How does the pork pie big black compare to the authentic Ludwig black beauty snare drum?

Question

I am looking at some snare drums, and I like the Ludwig black beauty snare, but at the music store, a guy showed me the pork pie big black snare, and said it compared very well, at a third the price. What do you think about these two snares?

Answer 1

I know a drummer who uses a Black Beauty. It is a step up from the snare that we have stock in our church kit, and it does sit well in the mix - it comes through well even when he's not thwacking on it. The overall timbre is pleasing.



From the reviews that I've read, the Pork Pie sounds legit. Both are brass, so if you're looking for a brass snare then that's going to put you in the ballpark. While that drummer isn't nearby for me to ask, personally I would go for the Pork Pie. I can't see spending over 500$ for a snare... any snare. That's money better spent on cymbals or on decent heads, as far as I'm concerned.



I run sound, so I'm more concerned with the overall picture rather than the specific advantages of one snare over another, but unless you can easily afford the Black Beauty, I'd go for the Pork Pie and use the extra money to upgrade other parts of your kit.... some nice Zildjians, for instance!

Answer 2

Pork Pie Big Black

Answer 3

Saul gave you some great advice. But before you get completely hung up on the Black Beauty OR the Pork Pie clone, look around for a vintage chrome-over-brass Rogers Dyna-Sonic that is complete and original with the snare frame. In 50 years as a pro drummer the Dyna-Sonic is the best snare drum I have ever owned and played, and the one I purchased new in 1970 is still the primary snare drum in my setup.



Once you learn how to properly use the Dyna-Sonic's unique snare and frame setup you'll love the drum.