Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,016
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 Snare Drum is a true icon in the world of percussion, cherished by professional drummers for over seven decades. Its seamless brass shell is meticulously crafted from a single sheet of brass, offering unparalleled sensitivity and tonal warmth that pairs beautifully with a crisp, metallic presence. This legendary drum is not just about looks; it provides a sonic depth that is both rich and focused, perfect for cutting through any musical mix.
The Black Beauty is equipped with robust die-cast hoops, providing a concentrated tone with the capability of delivering powerful rim shots and sharp cross-stick sounds. The inclusion of brass-plated tube lugs and the elegantly designed P86 Millennium snare strainer ensures both aesthetic appeal and functional precision. Whether you're playing in a studio or on stage, this snare's dynamic range and distinctive sound will elevate your performance.
The Ludwig Black Beauty isn't just another snare drum; it's a piece of history. With its signature Keystone badge and nickel-plated finish, it stands as a testament to Ludwig's dedication to quality and innovation. Revered by drummers worldwide, this snare is not just an instrument but a lifelong companion for musicians looking to make their mark.
Key Features:
- Size: 14" x 5"
- Seamless brass shell construction
- Die-cast hoops for focused tone
- Brass-plated tube lugs
- P86 Millennium snare strainer
- Iconic Keystone badge
- Made in the USA
Product specs
| Type | Black Beauty Snare |
| Drum Depth | 5" |
| Drum Diameter | 14" |
| Shell Material | Brass |
| Shell Construction | 1.2mm, Seamless |
| Hoops | Triple-flanged |
| Lugs | 10 x Imperial Lugs |
| Finish | Chrome-plated Hardware |
| Heads | Ludwig Weather Master |
FAQs
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What makes the Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 snare drum unique?
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The Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 snare drum is renowned for its seamless brass shell, which delivers a rich, warm tone with exceptional resonance. Its iconic sound has made it a favorite among professional drummers for decades.
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Is the Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 suitable for live performances and studio recording?
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Yes, the Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 is versatile and excels in both live and studio settings, offering a powerful and articulate sound that cuts through mixes while maintaining musicality.
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What type of music genres is the Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 best suited for?
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The Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of genres, including rock, jazz, and pop, thanks to its dynamic response and rich tonal quality.
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What is the shell material of the Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 snare drum?
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The Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 features a seamless brass shell, known for its warm, resonant tone and durability, contributing to its legendary status among drummers.
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How does the Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 differ from other Ludwig snare drums?
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The Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 stands out due to its seamless brass shell and distinctive tonal characteristics, offering a unique combination of warmth, projection, and sensitivity compared to other models.
Videos
Sweetwater
Ludwig Black Beauty Snare Drum Demo
Ludwig Black Beauty Snare Drum Demo
Sweetwater
Ludwig 14x5 Black Beauty Snare Drum (LB416)
Memphis Drum Shop
Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 Snare Drum
ForksDrumCloset
Ludwig 14x5 Black Beauty Snare Drum (LB416)
Memphis Drum Shop
Ludwig Black Beauty 5" x 14" Brass Snare Drum LB416
Boston Drum Center
Reviews
PROS
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Stunning black finish with brass hardware is visually captivating
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Produces a wide range of sounds, from deep to high crack
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Highly sensitive, responds well at various dynamic levels
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Cuts through loud environments, perfect for live performances
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Excellent sound quality in both low and high tuning
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Easy to tune and customize to personal taste
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Durable build with quality components like die-cast hoops
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Suitable for diverse genres from jazz to rock
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Classic sound and look with a legendary reputation
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Made in the USA with upgraded components like the P88 strainer
CONS
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Some units exhibit minor cosmetic flaws, like missing brass flakes
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Issues with loose or rattling thumb throw-off
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Requires careful playing adjustments due to powerful sound output
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Scratches inside the shell, though they don't affect performance
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14.
Build quality
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Owners have reported that Ludwig's P-85 throw-off can be easily improved with white lithium grease for smoother performance without impacting sound quality.
Source
Comparisons
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Joyful Noise offers a seamless brass snare similar in quality to the Black Beauty, but it costs significantly more.
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The Black Beauty 5x14 is praised for its bright, poppy tone, making it a highly coveted choice for drummers seeking responsiveness and unique tonal coloration.
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Tama Starphonic brass snare is mentioned as a comparable option with balanced tuning and crack, attracting former Black Beauty users.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The 6.5" version of the Black Beauty is favored in studios for its incredible attack that integrates well into mixes, despite its harshness when played live.
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The Black Beauty's shallow brass build is noted for its responsiveness, making it ideal for genres requiring dynamic and articulate snare sounds.
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The 5x14 Black Beauty can be tuned tight for a crack without losing its full body, catering to diverse musical genres from jazz to rock.
Source
Value and pricing
Features and functionality
Mods and upgrades
Setup and maintenance
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Some users face tuning stability issues, requiring frequent adjustments even in controlled environments; lug locks can mitigate this problem.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
393
CLASSIC.
RECORDS GREAT.PRICEY,BUT WORTH IT. CUTS THROUGH WITH CLASS.GOT BECAUSE ERIC KRETZ OF STP USES ONE.
Artist usage
Add artist
At 0:17 you can see the snare propped up next to his Tom Tom
In a interview he stated that the black beauty is as favorite snare drum. He talks about it around 52:45
This is a translation of an interview she did with Rhythm & Drums magazine for April 2020. There is a full rundown of all of her equipment.
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on the official instagram Ludwig page he use black beauty 5x14
Album Usage
The Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ludwig Black Beauty 5x14, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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