Dw Black Nickel Over Brass Vs Ludwig Black Beauty
If you're in the market for a new snare drum, you've probably come across the DW Black Nickel Over Brass and Ludwig Black Beauty models. Both are highly regarded in the drumming community and have been used by famous drummers in countless recordings and performances.
So, how do you choose between the two? In this article, we'll break down the key differences and similarities between the DW Black Nickel Over Brass and Ludwig Black Beauty snare drums to help you make an informed decision.
Construction and Materials
The DW Black Nickel Over Brass snare drum has a 1mm brass shell that is plated with black nickel. This gives it a dark, warm sound with plenty of projection and sensitivity. The drum also features DW's True-Pitch tuning system, which allows for precise tuning and prevents the tension rods from slipping.
The Ludwig Black Beauty, on the other hand, has a 1.2mm brass shell that is chrome-plated. It has a slightly brighter sound than the DW, with a focused attack and crisp response. The drum also features Ludwig's P85 throw-off, which is known for its smooth and reliable operation.
Size and Weight
The DW Black Nickel Over Brass snare drum is available in a range of sizes, including 5.5x14", 6.5x14", and 8x14". It weighs around 10 pounds, depending on the size.
The Ludwig Black Beauty is also available in a range of sizes, including 5x14", 5.5x14", 6.5x14", and 8x14". It weighs slightly more than the DW, at around 12 pounds.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, both the DW Black Nickel Over Brass and Ludwig Black Beauty are highly respected and sought-after for their unique tones.
The DW has a warm, full-bodied sound with plenty of resonance and sustain. It has a slightly darker tone than the Ludwig, which makes it well-suited for rock, funk, and other genres that require a fat, punchy sound.
The Ludwig, on the other hand, has a brighter, more focused sound with plenty of projection and clarity. It has a slightly higher pitch than the DW, which makes it well-suited for jazz, blues, and other genres that require a more articulate sound.
Price
As with most high-end snare drums, both the DW Black Nickel Over Brass and Ludwig Black Beauty come with a premium price tag.
The DW typically retails for around $700, depending on the size and finish. The Ludwig is slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from $800 to $1,000, depending on the size and finish.
Conclusion
So, which snare drum is right for you? Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and the style of music you play.
If you're looking for a warm, fat sound with plenty of punch, the DW Black Nickel Over Brass is an excellent choice. If you prefer a brighter, more articulate sound with plenty of projection and clarity, the Ludwig Black Beauty is a great option.
Whichever drum you choose, you can rest assured that you're getting a high-quality instrument that is built to last and deliver exceptional sound.