

[zildjian_chris]

Thanks for the replies everyone! MusicMan, do you happen to have a pic of your 13" Matte Black Mist MW snare?