To many, Ludwig is the most recognizable name in percussion purely because of one drum – the legendary Black Beauty Snare Drum.

The 1.2mm brass shell is machine drawn and spun into a seamless beaded drum before being finished with gorgeous black nickel plating. The shell speaks with an unmistakable round metallic tone. Tune it up high for a clean, piercing crack. Tune it loose and low for a fat, swampy backbeat.

This particular Black Beauty has a slightly warmer, more controlled tone thanks to a skillfully hammered 14x5 shell, rounded out by 2.3mm flanged hoops, Imperial lugs and the P88AC throw off. This is one investment that is a no-brainer for the working drummer.