Hi All,
I have a '67 Acrolite that I need to replace the snare set on.
I have a Remo Coated Ambassador on the batter side and a Remo Hazy on the bottom.
Not sure what the snare strand count was originally on these, but would like to get something similar. I can't go by the set on there now as it's a mangled 16 wire non-Ludwig brand set.
Your advice is appreciated!
Hi DD!
The majority of Acrolites came with either 16 or 20 strand wires with plastic ends. Pictured is one of my Acrolites with original wires.
I've tried dozens of different snare wires over the years, from generic no-name to high-end Puresound, Canopus, etc. What I've found, and this is just my opinion, is that generic wires, in either 16 or 20 strands work great on these drums. Here's a link to these wires from Drum Factory Direct. https://www.drumfactorydirect.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=6_104_374_75 Just scroll down to see the SW-1416 and SW-1420 wires. In fact, the SW-1420 has been used on US-built Ludwig snare drums for quite some time now. The only difference is that there is a "Ludwig" logo on the metal end plates.
Others might recommend different wires from experience, and that's fine. We all have our snare wire preferences!
-Mark
I have to argue for Puresound wires. I get them from D'Addario and they have never failed me. Not once in all these years. I never have loose wires hanging after gigs. Yes, they're more expensive, but you gets what you pays for. Go with the 20 strand wires.
I used to have an endorsement deal with Grover Percussion and used their snare wires. They were just awful. They'd break constantly, usually after 10-12 gigs. They were sending them to me for free after a while, and I finally told them I was done, I'm switching to Puresound. No regrets.
I have to argue for Puresound wires. I get them from D'Addario and they have never failed me. Not once in all these years. I never have loose wires hanging after gigs. Yes, they're more expensive, but you gets what you pays for. Go with the 20 strand wires. I used to have an endorsement deal with Grover Percussion, and used their snare wires. They were just awful. They'd break constantly, usually after 10-12 gigs. They were sending them to me for free after a while, and I finally told them I was done, I'm switching to Puresound. No regrets.
Hey DrumBob!
I would tend to agree with you about Puresound wires. In fact, I have more Puresounds on my snares than any other brand. What I've found, though, is that Puresound wires tend to lean towards a more "dark" tone. For many of my chrome and brass snares, they tame the sound really well. But, with the majority of aluminum-shelled snare drums, the sound is already somewhat dry and I found using a "snappy snare", such as the generic wires sold by just about everyone, gives a bit more life and tone to these drums. Just my opinion!
-Mark
Thanks all for the great advice. I think I'll try a 20 strand set from DFD. The price is right!
Thanks all for the great advice. I think I'll try a 20 strand set from DFD. The price is right!
Let us know how they sound. There are lots of great snare wires available and you can hear the difference. The only issue it that it can get pricey to experiment! LoLoLoLo
-Mark
