I have a chance to buy a really clean set of mid-sixties black sparkle Sonors. The 5x14 wood snare drum has the 8 up/down lug arrangement(total of 16). The only thing that I'm hesitant about is the throw-off/strainer assemblies. One side has a round, black plastic capped mechanism with throw-off lever and the opposite side has a chrome plated threaded rod (with hole for string) and a round,flat chrome tension adjustment knob. The wires are missing. My question is... how do you attach the strings to the black capped piece? I know the cap is removable. Any pix, advice would be most appreciated. Thanx in advance
Mid 60's Sonor Throw-off
The lever must be pushed to the side a bit, attach the strings, & then they are pulled tight as you push the lever up. There is a small wire loop on (like on a necklace ) to hold the strings.
T Dennis- thanks alot! Is this throw-off design practical? Does it work OK? Is the drum worth getting??
I would say a definite yes, if the throw & butt are all intact. It's not a great system to begin with, & needs to be looked at carefully. (of course the price, & condition are what make it "worthwhile"). Your lucky to find a snare that has the front pop-on strainer cover, most are missing. (remember, many sellers will not know what parts are original, or missing, on these old snares). They also have a large & complex muffler.
So, if the one I'm interested in looks like your pic, it's complete? The muffler is missing the felt pads. Not a biggie... I don't usually muffle my snare drum. Did Sonor use beech shells??
My snare is missing the front cover. Sonor snares/drums were well built, but there is always an engineering weakness on many great drums. The most frequent design weakness is the strainer system. If you find a drum where everything works, then get, it & be aware that it may take some special care. Google "Sonor Museum" to get an extended, detailed examination of all things Sonor.
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