Search
Register
Only Admins can see this message.
Data Transition still in progress. Some functionality may be limited until the process is complete.
Processing Attachment, Gallery - 174.15449%

Black Beauty Bronze or Brass? (& apologies)

Posts: 128 Threads: 32

Dear VDF folk,

The apologies are for this being yet another post on this topic. Believe me, I've read them all, but still, nothing definitive to help on this one.

Recent acquisition: (assuming) late 80s BB with Monroe badge, serial 3254143. Weight: 4.5kg/9.45lbs. chrome-faced throw. I know Ludwig used Bronze (or their version of it) from 88-91.

We all know of the dating chart for 60s and 70s drums. What about 80s Chicago and Monroe beyond that? I wouldn't be posting this otherwise.

I've never owned a Black Beauty, but the last one I played, was, well, bright and brassy. This one is focussed, woody, and fat, which are characteristics of which Ludwig Dude has previously posted as being common to Bronze snare drums.

Below are two links to video demos of my Premier Modern Classic Nickel-plated, Hammered Brass 14x7, then my 'bronze' Black Beauty. I can hear differences, but let me know what you're hearing. I play a variety of grooves and use different tunings and gel application. Hope you enjoy.

Photo identifiers of BBB below.

Thanks for reading!

Premier Hammered Brass:

http://gallery.me.com/barnabygold#100064

Ludwig 'Bronze' Black Beauty:

http://gallery.me.com/barnabygold/100073

Posted on 14 years ago
#1
Posts: 128 Threads: 32

Another quirk to this drum (that I've also heard is common of this era), is the ill-fitting imperial lugs against the bead AND shell. The photos show the bad fit on the Black Beauty versus the seamless fit on my 14x6.5 Supra from 1967.

All said, this BBB sounds awesome. I could use it for anything. I love the woodiness of it. Even when cranked, it has no harsh ring. Very strong, punchy with warmth and sensitivity.

Funny thing I discovered on receiving it - previous owner had packed the lugs with extra thick foam to perhaps dampen the top end. It just doesn't need it!

2 attachments
IMG_1888.jpg
16.7 kB
IMG_1886.jpg
17.8 kB
Posted on 14 years ago
#2
Posts: 128 Threads: 32

Here's a very similar looking Black Beauty on eBay. I can't see the badge, but it has an identical 'B' stamped above the muffler holes.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Ludwig-Black-Beauty-Snare-Drum-6-5X14-Circa-1982-/330557472089?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4cf6c2bd59#ht_500wt_1156

Posted on 14 years ago
#3
Posts: 1311 Threads: 9

The reason for the bad fitting lugs is that Ludwig started making the shells slightly smaller in later drums,but I'm not shure of the year.

As far as brass or bronze,it sounds like a bronze drum from your discription.Check above the muffler knob for a stamp.Some drums were stamped B for brass or bronze,and BZ for bronze,also check the inside of the shell for any other markings.

Steve B

Posted on 14 years ago
#4
Posts: 128 Threads: 32

It is stamped with a B, like the BB in the eBay listing in my last post. That appears to be the most confusing aspect of snares from this period.

From Ludwig Dude's description of sonic differences between brass and bronze shells, I'm still going with bronze, but I'd still like to nail the year of production.

Can anyone provide a serial number range for drums produced during the 1988-1991 period?

Posted on 14 years ago
#5
Posts: 128 Threads: 32

What other markings could be inside the shell to indicate metal type?

Posted on 14 years ago
#6
Posts: 6524 Threads: 37

That lug fit on the BB is un-acceptable !!

What part of quality drum does that fit into ??

It`s a drum,.....Hit It !!

.....76/#XK9207 Phonic Sound Machine D454/D-505 snares !i
Posted on 14 years ago
#7
Posts: 811 Threads: 9

From Loopagator

Funny thing I discovered on receiving it - previous owner had packed the lugs with extra thick foam to perhaps dampen the top end. It just doesn't need it!

The packing is to stop the lug (spring) rattle.

Posted on 14 years ago
#8
Posts: 128 Threads: 32

From Hoppy

The packing is to stop the lug (spring) rattle.

I'm aware that this is a common technique for reducing spring rattle. I need to do that on my 60s Ludwigs. However, these lugs had springs that were already foam-lined. The previous owner added foam on the opposite side, against the shell. Overkill and unnecessary. This is an 80s drum, not 60s.

Posted on 14 years ago
#9
Posts: 6524 Threads: 37

Yes but your 60`s lug fit better !!

It`s a drum,.....Hit It !!

.....76/#XK9207 Phonic Sound Machine D454/D-505 snares !i
Posted on 14 years ago
#10
  • Share
  • Report
Action Another action
Something else here