Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$1,672.99
Guitar Center
$1,672.99
Amazon
1.0 (1)
$1,672.99
Musician's Friend
$1,672.99
Thomann
$1,525.00 $1,499.00 $26.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£1,449.00

Average Price: $1,638

High-end/Boutique

$150

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Pearl Reference Brass Snare". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Pearl Reference Brass Snare is an ideal choice for drummers seeking a snare drum that offers both power and precision. Crafted from a 3mm brass shell, this snare delivers an authoritative tone that projects with clarity and resonance. Its bell-like characteristics ensure your sound cuts through any mix, whether in a live performance or studio setting. The robust nature of brass is complemented by professional-grade hardware, making it a reliable companion for both seasoned musicians and enthusiastic beginners.

The Reference Brass Snare boasts meticulously engineered components designed for ultimate control over your sound. Equipped with STL-100 lugs and stainless steel tension rods, this drum provides precise tuning capabilities, allowing you to achieve your desired pitch effortlessly. The SR-1000 Glide-Lock strainer, featuring a push-button lock and smooth release, offers hassle-free snare adjustments, ensuring your performance is always on point.

Built to withstand the rigors of touring, the Reference Brass Snare's durability is unmatched. The die-cast MasterCast hoops provide stability and control overtones, while the Ultra-Sound D-Type snare wires offer crisp articulation with every stroke. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or commanding the stage, this snare is engineered to deliver consistent, high-quality sound.

Key Features:

  • 3mm brass shell for powerful projection and bell-like tone
  • STL-100 lugs and stainless steel tension rods for precise tuning
  • SR-1000 Glide-Lock strainer with push-button lock and smooth release
  • MasterCast die-cast hoops for stability and overtone control
  • Ultra-Sound D-Type snare wires for crisp articulation
  • Remo Ambassador heads for versatile performance

Product specs

Type Reference One Snare
Drum Depth 6.5"
Drum Diameter 14"
Shell Material Brass
Shell Construction 3mm
Hoops MasterCast Die-cast
Lugs 10 x Single Swivel Lugs
Additional Features Glide-Lock Strainer, D-Type Ultra-Sound Snare Wires

FAQs

What type of music is the Pearl Reference Brass Snare best suited for?

The Pearl Reference Brass Snare is versatile and suitable for a variety of music styles, including rock, jazz, and orchestral, thanks to its rich, powerful tone and projection.

How does the 3mm brass shell affect the sound of the Pearl Reference Snare?

The 3mm brass shell provides a bright, cutting sound with excellent projection, making it ideal for live performances where clarity and volume are important.

What is the size of the Pearl Reference Brass Snare, and how does it influence its sound?

The snare measures 14 inches in diameter and 6.5 inches in depth, offering a balanced sound with a mix of deep, resonant tones and sharp, articulate attack.

Does the Pearl Reference Brass Snare feature any special hardware?

Yes, it includes MasterCast Die-cast hoops for added durability and precise tuning, along with a Glide-Lock Strainer for smooth, reliable snare tension adjustment.

Are the snare wires on the Pearl Reference Brass Snare unique?

The snare comes with D-Type Ultra-Sound Snare Wires, which enhance sensitivity and provide a crisp, responsive snare sound, perfect for dynamic playing.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Pearl 14x6.5 Reference Series Brass Snare Drum

Video thumbnail for Pearl 14x6.5 Reference Series Brass Snare Drum by Memphis Drum Shop

Pearl 14x6.5 Reference Series Brass Snare Drum

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for [Sound Sample] Pearl Reference Brass Snare Drum 14x6.5" by www.drumgarage.co.kr by DRUMGARAGE

[Sound Sample] Pearl Reference Brass Snare Drum 14x6.5" by www.drumgarage.co.kr

DRUMGARAGE

DRUMGARAGE

Video thumbnail for Pearl 14x6.5 Reference Brass Snare Drum (RFB-1465) by Memphis Drum Shop

Pearl 14x6.5 Reference Brass Snare Drum (RFB-1465)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pearl Reference Brass Snare.

Value and pricing

  • The Pearl Reference Brass snare is often compared to the Brass Free Floater, which offers similar sound quality at a significantly lower cost when purchased used.

    Source

User experience

  • The 14x6.5 Pearl Reference Brass snare is praised for its versatility, with different users highlighting its distinct sound characteristics compared to other Pearl brass snares.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Pearl Reference Brass is often mentioned alongside higher-end models like the Ludwig Black Beauty and Tama Bell Brass, indicating its strong performance and popularity among enthusiasts.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Pearl Reference Brass snare is frequently described as having a powerful and loud sound, earning nicknames like "the cannon" among bands and drummers.

    Source
  • The "Shimmer of Oz" finish with gold hardware is a known option in the Pearl Reference line, often considered highly desirable.

    Source
  • Gold and Black Chrome hardware options were available in the Reference series, in addition to the standard chrome. Nickel and Black Nickel options came later.

    Source

Build quality

  • Identification of Pearl snare vintage can be done by examining the lugs and strainers; smooth lugs are second generation (1992-2004), while rough finish lugs are from 1985-1992.

    Source
  • This snare features a 20-ply mixed shell, combining 6 inner plies of birch with 14 outer plies of maple, contributing to its robust sound quality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The "Shimmer of Oz" finish is particularly appealing to those drawn to sparkling aesthetics, making it a standout choice for visual impact.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Halpern uses Pearl Reference Brass Snare

Matt Halpern

Drummer

Periphery

...
Verified via Photo

In a studio update on Instagram, Matt Halpern reveals that he used the Pearl Reference Brass Snare while recording the Periphery album.

See how Ray Luzier uses Pearl Reference Brass Snare

Ray Luzier

Drummer

Korn

...
Verified via YouTube

at 0:54 you can see the pearl Reference Brass Snare. He said it's 14x7 but I'm not sure(He also said something between Bronze and Brass, maybe he meant an other snare).But on the video this is definetly a Reference Brass Snare. As a normal customer you can only buy 14"x6,5". Maybe it's custom.

See how Jen Ledger uses Pearl Reference Brass Snare

Jen Ledger

Singer, Drummer

Skillet

...
Verified via Pearldrum

Jen Ledger uses a Pearl Reference 6.5x14 Brass Snare.

See how Brandon Pertzborn uses Pearl Reference Brass Snare

Brandon Pertzborn

Drummer

Marilyn Manson

...
Verified via Instagram

In this post brandon’s drum tech runs through his setup. His drum tech states that he uses a pearl brass snare drum

See how Morgan Rose uses Pearl Reference Brass Snare

Morgan Rose

Drummer

Sevendust

...
Verified

Morgan Rose uses the Pearl Reference Brass Snare, as listed in his setup on the official Pearl Drums website.

See how David-Karl Friedrich uses Pearl Reference Brass Snare

David-Karl Friedrich

Drummer

Electric Callboy

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "Behind the Drummer | Drumtech POV | Rock am Ring | Electric Callboy Europe Festivals 2024," at the timestamp 6:27, David-Karl Friedrich's drum tech, Chrizzly, confirms that he is using a Pearl Reference Brass Snare 14"x6.5".

Album Usage

The Pearl Reference Brass Snare has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Pearl Reference Brass Snare, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

More Pearl Snare Drums

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides