Best Gretsch Drums 14" Wooden Snare Drums 2026
Alright, let's talk Gretsch 14" wooden snares. You're after something with character, something that's gonna cut through a busy mix or lay down a subtle groove in a jazz setting - and Gretsch, historically, delivers that. They've got a lineage steeped in quality and a signature warmth that's instantly recognizable. But not all Gretsch snares are created equal, so let's break down what makes these drums special and what you should be looking for.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 14" wooden snare drums in 2026 are Gretsch Drums 14"x5,5" Mike Johnston Snare (top pick), Gretsch Drums 14"x6,5" Snare Brooklyn Gold for tighter budgets, and Gretsch Drums 14"X05" Broadkaster SD Natural for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $295–$1,867, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
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Gretsch Drums 14"x5,5" Mike Johnston Snare
Jazz
Recording
Natural Tone
Key Feature:
This Mike Johnston signature snare is a real winner for drummers seeking a refined, modern sound. The maple/poplar blend provides a surprisingly warm and articulate voice, while the integrated damper allows for a lot of tonal control. It's a premium-priced snare that’s perfect for rock, pop, and studio work where clarity and sensitivity are key.
PROS
- • Maple/poplar shell blend delivers a warm, focused, and articulate tone.
- • Mike Johnston’s signature voicing provides exceptional sensitivity and responsiveness.
- • Gretsch’s in302 steel hoops enhance projection and ringing sustain.
- • Integrated damper allows for quick tonal adjustments and versatile sound shaping.
CONS
- • Satin black metallic finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • The 42-spiral snare wires may be a bit too bright for some players’ preferences.
- • Shell construction limits versatility; excels in modern and rock genres.
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4.0/5
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Art. 498372
$824
#2
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3.3/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"x6,5" Snare Brooklyn Gold
Rock
Recording
Professional
Key Feature:
The Brooklyn Gold snare delivers that classic Gretsch warmth and sensitivity, perfect for players seeking a versatile, vintage-inspired sound without the vintage price tag. The nitron finish adds a modern touch, and the overall build quality is exceptional. It's a fantastic choice for gigging musicians and studio players across a range of genres, from jazz to rock.
PROS
- • Maple/poplar shell delivers a warm, resonant, and controlled tone.
- • Nitron finish enhances projection and durability, a real Gretsch innovation.
- • 30° bearing edge provides excellent stick definition and responsiveness.
- • Brooklyn Round Badge adds a touch of classic Gretsch style and prestige.
CONS
- • Gold sparkle finish can be a fingerprint magnet, requiring frequent cleaning.
- • Permatone heads, while good, might be swapped for a more tailored sound.
- • The shell thickness, while offering warmth, might lack ultimate rimshot crack.
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3.3/5
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Art. 454632
$813
#3
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3.3/5
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6/10
Gretsch Drums 14"X05" Broadkaster SD Natural
Natural Tone
Recording
Jazz
Key Feature:
The Broadkaster SD Natural is a beautifully crafted snare that nails that vintage Gretsch vibe. It's a serious instrument – warm, responsive, and built to last. Ideal for players seeking a refined, classic snare sound for jazz, blues, or classic rock recording and live performance.
PROS
- • Maple/poplar shell delivers warm, focused, and articulate tones.
- • 30° bearing edge enhances sensitivity and responsiveness across the head.
- • Steel hoops provide durability and a crisp, defined rimshot sound.
- • Lightning strainer offers smooth, reliable, and quiet adjustment.
CONS
- • Natural finish shows every mark and scratch, demanding careful handling.
- • Broadkaster series, while versatile, leans towards classic styles, limiting extreme genres.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
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3.3/5
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6/10
Art. 617343
$1,098
#4
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3.2/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"X5.5" Broadkaster SD NT.
Blues
Jazz
Rock
Key Feature:
This Broadkaster is a really sweet snare – the maple/poplar combo gives it a warm, vintage-inspired sound with a surprising amount of projection. It's perfect for players seeking a refined, articulate snare for jazz, classic rock, or studio work, where a controlled and focused sound is key. It’s a beautifully made drum with a quality feel.
PROS
- • The 3-ply maple/poplar shell delivers a warm, focused, and surprisingly resonant tone.
- • The 30° bearing edge enhances stick definition and allows for versatile tuning options.
- • Gretsch’s Lightning strainer provides smooth, reliable, and virtually silent operation.
- • The natural matte finish highlights the wood grain and offers a refined aesthetic appeal.
CONS
- • The 5.5” depth limits low-end response; less ideal for heavier genres.
- • The natural finish, while beautiful, requires careful maintenance to prevent scratches.
- • The Broadkaster series sits at a premium-priced point, a significant investment.
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3.2/5
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Art. 617344
$1,098
#5
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3.2/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"x5,5" Snare Brooklyn Cream
Recording
Jazz
Professional
Key Feature:
The Brooklyn series snare really nails that classic Gretsch vibe – it’s got warmth, sensitivity, and a pleasing crack. The Nitro finish really makes the shell sing. This is a fantastic option for players seeking a refined, versatile snare for everything from jazz to rock, but particularly shines when you need that vintage tone without the vintage price tag.
PROS
- • Nitro finish enhances shell resonance and provides a vibrant, responsive feel.
- • Maple/poplar construction delivers a warm, focused tone with excellent projection.
- • 30° bearing edge optimizes head contact for a broad range of tuning possibilities.
- • Permatone heads offer a controlled, musical response ideal for various genres.
CONS
- • Cream oyster finish can be susceptible to stick marks and blemishes.
- • The 5.5 in depth might limit low-end thump for some players’ preferences.
- • Brooklyn series represents a premium-priced investment for many drummers.
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3.2/5
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4/10
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7/10
Art. 485247
$824
#6
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3.1/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"x6,5" USA Custom Snare Drum
Recording
Jazz
Rock
Key Feature:
This USA Custom snare is a real tone monster. The maple/gum blend offers a beautiful balance of warmth and crack – it’s incredibly responsive and projects really well. Ideal for players seeking a premium, vintage-inspired sound for a wide range of genres, from jazz to rock.
PROS
- • 6-ply maple/gum shell delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Die-cast hoops enhance projection and tuning stability compared to standard hoops.
- • Silver Sealer interior reduces unwanted shell resonance for a controlled sound.
- • 30° bearing edge promotes complex overtones and responsiveness for versatile playing.
CONS
- • The 6.72mm shell thickness might be a bit heavy for some players.
- • The 'Silver Sealer' finish, while attractive, can be prone to chipping with heavy use.
- • Premium-priced, making it less accessible for beginner or budget-conscious drummers.
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3.1/5
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6/10
Art. 595267
$1,128
#7
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3.1/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"x5,5" USA Custom Snare Drum
Professional
Jazz
Natural Tone
Key Feature:
This USA Custom snare is a serious contender for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone with modern build quality. The maple gum shell provides a warm, dry sound with a surprising amount of projection, making it ideal for everything from jazz and blues to classic rock and studio work. It’s a premium snare, but the tone and craftsmanship justify the investment.
PROS
- • Exceptional maple gum shell delivers warm, focused, and resonant tones.
- • Die-cast hoops offer increased durability and precise tuning response.
- • Silver Sealer interior minimizes unwanted overtones for a cleaner sound.
- • 30-degree bearing edge facilitates a wide range of tonal possibilities.
CONS
- • The 6.72mm shell can be a bit heavy for extended gigs or younger players.
- • The 'Silver Sealer' can be susceptible to chipping with aggressive playing.
- • The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for budget-conscious drummers.
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3.1/5
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Art. 595264
$1,088
#8
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3.1/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"x6.5" Full Range Walnut SD
Professional
Blues
Natural Tone
Key Feature:
This Gretsch Full Range Walnut snare is a real gem. The walnut shell gives it a beautiful, warm tone with a surprising amount of cut—it's versatile enough for jazz, blues, and even some lighter rock. If you're looking for a refined, vintage-inspired snare without the vintage price tag, this is a solid choice.
PROS
- • Walnut shell delivers warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Reinforcement rings enhance stability and sustain at higher volumes.
- • Triple-flanged hoops offer improved resonance and tuning stability.
- • Brass strainer provides smooth, reliable snare wire adjustment.
CONS
- • Walnut's tonal character might be too mellow for some modern genres.
- • The natural matte finish shows fingerprints and handling marks easily.
- • Reinforcement rings can slightly dampen the shell's natural resonance.
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3.1/5
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8/10
Art. 609675
$548
#9
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Gretsch Drums 14"x7" 140th Anniversary Snare
Jazz
Recording
Professional
Key Feature:
This 140th Anniversary Gretsch snare is a real beauty, sonically and visually. The figured ash shell gives it a warm, woody tone with plenty of character, and the nickel hardware just screams vintage class. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a premium-priced, limited-edition snare for studio or stage, especially those drawn to classic jazz, blues, and roots music.
PROS
- • Figured Ash outer layer delivers a uniquely resonant, warm tone.
- • Nickel hardware exudes vintage aesthetics and provides reliable durability.
- • 16 lugs offer precise tuning control and a focused, articulate response.
- • Limited edition status adds collector's value and exclusivity.
CONS
- • The high-gloss lacquer requires careful maintenance to prevent stick marks.
- • Figured Ash can be prone to slight cracking with humidity changes.
- • Limited run makes acquiring one potentially challenging.
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3.0/5
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4/10
Art. 565119
$1,868
#10
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3.0/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"x6.5" Full Range Maple SD
Natural Tone
Rock
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Gretsch Full Range Maple snare is a seriously versatile workhorse. The maple shell provides a warm, controlled sound that sits beautifully in a mix – perfect for jazz, funk, and vintage-inspired rock. It's a solid choice for drummers wanting a refined, professional-grade snare without the ultra-premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple shell delivers warm, resonant tone with excellent projection.
- • Reinforcement rings enhance shell stability and focused low-end response.
- • Triple-flanged hoops improve head sustain and tuning stability.
- • Brass receiver nuts provide smooth, reliable tension adjustment and a premium feel.
CONS
- • Natural matte finish might require more frequent cleaning and care.
- • Full range design leans towards a warmer sound, less suited for aggressive metal.
- • While well-built, maple shells can be susceptible to humidity changes.
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3.0/5
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4/10
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8/10
Art. 609677
$548
#11
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2.9/5
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9/10
Gretsch Drums 14"x08" Full Range Hybrid SD
Natural Tone
Professional
Recording
Key Feature:
This Gretsch Hybrid SD is a seriously well-built snare. The mahogany/maple blend gives it a warm, vintage vibe with a surprising amount of crack. It’s a great all-around choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable, responsive snare – especially those playing jazz, blues, or classic rock.
PROS
- • The mahogany/maple hybrid shell delivers a warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Triple-flange hoops enhance sensitivity and provide a crisp, articulate rimshot response.
- • Brass receiver nuts on the lugs ensure tuning stability and a premium feel.
- • The 20-strand snare wires offer a controlled, musical sizzle without excessive overtones.
CONS
- • The natural, high-gloss finish might require extra care to avoid stick marks and fingerprints.
- • The 16-ply construction makes it noticeably heavier than single-ply snares.
- • While versatile, its tonal character leans towards warmer genres; bright, aggressive sounds are less attainable.
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2.9/5
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9/10
Art. 609674
$351
#12
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2.9/5
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9/10
Gretsch Drums 14"x6.5" Full Range Hybrid SD
Professional
Blues
Recording
Key Feature:
This Gretsch Hybrid SD is a real workhorse snare—the mahogany warmth paired with maple’s snap gives you a great foundation for a ton of styles. It's a fantastic option for gigging drummers needing a reliable, versatile, and well-built snare without the premium price tag, and it’ll record nicely too.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Maple hybrid shell delivers warm, focused, and versatile tones.
- • Triple-flanged hoops enhance resonance and projection significantly.
- • Brass receiver nuts contribute to tuning stability and a richer sound.
- • Natural finish highlights the wood grain and allows for easy customization.
CONS
- • The 16-ply construction can feel slightly dense and less responsive for ultra-sensitive players.
- • Hybrid construction might not offer the extreme tonal character of all-mahogany or maple snares.
- • The included Remo heads are decent, but upgrading would unlock even more sonic potential.
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9/10
Art. 609673
$296
#13
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2.9/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"x5" Full Range Snare Maple
Natural Tone
Rock
Professional
Key Feature:
This Gretsch Silver Series maple snare is a fantastic all-around option. It’s got a really nice, warm crack that sits well in a mix, and the cast hoops give you a crisp rim sound. Perfect for gigging musicians wanting a quality, versatile snare without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • 10-ply maple shell delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Cast hoops offer improved durability and a more defined rimshot.
- • Silver Series hardware provides solid, reliable functionality and a classic look.
- • Maple construction provides a natural warmth and responsiveness ideal for various genres.
CONS
- • Natural maple finish can be susceptible to scratches and wear.
- • The 8mm shell thickness might be too thin for drummers needing extreme projection.
- • Lacks some of the premium appointments found on Gretsch’s higher-end snare lines.
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2.9/5
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1/10
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3/10
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8/10
Art. 348771
$505
#14
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2.9/5
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4/10
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Gretsch Drums 14"X5,5" Renown Maple STB
Rock
Professional
Blues
Key Feature:
The Renown Maple STB is a fantastic snare for drummers seeking a classic Gretsch sound without the premium price tag. Its maple construction provides a warm, focused tone perfect for jazz, blues, and vintage-inspired rock. It's a great choice for gigging musicians and studio players who value quality and versatility.
PROS
- • Maple shell delivers warm, resonant, and controlled tones.
- • STB finish adds a touch of vintage aesthetic appeal.
- • 30° bearing edge facilitates a broad range of tuning options.
- • Gretsch’s inSilver Sealer coating enhances shell resonance.
CONS
- • STB finish can be prone to minor cosmetic imperfections.
- • Lacquered finish requires careful maintenance to avoid stickiness.
- • Limited versatility; excels in studio or smaller gig settings.
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2.9/5
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4/10
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8/10
Art. 457174
$384
#15
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2.9/5
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Gretsch Drums 14"X6,5" Renown Maple PW
Blues
Natural Tone
Recording
Key Feature:
The Renown Maple PW is a fantastic all-around snare – a real sweet spot for players wanting that classic Gretsch sound without the premium price tag. It’s versatile enough for everything from jazz and studio work to rock and pop, offering a pleasing warmth and responsiveness that's immediately inspiring. If you’re looking for a high-quality maple snare that delivers serious performance, this is a great choice.
PROS
- • Maple shell delivers warm, resonant tones with controlled overtones.
- • Gretsch's 302 hoops offer a crisp, responsive feel and projection.
- • 7-ply construction provides durability and a balanced fundamental tone.
- • Piano White finish is visually striking and highlights the maple grain.
CONS
- • The silver sealer coating might dampen the shell's natural resonance slightly.
- • The included Remo head is decent, but an upgrade will unlock its full potential.
- • Lacquered finish can be a fingerprint magnet and requires careful maintenance.
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2.9/5
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1/10
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4/10
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8/10
Art. 596732
$395
How to Choose the Best 14" Wooden Snare Drums
1
Shell Construction
Gretsch's 30-degree bearing edges are a huge deal. They focus the vibration, giving you more 'crack' and sustain without getting muddy. It's a subtle difference, but it's what separates a decent snare from one that really sings.
2
Wood Selection
Maple is classic Gretsch, offering that warm, resonant low-end and a controlled, almost vocal quality. Birch brings more high-frequency response and a tighter, more focused sound - useful for cutting through a dense mix. It's about the tonal balance you need.
3
Hardware & Finish
Gretsch's hardware is generally solid, but the real difference comes down to the finish. A satin finish tends to resonate more freely than a high-gloss finish, which can dampen the overtones. Chrome lugs are standard, but the quality of the tension rods and throw-off can affect tuning stability.
4
Tuning Range & Sensitivity
A good Gretsch snare responds well to subtle tuning changes. You should be able to dial in a crisp backbeat or a buttery low-end thump with minimal adjustments. It's about the dynamic range and responsiveness.
5
Vintage vs. New
Vintage Gretsch snares are legendary for a reason - years of sonic aging. However, newer models are built to very similar specs and often offer a more consistent playing experience and a lower price point. The 'vintage' mojo is real, but it comes at a premium.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the hype. Listen to recordings and, ideally, play the snare yourself. Gretsch snares respond incredibly well to head choice - a coated head will mellow the tone, while a thinner batter head will enhance the crack. Be wary of overly bright, ice-picky top end - that's usually a sign of a poorly chosen head or a shell that's too thin. Pay attention to the lugs - sometimes they can be a little finicky with tuning stability.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 14" wooden snare drums from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are if you value that signature warmth and responsiveness. They aren't the cheapest, but they offer a unique tonal character that's hard to replicate. It's a balance between price and performance.
The Renown is a full drum kit line, while Broadkaster is their premium snare line. Broadkasters generally use higher-grade wood, more refined construction, and better hardware, resulting in a more refined and expensive instrument.
You can get close, but it's tough to perfectly replicate that Gretsch warmth. Other brands offer similar characteristics, but the 30-degree bearing edge and the specific wood combinations are key to the Gretsch sound.
Buzzing is often caused by a poorly fitted head, loose lugs, or sympathetic vibrations. Try different head tensions, check the lug torque, and consider using internal dampening if the buzz is too persistent.
It depends on the sound you're after. A lighter, more articulate stick like a Vic Firth Reverb or ProMark 700X is great for jazz and subtle grooves. For rock and heavier styles, a thicker stick with more weight, like a Vic Firth 5A or ProMark 5B, will give you more power and attack.
