Slingerland Radio King Artist Snare Drum 14 x 6.5 in. Black Diamond Pearl

It's a sound that inspired generations of drummers—the vintage warmth, rich tonality and crisp response that are all so unmistakably Slingerland. Now, that iconic voice sings again in the Slingerland Radio King Artist snare drum. Born in Chicago in the 1920s, and immortalized by legends like Gene Krupa, Slingerland helped define the sound of big band, jazz and rock for decades. After years of silence, the Radio King returns—handcrafted in Oxnard, California, with the same uncompromising artistry that made it a staple in studios and stages worldwide. Featuring a three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shell with 100% maple re-rings, nickel-plated hardware and the retooled Zoomatic throw-off, this snare delivers punchy attack, buttery feel and warm resonance in a stage-ready package. It's a timeless icon, reborn for a new generation.

Classic Three-Ply Shell for Signature Warmth

At the heart of the Radio King Artist snare lies a three-ply mahogany/poplar/mahogany shell. This construction produces a warm, full-bodied tone with a naturally rich low end and smooth, articulate highs. The addition of a 100% maple re-ring ensures structural stability and enhances projection, while the 30-degree bearing edge provides a balanced blend of snap and sustain. Whether you're playing brushes in a quiet jazz combo or laying down a backbeat for arena rock, the shell's organic warmth and versatility make it a powerful creative tool for any drummer's kit.

Reengineered Zoomatic Throw-Off for Smooth Performance

The Radio King Artist snare features the newly retooled Zoomatic throw-off—a faithful nod to the original but built with modern precision. The lever-and-knob mechanism allows quick, smooth adjustments to snare tension without interrupting your playing flow. Nickel plating not only protects the hardware but also adds a touch of vintage class, perfectly complementing the drum's heritage styling. Paired with a robust internal mechanism, the Zoomatic ensures consistent response and reliability whether you're recording, rehearsing or performing live. It's a thoughtful update that maintains the spirit of the classic while delivering the dependability today's drummers demand.

Stick Saver Hoops and Streamline Lugs for Optimal Playability

True to Slingerland tradition, the Radio King Artist snare is fitted with Stick Saver Hoops—rolled inward to preserve stick life while enhancing rimshot clarity and cross-stick tone. These hoops, combined with the streamlined, art-deco-inspired lugs, offer a distinctive aesthetic while ensuring precise head tuning and stability. The lugs' minimal contact with the shell allows for greater resonance, preserving the drum's open, musical character. It's a build approach that blends functional performance with visual appeal, reinforcing the snare's place as both a player's instrument and a collector's piece.

Own a Piece of American Drum History With the Radio King Artist Snare

The Slingerland Radio King Artist snare drum isn't just another snare—it's an heirloom instrument that bridges past and present. With its warm, commanding tone, timeless design and modern refinements, it's equally at home in the studio, on stage or in a private collection. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Slingerland or discovering the brand for the first time, this snare offers the chance to experience a sound and feel that has shaped music for nearly a century. Bring the legend into your setup and be part of the next chapter in American drum history.