Product: Pearl Reference Steel Snare
Price Paid: USD 389
Submitted
03/16/2008
at
03:15pm
by
syntubs
Email: sy<at>synthetictubs dot com
Features
:
10
The shell type is solid cast steel, varying between 3mm and 5mm where the internal rings are. The throw off is an amazing two-piece unit. The tensioner is located on the opposite side of the snare from the throw off. This throw off is a rare type: it locks in place with a button release. The lugs are 10 per side, and are set to swivel so they angle with the tension rods. The hoops are die-cast steel as well. Only in chrome finish. The drum is outfitted with a remo coated ambassador and hazy ambassador snare side. The snare wires are standard 20-strand pearl wires. This drum is widely available for a street price of $389.
Sound Quality
:
10
This snare has a dry tone, thanks to the internal rings that dampen off much of the spurious overtones. It is not quite as fat sounding as some flanged steel shells, but it is incredibly focused and powerful. It is definitely in the upper echelon of power snares, as it will generate an ear-splitting rim shot. I use mine without additional muffling, though a studio ring will give it a more staccato attack. This snare will cut through the mix, and you really feel the power. It is exceptionally articulate through a wide dynamic range.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I recommend tightscrews from Carl Scott percussion. These lugs do tend to back down after a few sessions. This is as strong as snares get. It's pretty hefty, and would crush toes if it fell over.
Overall Rating
:
10
What can you say, there is no perfect snare. This one is not quite as fat as other metal snares, and tightscrews would alleviate the tension rod issue. I do highly recommend it, as it comes in over $100 less than the Ocheltree Carbon steel snare. Pearl has a winner here, a superb high-end snare for all occasions. I like the two-piece throwoff, and the locking strainer.
