I'm buying an old 6 ply Sonor teardrop set and was wondering about their snare drums from the same era (or a bit later). I see D-444, D-426, but mainly interested in the D-454. I see something about "ferro manganese" (not sure what that entails) but does anyone know if this snare is COB, Aluminum or Steel? Sonically is it in range of something like an Acrolite or richer/fatter like a Rogers/Gretsch/Slingerland COB?
Also assuming the strainers on these things are a chore to find now, so how well are they made if the one I get is functional? Solid enough to gig with regularly? And what's the value on one in good shape? May just drill it for a new strainer if it goes and these things aren't collectible.
Thanks.