Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Amazon
4.1 (14)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$209.00 New
$199.00 Used
zZounds
4.5 (4)
$199.00
Thomann
4.7 (48)
$272.00 $271.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $217

Standard/Professional

$150

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the rhythm of your soul with the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum - a beacon of craftsmanship designed for the discerning drummer. The Ludwig Supralite, known for its perfect balance of tone, stands at the crossroads of classic design and modern versatility. Crafted from a 1mm beaded steel shell, this snare promises not just an eye-catching appearance but also a sound rich in depth and clarity. Whether you're laying down backbeats in a smokey jazz club or anchoring the rhythm in a rock anthem, the Supralite's wide tuning range and rounded attack adapt seamlessly, offering a sound that's as diverse as your playing style.

At the heart of its design, the Supralite is adorned with robust chrome-over-brass lugs and 2.3mm triple-flanged hoops, ensuring that it not only looks the part but can hold its tune through the most rigorous of performances. Its brass snare wires add that final touch of precision, bringing a crisp sensitivity to your playing that's hard to overlook. For the drummer who craves a snare drum that marries tradition with the demands of modern playability, the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 is your companion on this musical journey. It's not just a drum; it's a statement of your dedication to your craft.

Key Features:

  • Supralite 1mm beaded steel shell for a versatile and balanced tone
  • Chrome over solid brass tube lugs for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal
  • 2.3mm triple-flanged hoops for a robust build and reliable tuning
  • Brass snare wires for a crisp, sensitive response

Product specs

Available since June 2013
Depth in inch 5,5"
Die Cast Hoop No
Hammered Shell No
Shell Colour Chrome

FAQs

What material is the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum shell made from?

The Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum features a steel shell, which provides a bright, cutting tone with plenty of projection suitable for various music styles.

Does the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum have die-cast hoops?

No, the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum does not have die-cast hoops. It features triple-flanged hoops, which contribute to an open sound and responsive feel.

Is the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum is well-suited for live performances due to its bright tone and strong projection, making it ideal for cutting through a mix on stage.

What is the finish of the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum?

The Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum comes in a chrome finish, offering a sleek and classic look that complements any drum kit setup.

How does the Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum's sound suit different music genres?

The Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5 snare drum's bright and cutting sound is versatile enough to suit a wide range of music genres, from rock and pop to jazz and funk.

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Ludwig Supralite Snare Drum 5.5X14

Video thumbnail for Ludwig Supralite Snare Drum 5.5X14 by Drum Center of Portsmouth

Ludwig Supralite Snare Drum 5.5X14

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Video thumbnail for Ludwig 14x5.5 Supralite Snare Drum (LU5514SL) by Memphis Drum Shop

Ludwig 14x5.5 Supralite Snare Drum (LU5514SL)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for LUDWIG Supralite Steel 14x5,5" by Drumcenter cz

LUDWIG Supralite Steel 14x5,5"

Drumcenter cz

Drumcenter cz

Video thumbnail for Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5" Steel Snare - Drums With Oisín (MMTV) by Musicmaker

Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5" Steel Snare - Drums With Oisín (MMTV)

Musicmaker

Musicmaker

Video thumbnail for Ludwig Supralite 5.5"x14" Snare Drum by A Drummer's Tradition

Ludwig Supralite 5.5"x14" Snare Drum

A Drummer's Tradition

A Drummer's Tradition

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent Ludwig tone, versatile for rock, pop, jazz, and funk

  • Great value, competes with more expensive snares

  • Crisp and punchy sound with wide tuning range

  • Durable build, suitable for heavy playing

  • Attractive classic Ludwig design

  • Easily tuned to low, mid, and high settings

  • Provides a distinct metallic "ping" similar to Supraphonic

  • Lightweight but solid construction

  • Ideal for both beginners and professionals

  • Ready to play out of the box with minor tuning

CONS

  • Prone to detuning, especially with rimshots

  • Requires frequent tuning adjustments during performances

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ludwig Supralite 14x5.5.

Build quality

  • Some users experienced issues with the Supralite's tuning stability and overtones, particularly in larger sizes like the 14x8.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Supralite, while affordable, is compared to the Supraphonic, which is praised for its versatility and historical significance in recordings.

    Source
  • The Yamaha snare features thin hoops, while the Ludwig Supralite reportedly has a poor throw-off, a known weak point for Ludwig.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Supralite is described as a good choice for loud, cannon-like sounds, but may not suit every player's preference for responsiveness and overtones.

    Source
  • A 5.5-inch snare is easier to play and suits club shows, whereas a 6.5-inch can be too loud for small venues but is preferred in studios.

    Source
  • High-pitched snares like the Supralite can cut through mixes well, though overtones are more noticeable when playing close to the drum.

    Source
  • The 15x5 Supralite is noted as a rare, potentially collectible size, adding unique appeal and future value for enthusiasts.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users appreciate the Supralite for its cost-effectiveness, stating it sounds better than its price suggests, especially in the 6.5-inch size for versatility.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the Supralite's impressive dynamic range, providing better control over ghost notes compared to beginner models like the Pearl Export.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Overtones can be influenced by head choice; single-ply heads create more overtones than two-ply, with hydraulic two-ply producing even fewer.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users have replaced the factory throw-off with a P88 throw-off, enhancing the drum's overall value and performance.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • One owner finds the Supralite to offer remarkable value, suggesting it competes well with higher-end snares due to its quality and price point.

    Source

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Genre Usage

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