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Average Price: $595
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
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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
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What sound characteristics can I expect from the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum?
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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.
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Is the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum suitable for recording sessions?
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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.
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What size is the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum, and how does it affect its sound?
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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.
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Does the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum have a die-cast hoop?
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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.
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What is the shell finish of the Yamaha Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum?
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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.
Videos
Memphis Drum Shop
Yamaha 14x5.5 Recording Custom Brass Snare Drum
Reviews
PROS
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High tuning range for diverse musical styles
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Warm tone with minimal buzzing
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Beautiful brass overtones with a quieter sound
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Extremely sensitive to playing dynamics
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Lightweight with articulate playability
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Versatile sound for various music genres
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Attractive design with chrome hardware and matte gray finish
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Top-notch strainer for smooth operation
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Comes with Steve Gadd snare wires for added sizzle
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Excellent for both quiet and loud playing styles
CONS
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Tension rods turn with difficulty
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Strainer mechanism can be stiff
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No tuning locks, potential for detuning
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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
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The Yamaha's build quality is praised for being robust, with easily replaceable tension rods, unlike DW's proprietary finer-threaded rods.
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Comparisons
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The Yamaha is compared to the DW Black Nickel Over Brass, with multiple users favoring Yamaha for its overall quality and cost-effectiveness.
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Yamaha's Recording Custom Brass is noted alongside Ludwig's Supraphonic and Pearl Sensitone as a versatile choice for a first metal shell snare.
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The RC Brass is noted for being more lively and louder than the Supraphonic's chrome over aluminum shell, offering a distinct tonal difference.
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Use cases and applications
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It's suggested to explore the Yamaha RC Stainless Steel and Aluminum models for varied tonal options that suit different music styles.
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The RC Brass is considered more versatile, able to mimic a Supraphonic with moon gel but offering a wider tonal range when opened up.
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Metal snares like the RC Brass are favored for versatility across styles, avoiding frequent retuning and damping adjustments compared to wood snares.
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The Yamaha Recording Custom aluminum 14"x5.5" and 6.5" models are praised for their versatility and are favorites among some drummers.
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User experience
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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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.
"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.''
He used this during the tracking of 'Fire by the Silos' and so decided to invest in one to use as his main snare.
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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