Gretsch releases Ash Soan Signature Snare Drum

Gretsch has unveiled a brand new signature snare for none other than UK session drummer, Ash Soan.

• Ash Soan on the story behind his new Gretsch signature snare, recording drums, and the importance of social media

• Read the full review of the Gretsch Ash Soan Signature Snare Drum here

Ash, who you voted as the Best Session Drummer of 2021 in our end-of-year polls, has been using a prototype of the snare on recordings from his Windmill Studio with the likes of Julian Lennon, Cory Wong & Ariel Posen, Hans Zimmer, Jeff Lorber and more, with the drum creating the more 'cranked' part of his distinctive drum sounds.

The Ash soan Signature Snare features a 12"x7", 9-ply purpleheart shell as well as double-45-degree bearing edges, and is fitted with 4mm die-cast hoops, and Gretsch Lightning throw-off.

Inside the shell, Gretsch has applied its trademark silver sealer, along with an ID badge. Each badge confirms the year of the drum's production and is hand-signed by Ash Soan.

Talking about the drum with Gretsch, Soan says, “For me a signature snare drum must encapsulate my sound and nothing does this better than the 7x12” Purpleheart drum. It’s unique tone, long sustain, versatility and character makes recording a joy. Producers continually request the Purpleheart snare sound for their tracks.”

The Gretsch Ash Soan Signature Snare Drum is available to order now, priced £947.

Stuart has been working for guitar publications since 2008, beginning his career as Reviews Editor for Total Guitar before becoming Editor for six years. During this time, he and the team brought the magazine into the modern age with digital editions, a Youtube channel and the Apple chart-bothering Total Guitar Podcast. Stuart has also served as a freelance writer for Guitar World, Guitarist and MusicRadar reviewing hundreds of products spanning everything from acoustic guitars to valve amps, modelers and plugins. When not spouting his opinions on the best new gear, Stuart has been reminded on many occasions that the 'never meet your heroes' rule is entirely wrong, clocking-up interviews with the likes of Eddie Van Halen, Foo Fighters, Green Day and many, many more.