Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $580
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
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Budget
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High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum - 5.5 x 14 inch - Aluminum". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum - a masterpiece that harmonizes the legendary craftsmanship of Yamaha with the genius of Steve Gadd. This 5.5 x 14 inch aluminum snare drum is not just an instrument; it's a bridge to your best performances, offering a sound that's as versatile as it is vibrant. Crafted for those who demand precision and power, this snare promises to elevate your drumming experience.
The Yamaha Recording Custom Snare stands out with its 1.2mm aluminum shell, designed to deliver an open, woody tone that complements any music genre. It's the kind of sound that's not just heard, but felt – a testament to Yamaha's innovative approach to sound engineering. The inclusion of a special 10-strand snare wire, inspired by Steve Gadd's personal preference, ensures a crisper, more articulate sound, allowing for a staccato tone that's as sharp as it is satisfying.
Yamaha's decision to place the metal center bead on the exterior marks a bold departure from traditional design, resulting in a more open and resonant sound that distinguishes it from other drums. Coupled with its heavy-duty Q-type strainer, this snare offers robust, stable, and smooth operation, making adjustments and snare replacement effortless.
Whether you're recording in a studio or performing live, the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum is engineered to deliver unparalleled sound quality and reliability. It's not just an instrument; it's your next step towards drumming excellence.
Key Features:
- 1.2mm aluminum shell for an open, woody tone
- Special 10-strand snare wire for crisper, staccato tones
- External center bead for enhanced resonance
- Heavy-duty Q-type strainer for stable and smooth operation
- Designed in collaboration with Steve Gadd
- 3mm die-cast hoops for precision and durability
- Includes both 20-strand and Gadd-designed 10-strand snare wires
- Equipped with industry-standard Remo heads for instant playability
Product specs
| Type | Snare |
| Drum Depth | 5.5" |
| Drum Diameter | 14" |
| Shell Material | Aluminum |
| Shell Construction | 1.2mm |
| Hoops | Die-cast |
| Lugs | 10 x Updated 1-piece Lugs |
| Heads | Remo USA |
FAQs
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What are the tonal characteristics of the Yamaha Recording Custom Aluminum Snare Drum?
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The Yamaha Recording Custom Aluminum Snare Drum offers a crisp and penetrating sound with a dry tone and less sustain compared to brass or steel snares, making it ideal for both studio and live settings.
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Is the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum suitable for different music genres?
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Yes, the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum's versatile aluminum shell provides a balanced sound suitable for various genres, from rock to jazz, offering both clarity and warmth.
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What type of hoops does the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum use?
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The Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum features die-cast hoops, which provide consistent tuning stability and a focused tone ideal for precise playing.
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How does the shell material of the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum affect its sound?
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The aluminum shell of the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum delivers a bright, articulate sound with a controlled resonance, perfect for cutting through mixes without excessive overtones.
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What kind of heads come with the Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum?
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The Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum comes equipped with high-quality Remo USA heads, known for their durability and consistent sound projection.
Videos
Drum Center of Portsmouth
Yamaha Recording Custom Aluminum Snare Drum 14x5.5
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sound quality at a competitive price point
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Versatile tuning range suitable for various musical styles
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Aluminum die-cast hoops provide rigidity and lightweight benefits
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High-quality strainer and throw-off mechanism praised by users
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Includes extra snare wire options for added customization
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Excellent sensitivity for both light and heavy playing styles
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Retains tuning well during extended performances
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Ideal for live, studio, and various un-mic'd situations
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Durable construction with a classy aesthetic
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Strong presence in the mix with and without snares engaged
CONS
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Stock heads may not suit all preferences, requiring upgrades for optimal sound
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Requires precise playing technique for consistent sound quality
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha Recording Custom Snare Drum - 5.5 x 14 inch - Aluminum.
Features and functionality
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Ships with two different snare wire configurations, including a version with four wires missing in the middle, specifically for the 5.5-inch depth model.
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The 5.5" model is noted for enhanced responsiveness, making it ideal for ghost notes, while the 6.5" offers fuller tone and body, often preferred in rock music.
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Comparisons
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Essentially an Acrolite with enhancements: 10 lugs instead of 8, die-cast hoops, and slightly deeper shell, offering improved tuning stability and reduced ringing.
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The Yamaha Recording Custom Aluminum Snare is likened to the Ludwig Supraphonic, offering a similar dry tone with less overtone and sustain.
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The Yamaha Recording Custom Aluminum is preferred over brass for its specific "ping" sound, as demonstrated in the linked song.
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Ludwig Acrolite is mentioned for its attractive sound, though it's questioned whether it delivers enough volume for high-decibel genres.
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Build quality
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Die-cast hoops improve tuning stability and prevent detuning, praised for their robust construction and their impact on sound quality.
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Mods and upgrades
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Upgrading snare wires to 30 or 42 strands can improve sensitivity, especially beneficial for capturing subtle dynamics without losing the fullness of a deeper shell.
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Value and pricing
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The Pearl Sensitone Heritage Aluminum is a budget-friendly alternative, potentially saving £80-100 compared to the Yamaha Recording Custom of equivalent size.
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Budget constraints are highlighted, with a preference for aluminum or brass snares over steel, emphasizing sound quality over price.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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