US
Drum Workshop

DW Design Series 6.5x14" Snare Drum

  • Black nickel over brass beaded shell
  • Mini-turret lugs
  • MAG throw-off
  • True-Pitch tuning
  • 13 pounds, snare drum only

Updated 2 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A brass-shell snare in black nickel with beading, mini-turret lugs and a MAG throw-off, for drummers who want attack that cuts through a mix. The listing gives no warranty, head or wire details.

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ASIN: B0117CKQ8KModel: DDSD5514BNCRCategory: Snare Drums

Overview

A black nickel plated, beaded brass shell gives this snare its attack, and mini-turret lugs, a MAG throw-off and True-Pitch tuning complete the hardware.

The reason to buy is the brass shell, which the description says delivers attack plus musical overtones, along with DW's custom-style hardware. The limit is that heads, snare wires and warranty terms are not described.

Who it's for

A working drummer on stage or in the studio looking for attack and overtones from a brass shell. A player after a wood-shell sound should look at a different snare.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Beaded brass shell
  • Black nickel plating
Cons
  • Heads and snare wires not described
  • Warranty listed as not applicable
  • Snare only, no case or stand

Performance notes

The beaded brass shell delivers the attack and the musical overtones the description cites. The MAG throw-off engages and releases the snare wires, and True-Pitch tuning handles head tensioning.

Where it stands among snare drums

  • #8 most-searched brand and model of the 16 snare drums lines we track (by search demand, not sales).

From the specs of the 15 snare drums we list; not a test result.

Specifications

BrandDrum Workshop
ModelDDSD5514BNCR
Dimensions & fit
Size6.5 x 14 inches (title)
Dimensions14 x 14 x 5.5 inches
Weight13 pounds
Construction & materials
Finish TypeBlack Nickel
Body MaterialBrass
Shell detailBeaded
Included components
Included ComponentsSnare
Warranty & support
Warranty DescriptionN/a
Other details
Throw-offMAG
TuningTrue-Pitch Tuning
LugsMini-turret

Closest rivals on specs

Mapex MPX Maple/Poplar Hybrid Shell Snare Drum
  • Item Weight 13 vs 9.5 pounds (+37%)
Yamaha Recording Custom 14x6.5 Aluminum Snare Drum
  • Item Weight 13 vs 9.3 pounds (+40%)
Mapex MPX Maple/Poplar Hybrid Shell Snare Drum
  • Item Weight 13 vs 9.15 pounds (+42%)
Compare all side by side

Frequently asked questions

What size is the DW Design Series snare?

The title gives 6.5 x 14 inches. The dimensions field shows 14 x 14 x 5.5 inches, which likely reflects packaging, and the weight is 13 pounds.

What hardware does the DW Design Series snare have?

Mini-turret lugs, a MAG throw-off and True-Pitch tuning, per the description.

Is the DW Design Series snare a wood-shell drum?

No. The shell is brass with black nickel plating and beading.