Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$639.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$639.99
Amazon
4.6 (11)
$487.19
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$639.99
Thomann
4.7 (6)
$575.00 $569.00 $6.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£499.00

Average Price: $595

High-end/Boutique

$150

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5'', a snare drum that is as versatile as it is dynamic. A product of the Recording Custom series, this snare drum comes with Yamaha's seal of quality, and the invaluable input of renowned drummer Steve Gadd.

This snare drum features a unique 10- or 14-strand snare wire, with the middle four strands removed. This innovative design enhances the cutoff of the sound, resulting in a crisper staccato tone. For the first time in Yamaha’s history, the metal center bead has been fixed to the outside of the drum, resulting in a more open sound than conventional drums, giving you a clear, articulate performance.

The Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum is fitted with a heavy-duty Q-type strainer - robust, stable, and smooth - offering hassle-free adjustment and snare replacement.

This drum offers a big, bold sound with limitless projection and sustain, thanks to its 1.2mm brass shell. The design is enhanced with 2.3mm triple-flanged Dyna Hoops, which impart an open tone and an excited low-end punch.

Key Features:

  • 10- or 14-strand snare wire with the middle four strands removed for a crisper staccato tone
  • External center bead for a more open sound and clear, articulate performance
  • Heavy-duty Q-type strainer for smooth operation and easy adjustment
  • 1.2mm brass shell for limitless projection and sustain
  • 2.3mm triple-flanged Dyna Hoops for an open tone and low-end punch
  • Fitted with Remo batter and snare heads for a record-ready sound.

Product specs

Available since June 2016
Die Cast Hoop No
Hammered Shell No
Shell Colour Brass

FAQs

What sound characteristics can I expect from the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum?

The Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum offers a bright, crisp sound with a pronounced attack and clear projection, making it versatile for various music styles. Its brass shell provides a lively tone that cuts through mixes, suitable for both studio recording and live performances.

Is the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum suitable for recording sessions?

Yes, the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum is ideal for recording sessions due to its clear, articulate sound and dynamic response. Its design is tailored to provide consistent tonal quality that captures well in studio environments.

What size is the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum, and how does it affect its sound?

The Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum is 14 inches in diameter and 5.5 inches deep. This size offers a balanced blend of depth and sensitivity, providing a versatile sound that works well across various musical genres.

Does the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum have a die-cast hoop?

No, the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum does not feature a die-cast hoop. This allows for a more open and resonant sound compared to drums with die-cast hoops, which typically provide a tighter, more focused tone.

What is the shell finish of the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum?

The Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum features a brass shell finish. This finish not only contributes to its bright and cutting sound but also provides a visually striking appearance.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum

Video thumbnail for Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum by Memphis Drum Shop

Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14x5.5 by Drum Center of Portsmouth

Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14x5.5

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Recording Custom Brass 14"x5.5" Snare Drum Review (Snare of the Month #9) by Simon Springer

Yamaha Recording Custom Brass 14"x5.5" Snare Drum Review (Snare of the Month #9)

Simon Springer

Simon Springer

Video thumbnail for Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum (RRS1455) by Memphis Drum Shop

Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum (RRS1455)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Yamaha 5.5x14" Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum by Denver Percussion

Yamaha 5.5x14" Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum

Denver Percussion

Denver Percussion

Video thumbnail for Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Reviews

PROS

  • High tuning range for diverse musical styles

  • Warm tone with minimal buzzing

  • Beautiful brass overtones with a quieter sound

  • Extremely sensitive to playing dynamics

  • Lightweight with articulate playability

  • Versatile sound for various music genres

  • Attractive design with chrome hardware and matte gray finish

  • Top-notch strainer for smooth operation

  • Comes with Steve Gadd snare wires for added sizzle

  • Excellent for both quiet and loud playing styles

CONS

  • Tension rods turn with difficulty

  • Strainer mechanism can be stiff

  • No tuning locks, potential for detuning

  • Some models may have dents on the rim

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''.

Build quality

  • The Yamaha's build quality is praised for being robust, with easily replaceable tension rods, unlike DW's proprietary finer-threaded rods.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Yamaha is compared to the DW Black Nickel Over Brass, with multiple users favoring Yamaha for its overall quality and cost-effectiveness.

    Source
  • Yamaha's Recording Custom Brass is noted alongside Ludwig's Supraphonic and Pearl Sensitone as a versatile choice for a first metal shell snare.

    Source
  • The RC Brass is noted for being more lively and louder than the Supraphonic's chrome over aluminum shell, offering a distinct tonal difference.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's suggested to explore the Yamaha RC Stainless Steel and Aluminum models for varied tonal options that suit different music styles.

    Source
  • The RC Brass is considered more versatile, able to mimic a Supraphonic with moon gel but offering a wider tonal range when opened up.

    Source
  • Metal snares like the RC Brass are favored for versatility across styles, avoiding frequent retuning and damping adjustments compared to wood snares.

    Source
  • The Yamaha Recording Custom aluminum 14"x5.5" and 6.5" models are praised for their versatility and are favorites among some drummers.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite a preference for Ludwig, one owner recommends the RC Brass for its unique sound, noting it's a standout in their collection.

    Source
  • The Yamaha 14"x6.5" Sensitive Series is noted for its versatility and smooth playability, being among the last drums made in Japan.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • To prevent pitting on metal snares, keep them dry and case-stored; use a microfiber cloth for cleaning without chemicals.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha Recording Custom snare drums review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Exceptional craftsmanship defines the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum. Its solid build and versatile tonal options cater to a range of musical styles. While the sound is rich and warm, some may find the brass a bit uncontrolled compared to other materials. Overall, this snare drum is a standout choice for drummers seeking quality and performance.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jason Cooper uses Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''

Jason Cooper

Drummer

The Cure

...
Verified via Photo

During The Cure's 2019 tour, Jason Cooper used a Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum (14''x5.5''), as seen in a Getty Images photo from their performance.

See how Erik Sandin uses Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''

Erik Sandin

Drummer

NOFX

...
Verified via YouTube

"I got this new brass snare. It's 14''x5.5''. It has depth, which I like, but it also has the top end. You know, the snap. It is easily twice as loud as my last snare. I mean the other snare sounds great, but this one is just like... it's like a cannon.''

See how Tom Hunting uses Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''

Tom Hunting

Drummer

Exodus

...
Verified via Yamaha

it states on the official yamaha website he uses this snare

See how Ben Minal uses Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''

Ben Minal

Drummer

Dorje

...
Verified via YouTube

He used this during the tracking of 'Fire by the Silos' and so decided to invest in one to use as his main snare.

See how Anton Franzon uses Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''

Anton Franzon

Drummer

Normandie

...
Verified via YouTube

In Anton Franzon's YouTube video titled "Don Broco - Technology - Drum Cover," he uses the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''. Additional details about the drum can be found in the video's description.

See how Conor Rayne uses Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5''

Conor Rayne

Drummer, Music Producer

Brasstracks

...
Verified via Yamaha

According to Conor's artist page on Yamaha's website, Conor uses many of their drums, including their Recording Custom Brass Snare 14"x5.5".

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 Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum 14''x5.5'', it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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