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Premier Modern classic: sturdier metal for your hard-earned brass

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2. Ludwig Supraphonic 400/402
£460 / £495

The daddy of them all, the 14"x5" 400 was the most recorded snare drum of the 1950s to 1970s, while the 6½" 402 was all John Bonham ever needed. Chrome over Ludalloy (aluminium), centre bead and simple throw-off conspire to produce the most reliable snare ever. Note the light aluminium, rather than steel, shell.

3. Pearl Sensitone Elite (beaded brass 14"x5")
£302

Based on the Ludwig Supraphonic, Pearl's everyday pro snare range is typically well made with a generous spec, including substantial 1.5 mm beaded brass shell and SuperHoop IIs, stainless steel tension rods and brass lug inserts. Available in steel, bronze and aluminium, this brass model is the natural all-rounder.
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4. Premier Modern Classic (hammered brass)
£352

Visually striking in black-chromed, hand hammered brass with vintage-style tube lugs - the only kind that would fi t, really. As with cymbals, hammering of the alloy makes the sound more complex, breaks up the sound waves inside and results in a more dense, colourful timbre. The Nickel Drumworks strainer is very smooth.

5. Pork Pie Big Black Patina (14"x 6 ½")
£399

Something a bit different, with earthy patina'ed brass, polished centre bead and chrome fittings. A pretty funky looking drum. Underneath this is a timeless beaded brass, 10 double-ended tube lug design. The (un-patina'ed) normal Big Black is a dead ringer for Ludwig's Black Beauty, but will cost you far less.

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