Thanks to everyone who contributed to this thread. There have been some very insightful and knowledgeable comments. People here really seem to know their stuff...

you have also directed me to some lovely snare drums, so thanks for the testimonials - all of which I will be sure to check out a bit more.

I conclude that judging from samples is one dimensional and inaccurate and that both a wooden and a metal shell will probably cover most bases. I feel like I am perhaps thinking about it too much and that I need to get more hands on with trial and error in various head configs etc.

That said ... surely versatile industry proven classics can't disappoint.

Cheers all