Mapex Black Panther Machete Snare Drum  

Let me just preface this review by saying I am NOT a fan of production line drums, be it snares or full kits.  That mentioned, this is one heck of a snare drum. I was in a pinch so I picked up this bad boy and it is screaming quality.  Other reviews I have heard/seen mention the surreal volume of this drum.  As an owner of several versions of the now out of production TRICK KODIAK SNARE DRUMS, I would venture to say they have this one beat volume wise.  BUT, upon swithcing out the top triple flanged hoop (referred to as a "Sonic Saver" but it's no S-Hoop for sure)to a Noble and Cooley die cast, the drum came alive LOUD.  It is now on par with the Tricks.  What I like even better about it than the Trick (aluminum)is the steel shell.  Steel often gets a bad rep because they are included on many entry level drum sets.  The problem is, this metal is perhaps the most versatile of all materials and I believe Mapex realizes this with their new line of Panthers.  Don't get caught up in snare drum snobbery, steel is an AMAZING shell material for snare drums.  Aluminum is a great "soft" metal, allowing for nice pop and crack on rimshots and amazing sensitivity.  HOWEVER, that same sensitivity is EXTREMELY dry and depending on the sticking, can suck the life out of the personality of the shell.  I prefer a loud dry crack up top with crisp, bright sensitivity below.  Aluminum and brass have a crisp, dark sensitivity on the resonant head and I just wanted more spirit in my sound.  I've recorded with many snare drums and steel by far has produced the best results.  Moreover, I've never been more complimented live on my sound then I was with and old Yamaha 6.5 steel shell.  It sounds different out front then it does to your ears playing it.  I fell into the snobbery many times on steel, even opting to sell a ss Dunnett and that Yamaha in favor of an extensive aluminum line but I'm back.  Steel, with all it's inherent qualities nails it down perfect.  This drum is epuipped with a beautiful dual adjustable strainer which I love.  I can get this thing to speak on ghost notes at the lowest of volumes.  Great drum.  I have yet to gig with it but I already know what it going to happen....it will produce and then some. 

I have always loved Black Panthers, they are fantastic drums, I couldent think of anything they could do to make them better!! Then this all new Panter series hits the market, I orderded one right away from the only place that had on in stock, just had to have it fast! This is an amazing drum, amazing, it is so very loud but inb a sweet way! The new throwoff is as smooth as silk and the butt end is also adjustable as the old models were but now it has click stops for each adjustment, just an amazing feature But the best part of this drum in my opinion is the New hoops! The curve in towards the drum not out like most other steel shell drums, this makes for a wicked rimshot that will have you jump out of your pants! I have played, Tama steel, Pearl steel, Ludwig you name it, but this is the best sounding steel snare drum I have ever played its just PERFECT, There isnt one tghing about this drum that could have been done better, it is a huge improvement over the old which are still great drums, And Mapex managed to do this at a stunning price poiny for these drums! If You want the best Steel snare drum money can but that will be the last snare drum you will ever use, then this is it, it is versatile enough for everything from Jazz to metal and has amazing sensitivety, wow I am just floored at this drum, I dont care what price any other drum is This ne Black panther sets the bar so very high...It is the best steel drum anywhere in My opinion, Get one and see for yourself! AWESOME!