AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 14" Brass Snare Drums 2026
The top pick is Pearl STH1465BR Sensitone Heritage Alloy Black/Brass 14x6.5" Snare… ($687). Mapex BPNBR4551CN Black Panther Metallion 14x5.5" Brass Snare Drum gives you the most for the money at $512. Ludwig LB416BT 14"x5" Black Beauty leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 47 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
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All 14" Brass Snare DrumsTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Pearl STH1465BR Sensitone Heritage Alloy Black / Brass 14x6.5" Snare…
14"x6,5" Sensitone Brass · Pearl
17 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This is a 14 by 6.5 inch brass snare from Pearl's Sensitone Heritage Alloy Series. It has a 1 mm brass shell with a bead, a Superhoop II hoop, CL-Bridge lugs, and Remo Ambassador heads already fitted. If you want a brass snare with a ready-to-play set of parts in a black nickel finish, it is worth a look, though it comes at a high-end price.
Pros
- Brass shell, 1 mm thick, with a bead for a classic brass build
- Superhoop II 10-hole tension hoop gives you a solid hoop setup
- CL-Bridge lugs and an SR017 snare strainer come built in
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$687 now$687€615 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Tama PBR146 Starphonic Series 6x14" Brass Snare Drum
PBR146 Starphonic Brass · Tama
13 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size14"
You get a 14 by 6 inch brass snare with a 1.2 mm shell and a 1.5 mm bearing edge. It has grooved hoops, a Line Drive strainer, and super sensitive Hi-Carbon snare wires, so it suits you if you want a snare with a brass shell and a sharp, assertive sound.
Pros
- Brass shell gives this snare a brass base material
- Shell thickness of 1.2 mm with a 1.5 mm bearing edge
- Pleated grooved hoops, Line Drive strainer and ratchet snare tension
Cons
- Its 6-inch depth puts it at the deeper end of snare sizes
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$624 now$624€559 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mapex BPNBR465HCN Black Panther Persuader 14x6.5" Hammered Brass…
14"x6,5" Persuader Snare · Mapex
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
The Mapex Persuader is a fantastic option for drummers wanting a vintage-inspired brass snare without the premium price tag. The hammered shell gives it a unique character that cuts through the mix, and the Cylinder Drive strainer is a nice touch. It's a great all-around snare for rock, pop, and even some funk, especially for gigging musicians who need something reliable and responsive.
Pros
- Hammered brass shell delivers a distinct, dry, and cutting tone.
- Cylinder Drive snare lift-off provides excellent sensitivity and tuning range.
- SONIClear bearing edges offer smooth stick response and consistent tone.
Cons
- Hammered finish can be a bit rough for some players’ preferences.
- Antique Nickel plating, while attractive, requires more diligent cleaning.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$646 now$646€579 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha RBS1455 Recording Custom 14x5.5" Birch Snare Drum
14"x5.5" Recording Custom BR · Yamaha
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This is a 14 by 5.5 inch brass snare with a 1.2 mm brass shell and a 45° bearing edge. It comes with 20 high carbon steel snare wires, a Yamaha Q type strainer, and Remo Ambassador Coated and Reso heads. It suits you if you want a brass snare with a clear hairline finish and a ready-to-play setup.
Pros
- Shell is made of 1.2 mm brass, giving this snare a metal shell.
- The bearing edge is 45° and the snare uses 2.3 mm Dyna hoops.
- Snare wires are 20 spirals of high carbon steel.
Cons
- Hairline clear finish leaves the brass exposed, so it will show handling marks over time.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$658 now$658€589 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Mapex BPNBR4551CN Black Panther Metallion 14x5.5" Brass Snare Drum
14"x5,5" Metallion Snare · Mapex
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This Mapex snare is a 14 by 5.5 inch brass drum from the Black Panther Series. Its 1.2 mm brass shell is described as having a warm, dense character with some sensitive bite, so it may suit you if you want a brass snare with that kind of sound. It comes with a Cylinder Drive strainer and a SONIClear bearing edge.
Pros
- 1.2 mm thick brass shell gives this drum its main character
- Cylinder Drive snare strainer controls the snare wires
- SONIClear bearing edge is built into the shell
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$512 now$512€459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha RAS-1465 Recording Custom 6.5x14" Aluminum Snare Drum
14"x6.5" Recording Custom BR · Yamaha
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This is a 14 by 6.5 inch brass snare drum from Yamaha's Recording Custom line. It has a thin 1.2 mm brass shell, 2.3 mm Dyna Hoops, and 25 strands of high-carbon steel snare wires. It suits you if you want a metal snare with a Hairline Clear finish and a Remo Ambassador Coated batter head on top.
Pros
- Brass shell gives this snare a metal shell material as its base
- Thin 1.2 mm brass shell with a 45º bearing edge
- 2.3 mm Dyna Hoops frame the drum and hold its tension
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$668 now$668€598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Pearl FTBR1450 Free-Floating 14x5" Brass Snare Drum (4th Gen) 2014…
14"x5" Free Floating Brass · Pearl
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This is a 14 by 5 inch snare with a 1 mm brass shell and chrome hardware. Its Free Floating design uses FT-50 lugs and has no holes drilled for the hardware, so the shell is free to ring. It suits you if you want a metal snare with an open shell and die cast hoops.
Pros
- Brass shell gives this snare its metal body material
- The 1 mm brass shell is a thick, metal build
- FT-50 Free Floating lugs let the shell vibrate unhindered
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,064 now$1,064€953 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
If you want a 14 inch brass snare with a classic look, this one is worth a look. It has seamless black anodized brass shells, Supra-Phonic P88AC throw-offs and Imperial lugs. It suits drummers who want a 14 by 6.5 snare built around the Black Beauty name.
Pros
- Seamless black anodized brass shells give this snare a sturdy, one-piece build
- Supra-Phonic P88AC snare throw-offs are fitted for the snare wires
- Imperial lugs are fitted to the 14 inch by 6.5 inch shell
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,316 now$1,316€1,179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
This is a 14 by 5 inch snare drum from Ludwig's Black Beauty series. It has a seamless drawn brass shell, cast hoops, and a P88AC / P35P strainer, with a black nickel-plated finish. It suits you if you want a brass snare with a sturdy build and a classic black look.
Pros
- Seamless drawn brass shell construction
- Brass shell hardware included with the drum
- Cast hoops for rim support
64AudioFu
Index↓ 3.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,561 · Aug 17$1,506 now$1,506€1,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ludwig LB402BN Super Ludwig Reissue 6.5x14" Chrome Over Brass Snare…
14"x6,5" Super Brass Snare · Ludwig
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
You get a 14 inch by 6.5 inch brass snare from Ludwig's Super series. It has a brass shell, nickel plated hardware, Imperial lugs, triple-flanged hoops, and a P88AC strainer. It suits you if you want a brass snare drum in a 14 inch size with a classic metal shell.
Pros
- Brass shell gives this snare a brass drum body.
- Nickel plated hardware gives the metal parts a nickel finish.
- Imperial lugs are used to tension the drumhead on this snare.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,226 now$1,226€1,098 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 47 14" brass snare drums
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Tama Star Reserve Hand Hammered Brass 14x5.5" Snare Drum14"x5,5" Star Reserve Brass · Tama54Stable$1,171€1,049$1,171€1,049Check ↗
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DW PDP 14"x08" Concept BrassDW53↓ 9.6%$463€415$463€415Check ↗
- 13
Ludwig 14"x08" Universal Brass ChromeLudwig52Stable$479€429$479€429Check ↗
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Ludwig 14"x5,5" Universal Brass ChromLudwig52Stable$479€429$479€429Check ↗
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Ludwig 14"x6,5" Universal Brass ChromLudwig52Stable$490€439$490€439Check ↗
- 16
Ludwig 14"x6,5" Universal Brass SnareLudwig52Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 17
Ludwig 14"x5,5" Universal Brass SnareLudwig52Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 18
Ludwig 14"x08" Universal Brass SnareLudwig52Stable$635€569$635€569Check ↗
- 19
Ludwig LB400B Supra Phonic SnareLudwig52Stable$1,033€925$1,033€925Check ↗
- 20
Ludwig 14"x05" Raw Brass PhonicLudwig52Stable$1,037€929$1,037€929Check ↗
- 21
Ludwig 14"x6,5" Acro Brass SnareLudwig52Stable$1,114€998$1,114€998Check ↗
- 22
Ludwig 14"x6,5" Raw Brass PhonicLudwig52Stable$1,114€998$1,114€998Check ↗
- 23
Ludwig LB402B Supra Phonic SnareLudwig52Stable$1,226€1,098$1,226€1,098Check ↗
- 24
Ludwig 14"x05" Super Ludwig COB SnareLudwig52Stable$1,283€1,149$1,283€1,149Check ↗
- 25
Pearl 14"x5,5" Primal Col. Brass SDPearl50Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
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Pearl 14"x6,5" Primal Col. Brass SDPearl50Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
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Pearl 14"x08" Primal Col. Brass SDPearl50Stable$479€429$479€429Check ↗
- 28
Pearl 14"x05" Sensitone BrassPearl50Stable$613€549$613€549Check ↗
- 29
Pearl 14"x05" Sensitone DuoluxePearl50Stable$790€708$790€708Check ↗
- 30
Pearl 14"x6,5" Sensitone DuoluxePearl50Stable$860€770$860€770Check ↗
- 31
Pearl 14"x06" Matt Halpern SignaturePearl50Stable$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 32
DW 14"x5,5" Brass SnareDW50↓ 3.5%$1,506€1,349$1,506€1,349Check ↗
- 33
Pearl 14"x05" Reference One BrassPearl50Stable$1,607€1,439$1,607€1,439Check ↗
- 34
Pearl 14"x6,5" Reference One BrassPearl50Stable$1,729€1,549$1,729€1,549Check ↗
- 35
DW PDP 14"x6,5" Concept BrassDW48Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 36
DW 14"x6,5" Design Workhorse SDDW48Stable$556€498$556€498Check ↗
- 37
Gretsch Drums 14"x5" Hammered Brass SnareGretsch Drums48Stable$568€509$568€509Check ↗
- 38
DW 14"x6,5" Brass SnareDW48Stable$1,226€1,098$1,226€1,098Check ↗
- 39
DW 14"x5,5" Design Workhorse SDDW47↑ 3.2%$540€484$540€484Check ↗
- 40
Tama LBR1465 Sound Lab SnareTama47Stable$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 41
Gretsch Drums 14"x6,5" USA Bell Brass SnareGretsch Drums47↑ 3.2%$1,841€1,649$1,841€1,649Check ↗
- 42
Dialtune 14"x6,5" Black Nickel Brass SDDialtune46↓ 3.6%$892€799$892€799Check ↗
- 43
Gretsch Drums 14"x6,5" Snare Chrome o. BrassGretsch Drums46↑ 3.5%$1,004€899$1,004€899Check ↗
- 44
Gretsch Drums 14"x05" Snare Chrome o. BrassGretsch Drums45↑ 7.2%$993€889$993€889Check ↗
- 45
Gretsch Drums 14"x05" Bell Brass SnareGretsch Drums45↑ 7.1%$1,673€1,498$1,673€1,498Check ↗
- 46
Millenium 14"x5,5" Power Brass SnareMillenium44Stable$221€198$221€198Check ↗
- 47
DS Drum 14"x6" Seamless Brass SnareDS Drum44Stable$948€849$948€849Check ↗
14" Brass Snare Drums by the numbers
Measured across all 55 models we track, not a sample.
Median $948 — half of all 14" brass snare drums here cost less.
median of 55 models · 14"–14"
How to choose the best 14" brass snare drums
Brass Alloy
This isn't just 'brass'; it's a blend. Common alloys are bronze (richer, warmer sustain), gold brass (a bit more focused, brighter), and standard brass (versatile, can lean either way). The alloy directly impacts the tone - bronze will give you that warm, singing quality, while gold brass can be a bit more cutting. Don't expect a gold brass snare to sound like a bronze one.
Shell Thickness
Thicker shells (around 1.2mm+) tend to be more resonant, with longer sustain and a more defined pitch. Thinner shells (around 1.0mm) are more responsive, offering a quicker, drier action and a more controlled sound - great for funk or tighter genres. There's a trade-off; a thick shell can be a little less sensitive to ghost notes.
Bearing Edge
This is HUGE. A sharper, more defined bearing edge (often 11.5 degrees or less) will create a more focused, higher-pitched crack. A rounded bearing edge (closer to 30 degrees) will soften the attack and add warmth. It's a key factor in how the drum 'projects'.
Rim Type
Die-cast rims are the standard for a reason - they're stiff, transfer vibrations well, and contribute to the snare's overall tone. Wood hoops mellow the sound, adding warmth and a slightly more vintage feel, but they can dampen the overall projection. Triple-flanged rims offer maximum sensitivity and a distinct, higher-pitched tone.
Lugs & Hardware
While often overlooked, the quality of the lugs and hardware impacts sustain and overall resonance. Cheap lugs can dampen the shell, robbing the drum of its potential. Look for well-machined lugs with felt washers - they make a difference, especially if you're chasing a long, singing sustain.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk brass snares. You're looking for that 'crack' that cuts through a loud band, or maybe a warm, controlled backbeat for studio work. A 14" brass snare is a serious choice - it's the sweet spot for versatility, giving you some low-end thump without getting swallowed by a wall of guitars or losing articulation. But not all brass is created equal; let's break down what to look for so you don't end up with something that sounds like a tin can.
A 14" brass snare is an investment. Don't fall for the 'shiny' factor - focus on the bearing edge and shell thickness first. Cheaper snares often cut corners on the brass alloy or use poorly machined lugs, which will noticeably impact the tone.
It's worth spending a little more for a snare that feels responsive and delivers the sound you're after, whether that's a crisp crack or a warm, controlled backbeat.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 55 14" brass snare drums from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between bronze and gold brass?
Bronze brass generally has a warmer, richer tone with longer sustain, good for jazz or vintage sounds. Gold brass tends to be brighter and more focused, cutting through a mix better for rock or pop.
Are thicker shells always better?
Not necessarily. Thicker shells offer more resonance, but thinner shells are more responsive and controlled. It depends on your playing style and the genre you play.
Can I change the bearing edge myself?
It's possible, but it's a precision job. You'll need specialized tools and a good understanding of drum acoustics. Best left to a professional if you're not experienced.
What's the deal with die-cast vs. wood rims?
Die-cast rims offer more projection and a brighter tone. Wood rims soften the attack and add warmth, but can reduce the drum's overall volume.
I'm on a budget - what should I look for?
Focus on the bearing edge and try to find a snare with decent lugs. Don't get hung up on the brass alloy - you can always tweak the sound later with different heads.
