If you’ve ever tried to cut through a wall of Marshall stacks with a thin wooden snare, you already know why metal snares rule heavy music. The best metal snare drums deliver the sharp crack, the high SPL, and the focused attack that steel, brass, and copper shells produce naturally. After spending weeks tracking, gigging, and dialing in 12 different models, our team pulled together this roundup to help you find the right snare for your style of metal.
We focused on snares that metal drummers actually reach for: deep steel drums that handle blast beats, brass shells that give you the iconic “crack,” and copper options for players who want a darker, fatter voice that still cuts. The list spans $129 budget picks under $300 up to $899 flagship classics like the Black Beauty, so there is something here whether you play in a basement or on an arena stage.
This guide covers not just the products but also the shell material science, subgenre matching (death metal, thrash, prog metal, djent), and tuning tips that most roundups skip. By the end, you’ll know exactly which metal snare drum belongs behind your kit.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Metal Snare Drums (September 2026)
Ludwig LB417 Black Beauty 6.5×14
- Seamless brass beaded shell
- Iconic P-85 throw-off
- Massive dynamic range
Tama S.L.P. Big Black Steel 8×14
- 1.0mm steel shell
- Deep rich sound
- Cuts through heavy guitars
Best Metal Snare Drums in 2026 Quick Overview
1. Ludwig Steel Snare Drum 14 x 5 in. – Affordable Workhorse for Beginners
Ludwig Steel Snare Drum 14 x 5 in.
5x14 steel shell
8 lugs
Ludwig build quality
Pros
- Trusted Ludwig brand
- Great value
- 8-lug design
- Plays well for practice
Cons
- Factory head can underwhelm
- Some shipping QC issues
I pulled the Ludwig LC054S out of the box for a friend who plays in a local thrash cover band and wanted an honest budget option. The 5×14 steel shell is the classic snare size, and Ludwig’s alloy steel build gives it a focused crack right out of the box. It weighs about 9.1 pounds, which feels solid without being a beast to transport.
The 8-lug configuration keeps tuning even across the head, which matters when you’re laying into fast double-stroke rolls between blast beats. I had it sounding decent within five minutes of tuning, and after swapping the stock head for an Evans G1 it really opened up. For a snare under $130, the tone is brighter and more cutting than most wood snares in this range.
That said, the stock heads leave something to be desired. I also noticed the snare side head arrived slightly out of true on the unit we tested, though the seller replaced it without hassle. If you treat this as a “shell with potential” rather than a finished product, you’ll be very happy with the LC054S.
For whom it’s good
Beginner metal drummers who want a trusted brand at a low price. Players who like a 5-inch depth for faster response. Anyone who plans to swap heads and wires to dial in their own sound.
For whom it’s bad
Players who need a deep 6.5 to 8-inch wall of thump for heavy breakdowns. Studio engineers chasing a complex overtone series. Drummers who need a snare that handles extreme rimshots in a dense live mix without EQ help.
2. Tama Metalworks Snare Drum – 4 x 13-inch – Compact Steel Crack for Metal
Tama Metalworks Snare Drum – 4 x 13-inch
4x13 stainless steel
1.0mm shell
Triple-flanged hoops
Pros
- Crisp focused crack
- Solid build
- Easy to tune
Cons
- Rim may arrive bent
- Factory heads need upgrades
- White coating wears
The Tama Metalworks 4×13 is the smallest snare on this list, and I expected it to sound thin. Instead, it produced a sharp, almost laser-cut crack when I played it through a 4×12 cab. The 1.0mm stainless steel shell is the same gauge used in many flagship snares, so the sensitivity and resonance are surprisingly high for a $175 drum.
A 4-inch depth means snare response is lightning fast, which is excellent for fast blast beats and tight rimshots in death metal. Tama also built it with triple-flanged hoops, which keeps the overtones crisp rather than dampened. I used it on a couple of progressive metal tracks and it sat beautifully under busy kick patterns.
The downsides showed up on day one. The rim on our test unit had a very slight bend out of the box, and the matte white coating on the hoops scuffed after a few gigs. The factory heads are also mediocre, so plan to budget another $30 to $40 for an Evans HD Dry or Remo Controlled Sound X. Once you replace those, this little drum punches well above its weight class.
For whom it’s good
Metal drummers who play fast double kick work and need a quick response snare. Players with smaller kits or hybrid setups who want a compact secondary snare. Studio drummers tracking djent or progressive metal who want a tight crack to layer.
For whom it’s bad
Players chasing that deep, full-body “boom” in slower metal styles. Drummers who gig every weekend and need a finish that holds up long-term. Anyone who wants a stock drum ready to record right out of the box.
3. Ludwig 5.5×14 Supralite Snare Drum – Polished Steel With Versatile Tone
Ludwig 5.5×14 Supralite Snare Drum
5.5x14 steel shell
2.3mm triple-flanged hoops
Polished finish
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Strong build
- Versatile tuning
Cons
- Possible shipping damage
- Factory heads are basic
The Ludwig 5.5×14 Supralite is one of the highest-rated snares in its price bracket, and after spending a few hours with it I understand why. The shell is light enough to resonate freely but thick enough (1mm rolled steel) to handle aggressive rimshots without choking. Polished hardware gives it a stage-friendly look under lights.
I compared this side by side with a $400 brass snare and was honestly impressed. The Supralite held its own on a thrash metal track, with enough crack to sit on top of the mix and enough body to keep the backbeat from sounding pingy. At 5.5 inches deep, it splits the difference between speed and depth.
The main complaint in user reviews is bent hoops on arrival, and I did see one slightly warped tension rod. Ludwig backs the drum with a 5-year warranty, so if anything arrives funky the brand will sort you out. Heads and wires are also basic, but that’s a quick $30 upgrade.
For whom it’s good
Players who want a single snare that can cover both metal and rock. Anyone shopping in the $200 range who refuses to compromise on tone. Drummers who record at home and want a forgiving snare that doesn’t need constant EQ.
For whom it’s bad
Players who need a deep 8-inch shell for maximum projection. Drummers who want signature-model flair or boutique aesthetics. Anyone buying sight-unseen without checking shipping insurance.
4. Ludwig 8 x 14 Supralite Snare Drum – The Top-Rated Budget Powerhouse
Ludwig 8″ x 14″ Supralite Snare Drum (LU0814SL)
8x14 steel shell
2.3mm triple-flanged hoops
Chrome-plated
Pros
- Loud and powerful
- Top-rated by users
- Versatile for any genre
- Sensitive response
Cons
- May need head replacement
The Ludwig 8×14 Supralite is hands-down the best bang for the buck in this entire roundup. With 153 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it is also one of the most crowd-pleased snares on Amazon. I used it on a doom metal session and was blown away by how much low-end thump came out of a 2.3mm steel shell.
The 8-inch depth gives it serious body, which is exactly what you need when you’re competing with two guitar cabs and a bass rig. Yet the brass snare strands and triple-flanged hoops keep the crack articulate enough for jazz ghost notes if you ever want to use it for non-metal work. Ludwig also ships it with a smooth throw-off that engages cleanly even under hand pressure.
I A/B tested it against a Black Beauty and was surprised how close it got on the backbeat. The Supralite lacks some of the harmonic complexity of a seamless brass shell, but for less than a third of the price, the trade-off is well worth it. The stock heads are not great for metal applications, so swap in an Evans Genera HD Dry.
For whom it’s good
Metal drummers on a budget who want a deep, powerful snare that competes with high-end options. Players who double-duty in rock or jazz and need versatility. Gigging drummers who need a reliable, well-built shell with a 5-year warranty.
For whom it’s bad
Players chasing boutique shell craftsmanship. Anyone who needs a snare that sounds finished out of the box without head swaps. Drummers who want a lighter snare for very fast tempos with minimal effort.
5. Tama S.L.P. Big Black Steel Snare Drum 8 x 14 – Limited Edition Powerhouse
Tama S.L.P. Big Black Steel Snare Drum – 8 Inches X 14 Inches Limited Edition
8x14 steel shell
1.0mm shell
2.3mm triple-flanged hoops
Pros
- Deep rich sound
- Cuts through heavy guitars
- Solid construction
- Monstrous low end
Cons
- Limited tuning range
- Mighty hoops won't take extreme tension
The Tama S.L.P. Big Black Steel has a cult following for good reason. The matte black finish looks aggressive on stage, and the 1.0mm steel shell produces the kind of deep, full sound that defines modern metal recording. At 12.7 pounds it has serious mass, which translates into headroom when you hit it hard.
Owners consistently describe it as a “monster of a snare” and I agree. The 8-inch depth paired with a 1.0mm shell creates a low fundamental that you feel in your chest. When I tracked rhythm guitars through a 5150 sim and layered in this snare, it sat perfectly in the mix without needing compression.
The trade-off is tuning range. The triple-flanged Mighty Hoops do not love extremely high tension, so if you crank it for a sharp backbeat the rim may start to bend. For most metal applications the tuning window is fine, but jazz players should look elsewhere. Otherwise, this limited edition Tama delivers premium tone at a mid-range price.
For whom it’s good
Drummers who play heavy riffs and need a snare that won’t disappear in dense mixes. Players who want a stage-ready finish that doesn’t show fingerprints. Anyone who values deep fundamental tone over extreme tuning versatility.
For whom it’s bad
Players who constantly retune at extreme pitches. Jazz or fusion drummers who want a wide tuning range. Anyone buying used without checking hoop alignment.
6. Ludwig 5.5×14 Universal Brass Snare Drum Chrome – Punchy Brass Character
Ludwig 5.5×14 Universal Brass Snare Drum Chrome
5.5x14 brass shell
2.3mm triple-flanged hoops
Chrome hardware
Pros
- Musical overtone ring
- Thick crack and fundamental
- Precise sensitivity
- Strong hardware
Cons
- Top head could be better
The Ludwig Universal Brass line is one of the brand’s best-kept secrets. This 5.5×14 model is a step up from the steel Supralite but well under the price of a Black Beauty. The brass shell produces that classic warm crack with thick low end, and chrome hardware keeps it stage-ready.
I tracked some progressive metal with this drum and was impressed by the dynamic range. At low volumes the ghost notes spoke clearly, and at full velocity the crack cut through two distorted rhythm guitars. The 5-year warranty is a nice bonus too.
The included heads are the only real weakness. They sound OK for practice, but for recording I swapped on an Evans EC Reverse Dot. Once I did that, this snare really sang. It is also Prime eligible, which makes shipping painless.
For whom it’s good
Metal drummers who want brass tone without Black Beauty prices. Players who need both ghost note sensitivity and high-volume crack. Studio drummers who record multiple genres with one snare.
For whom it’s bad
Players chasing a deep 8-inch wall of thump. Anyone who needs premium stock heads out of the box. Drummers who want a lighter snare for fast footwork.
7. Pearl 14×6.5 SensiTone Heritage Alloy Black Nickel-over-Brass – Boutique Tone at Mid Price
Pearl 14″x6.5″ SensiTone Heritage Alloy Black Nickel-over-Brass Snare Drum with Beaded Shell, 2.3mm Triple-Flanged Hoops, and 10 arched CL Lugs
14x6.5 black nickel over brass
Beaded shell
10 CL arched lugs
Pros
- Deep rich tone
- Top-notch build
- Perfect for rock and blues
- 100 percent 5-star reviews
Cons
- Initial tuning required
Pearl’s SensiTone Heritage line is built for serious drummers, and the Black Nickel-over-Brass model punches well above its $429 price. The beaded brass shell construction is the same approach used in much more expensive drums. It gives the snare a thick, complex overtone series that you usually only get from boutique builders.
I played this snare on a couple of hard rock tracks and it had that warm, punchy voice Pearl designed it for. The 10 arched CL lugs keep the head evenly tensioned, which matters when you’re dealing with the kind of rim abuse metal drummers dish out. Remo USA heads are also a nice touch, saving you the upgrade cost.
Every single reviewer gave this snare 5 stars, which is almost unheard of. A few mentioned you need to spend some time dialing in the tuning before it really shines. Once you do, the response and tone rival snares twice the price.
For whom it’s good
Players who want boutique tone without boutique pricing. Drummers who record rock, blues, or metal with one versatile snare. Anyone who values a lifetime warranty on Pearl hardware.
For whom it’s bad
Players who need a deep 8-inch shell for extreme low-end thump. Anyone who hates dialing in tuning out of the box. Drummers who want a flashy chrome finish.
8. Tama S.L.P. Expressive Hammered Steel Snare Drum 6 x 14 – Bright Hammered Crack
Tama S.L.P. Expressive Hammered Steel Snare Drum – 6 inches x 14 inches, Glossy
6x14 hammered steel shell
1.2mm shell
2.3mm triple-flanged hoops
Pros
- Bright articulate tone
- Hammered shell complexity
- Glossy finish
- Black nickel hardware
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
The Tama S.L.P. Expressive Hammered is a newer entry to the series, and the hammered shell is what sets it apart from standard steel snares. Hammering adds a layer of complexity to the overtones, which means your backbeat sounds thicker without losing the steel crack. The glossy silver finish is gorgeous under stage lights.
I tested this at a rehearsal space and the 1.2mm shell responded well to medium-force playing. The 6-inch depth is a sweet spot for metal: deep enough for body, shallow enough for fast response. Black nickel hardware completes the premium look.
Since this is a newer model there aren’t yet customer reviews to lean on, but Tama’s S.L.P. line has a strong track record. If you’re looking for something outside the standard black or chrome snare finishes, this is worth checking out.
For whom it’s good
Drummers who want hammered shell complexity in a smaller package. Players looking for an alternative finish that stands out on stage. Anyone willing to take a chance on a newer Tama model.
For whom it’s bad
Players who only trust time-tested models with hundreds of reviews. Drummers who need a deep 8-inch shell. Anyone on a tight budget.
9. Sonor Kompressor Series Brass Snare Drum 6.5 x 14 – German-Engineered Brass
Sonor Kompressor Series Brass Snare Drum 6.5 x 14-inch – Polished
6.5x14 beaded brass shell
Center-mounted lugs
Triple-flanged hoops
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Great sound
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Center lug design
Cons
- Very limited stock
The Sonor Kompressor Series is built in Germany and it shows. The beaded brass shell is a 6.5×14 sweet spot, and the center-mounted lugs reduce shell contact for a more open resonance. Both reviewers gave it 5 stars and praised the construction.
I used this on a heavy rock session and the crack had serious weight. Sonor also backs the shell with a limited lifetime warranty, which is rare at this price. Hardware has a 5-year warranty and finishes get 1 year, so the brand clearly stands behind the build.
The only real catch is availability. Most retailers have only one or two in stock, and the $559 price puts it in premium territory. If you find one, snap it up. These Kompressor snares have a reputation among metal drummers for cutting through dense mixes without sounding harsh.
For whom it’s good
Drummers who want a center-lugged brass snare for more open resonance. Players who value German engineering and lifetime warranty protection. Anyone looking for a 6.5-inch depth that balances body and speed.
For whom it’s bad
Players who need deep 8-inch power. Budget-conscious shoppers. Drummers who need quick, easy local availability.
10. Yamaha RRS-1455 Recording Custom 14 x 5.5 Brass Snare Drum – Steve Gadd Collaboration
Yamaha RRS-1455 Recording Custom 14″ x 5.5″ Brass Snare Drum
14x5.5 brass shell
1.2mm shell
45-degree bearing edges
Pros
- Beautiful brass overtones
- Quality craftsmanship
- Dynamic sensitivity
- Versatile playing
Cons
- Stiff throw off
- Requires precise technique
Yamaha’s Recording Custom brass snare was designed in collaboration with Steve Gadd, one of the most respected session drummers in history. The 1.2mm brass shell and 45-degree bearing edges produce beautiful overtones and a wide dynamic range. Sixty-five percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars.
I tested this on a recording session for a progressive metal project and it tracked beautifully. The sensitivity to playing dynamics is the standout feature: ghost notes whisper, rimshots crack, and buzz rolls sit perfectly in the pocket. Yamaha’s one-piece lug design keeps tuning stable.
The throw-off is stiff out of the box, but loosens up with use. The high sensitivity also means sloppy technique gets exposed, so this is more of an intermediate-to-pro drum. It’s also Prime eligible, which makes shipping painless.
For whom it’s good
Metal drummers who want a session-quality snare for studio work. Players who prioritize dynamic range and sensitivity. Anyone who appreciates Steve Gadd’s design input.
For whom it’s bad
Beginners still developing technique. Players who need a snare that responds well to a hard, simple attack. Drummers who want a deep 8-inch shell.
11. Tama Starphonic Copper Snare Drum 7 x 14 – Premium Copper Voice
Tama Starphonic Copper Snare Drum – 7 Inches X 14 Inches
7x14 copper shell
1.2mm shell
Copper Freedom Lugs
Pros
- Exceptional craftsmanship
- Dark warm tone
- Versatile tuning range
- High SPL without choking
Cons
- Limited stock availability
The Tama Starphonic Copper is a true premium option. Copper shells are rare in metal drumming, but the 7×14 depth and 1.2mm thickness deliver a dark, warm tone that still cuts. Tama’s Freedom Lugs are also made of copper, adding to the unique sonic signature.
All four reviewers gave it 5 stars. One mentioned the high SPL capability without choking, which is exactly what you need when you push a big band mix. The satin brushed finish is gorgeous and the 2-year warranty offers peace of mind.
The only real issue is stock: most retailers have fewer than 10 in stock at any time. If you see one available, grab it before it disappears. At $749 this is firmly in the premium tier, but it competes with much more expensive boutique copper snares.
For whom it’s good
Metal drummers who want a darker, warmer alternative to steel and brass. Players who can afford a premium option and want something different from the Black Beauty. Drummers who appreciate copper’s unique harmonic complexity.
For whom it’s bad
Players on a budget. Drummers who need a bright, cutting steel crack. Anyone who can’t wait for restock.
12. Ludwig LB417 Black Beauty 6.5 x 14 Smooth Brass – The Iconic Choice
Ludwig LB417 Black Beauty 6.5″ x 14″ Smooth Brass Snare Drum with Imperial Lugs
6.5x14 seamless brass beaded shell
P-85 throw-off
Imperial lugs
Pros
- Iconic Ludwig sound
- Massive dynamic range
- Easy tuning
- Made in USA
- Versatile across genres
Cons
- Stock heads and wires are basic
- Throw-off feels dated
The Ludwig Black Beauty is the snare that defined the sound of rock and metal recordings. John Bonham used one. Questlove uses one. The seamless brass beaded shell produces a balanced, metallic-yet-warm tone that works in everything from doom to death metal. 100% of the 24 reviewers gave it 5 stars.
I played this snare at a recording session and it immediately felt like a lifetime instrument. The classic P-85 throw-off is smooth, the imperial lugs are rock solid, and the antique black anodized finish is gorgeous. At 12 pounds it has the mass to handle the heaviest hits without choking.
My main complaint is the stock heads and snare wires. For a $899 drum you should not need to upgrade the heads, but Ludwig still ships the Black Beauty with basic Remo Ambassadors. The throw-off is also a bit dated compared to modern designs, but it works perfectly fine.
For whom it’s good
Metal drummers who want the iconic Ludwig sound. Players who can afford a lifetime investment drum. Anyone who values Made in USA craftsmanship and a balanced, versatile tone.
For whom it’s bad
Players on a tight budget. Drummers who need a deep 8-inch shell for maximum thump. Anyone who hates swapping out stock heads.
What Makes a Great Snare Drum for Metal: Buying Guide
The best metal snare drums share a few core traits: high SPL, sharp attack, and the ability to handle fast blast beats without choking. Shell material matters most, then depth, then hardware quality. We’ve broken down the most important factors below so you can match a snare to your style of metal.
Shell material matters more than brand
Steel is the most common metal for good reason: it is bright, focused, and projects well. Brass adds warmth and harmonic complexity. Copper goes even darker, almost woody, but still cuts. For death metal and thrash, steel and brass dominate. For progressive metal and djent, brass or copper add the depth and complexity you want under busy guitar layers.
Depth controls power and speed
A 5-inch snare is fast and cracky, perfect for blast beats and punk rhythms. A 6.5-inch snare is the most versatile size, balancing response and body. An 8-inch snare is a beast: deep, loud, and powerful, but harder to control at fast tempos. For most metal styles, 6.5 to 8 inches is the sweet spot.
Hoops and hardware affect feel
Die-cast hoops give you a fatter rimshot and better tuning stability. Triple-flanged hoops are lighter, brighter, and respond faster. Both work for metal, but die-cast hoops are more popular for high-volume playing. Lug design matters too: center-mounted lugs let the shell resonate more freely, while traditional lugs add a touch of damping.
Shell Materials Compared: Steel vs Brass vs Copper vs Aluminum
Choosing between shell metals is the biggest decision you will make. Here is how the four main options stack up for metal drumming.
Steel is the workhorse. It produces a bright, focused crack with strong attack and minimal overtone. The Ludwig Supralite and Tama Metalworks are perfect examples: reliable, affordable, and great for tight rhythms. Steel works especially well in death metal where you want every hit to slice through the mix.
Brass is warmer and more complex. It produces a thicker fundamental with rich overtones, which is why the Black Beauty has been a recording standard for decades. The Pearl SensiTone Heritage Alloy and Yamaha Recording Custom deliver brass character at more accessible prices. For prog metal and djent, brass gives you the harmonic depth you want.
Copper is the rarest and darkest option. It produces a warm, almost woody tone that still cuts at high SPL. The Tama Starphonic Copper shows what copper can do: dark but defined, complex but focused. Copper works beautifully in doom, sludge, and atmospheric metal.
Aluminum is the lightest, brightest, and most articulate option. It is less common in metal because it lacks the body of steel or brass, but it is excellent for very fast, technical playing. If you see an aluminum snare you want for metal, pair it with a heavier head for body.
How to Tune a Metal Snare Drum for Blast Beats
Most metal drummers tune their snares higher than rock or fusion players, but the exact pitch depends on the style. For death metal, tune the top head in the range where the snare wires still respond cleanly. For thrash, go a bit higher for sharper attack. For doom and sludge, tune lower for that deep, chunky crack.
Start by tensioning the batter head evenly. Press the head in the center while tightening each lug a quarter turn at a time, working in a star pattern. Once you reach your target pitch, engage the snare wires and listen for buzz. If the wires choke the head, back off slightly.
For blast beats, I recommend the Evans Genera HD Dry or Remo Controlled Sound X. Both reduce overtones and increase attack, perfect for fast playing. Pair with a 20-strand snare wire set like PureSound or Gibraltar for maximum sensitivity.
Always tune by ear and your playing style. The “right” snare drum tuning is whatever feels and sounds best in your mix. A quick A/B test with your band’s guitars will tell you if you need more crack or more body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best snare drum for metal?
The best snare drum for metal is typically a deep steel, aluminum, or brass shell measuring 6.5 to 8 inches in depth, which provides the high volume, sharp attack, and strong projection needed to cut through heavy guitar amplification.
What is the best steel snare drum for death metal?
For death metal, a deep steel snare like the Ludwig 8×14 Supralite or Tama S.L.P. Big Black Steel delivers the loud crack and low-end body you need. Both produce sharp attack and project well through dense mixes.
Are metal snares better than wood?
Metal snares produce more crack, higher SPL, and sharper attack than wood, which is why most metal drummers prefer them. Wood snares can sound great for slower metal styles, but metal shells are the standard for fast blast beats and heavy riffs.
What are the best drumheads for metal?
The best drumheads for metal are the Evans Genera HD Dry, Evans Power Center, and Remo Controlled Sound X. All three reduce overtones, increase attack, and handle heavy rimshots without choking.
How deep should a snare drum be for metal?
For most metal styles, a snare depth of 6.5 to 8 inches is ideal. This range gives you enough body for low-end thump while keeping response fast enough for blast beats. Shallow 5-inch snares work for punk and faster tempos.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best metal snare drums comes down to your genre, budget, and tone preferences. After weeks of testing, our team landed on a few clear winners.
For the iconic metal sound, the Ludwig Black Beauty is unbeatable. It costs more, but you are paying for the seamless brass shell, the dynamic range, and the Made in USA quality. For budget players, the Ludwig 8×14 Supralite delivers 80% of the Black Beauty tone at less than a third of the price, and 153 reviewers agree with 4.8 stars.
If you want something modern with extra depth, the Tama S.L.P. Big Black Steel is a metal drummer favorite. For players who want brass character without Black Beauty prices, the Ludwig Universal Brass and Pearl SensiTone Heritage both deliver excellent value. And if you want a unique dark tone, the Tama Starphonic Copper is in a class of its own.
Whatever snare you pick, make sure to swap the stock heads for an Evans Genera HD Dry or Remo Controlled Sound X. That single upgrade will unlock the full potential of whichever metal snare drum you choose, and it is the fastest way to dial in the tone you want for metal.