The Black Beauty features a spun, seamless, beaded brass shell with black-nickel chrome plating. This stunning shell lays the groundwork for the rest of the drum. It delivers a sharp, biting sound with crisp ghost notes, an unbelievably pronounced rim-shot, and an overall clearancy and projection that can’t be matched. It’s amazingly warm for a metal snare with an open, full-bodied attack. This drum also features triple-flanged hoops, imperial lugs, a P-85 throw-off, and a cast butt-plate.

A Snare Drum With History:
On February 12, 1924 Paul Whiteman conducted the first performance of “Rhapsody in Blue” in New York’s Aeolian Hall. At first chair of the percussive section was George Marsh and his Ludwig black nickel chrome finished snare drum. Whiteman later christened this drum the “Black Beauty” for it’s stunning looks and unsurpassed sound. That night a legend was born. For decades these drum were custom order by players all over the world. Fifty three years later in 1977 Ludwig made these drums available to the public. Since that time they have been used on countless recordings, gigs, and become every drummer’s object of desire.

Imperial Style Lugs:
The Imperial lugs give this drum a classy look while not adding additional weight to the shell, allowing it to resonate freely.

Triple-flange Hoops:
A lot livelier than their die-cast counterparts. These hoops help give the drum a more vibrant, open sound that gives it plenty of power when struck dead center and tons of articulation for ghost notes. Though they may not be as heavy as die-cast hoops, they certainly still deliver a sharp rim shot, crystal clear side stick, and reliable tuning.

P-85 Strainer:
The P-85 is the classic Ludwig throw-off everyone has come to know and love. Since it’s introduction in mid 60’s this throw-off has become the yardstick to which all other throw offs are measured. This thing is easily adjustable and provides precise and accurate snare tension. The cast butt-plate is super reliable and provides solid playability.