Pearl Omar Hakim Signature 13x5 Mahogany Snare Drum

The Pearl Omar Hakim Signature 13x5 Mahogany Snare Drum combines a compact diameter with a surprisingly full, powerful voice. Developed in collaboration with groove drumming legend Omar Hakim, this signature model features a 6-ply African mahogany shell designed to produce warmth, projection, sensitivity, and rich tonal color.

Pearl refers to this configuration as a power piccolo design. The reduced 13-inch diameter gives the drum a fast, articulate response, while the 5-inch depth adds more body and low-end presence than a traditional piccolo snare. The result is a versatile instrument that delivers crisp articulation without sounding thin or overly sharp. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

African Mahogany Shell

The 6-ply African mahogany shell provides a warm fundamental with a darker, rounded tonal character. Mahogany helps soften the sharper edges of the attack while retaining enough projection for live performance and studio recording. The drum responds clearly to ghost notes, accents, and detailed sticking, making it especially well suited for expressive, groove-focused playing.

At medium and higher tunings, the snare produces a crisp, focused crack with excellent definition. Lower tunings bring out more body and depth, giving the drum a thick backbeat that feels much larger than its compact dimensions suggest.

Professional Pearl Hardware

The Omar Hakim Signature Snare is equipped with CL-55 minimum-contact lugs, which reduce unnecessary contact with the shell while providing dependable tuning stability. Pearl SuperHoop II hoops give the drum a solid, responsive feel and add definition to rimshots and cross-stick patterns.

Precision-fit tension rods and solid brass swivel nuts help provide smooth tuning across the drum. The vertical-pull strainer offers reliable snare engagement and straightforward adjustment for consistent performance in rehearsals, recording sessions, and live settings.

Sound & Playing Feel

This drum delivers a warm, dry, and focused sound with a quick response under the stick. The 13-inch diameter makes the playing surface feel compact and immediate, while the mahogany shell adds richness and depth behind each note.

Ghost notes remain articulate at lower dynamics, while rimshots produce a strong, cutting crack that can speak clearly through a full band. Its combination of sensitivity, warmth, and projection makes it suitable for funk, fusion, pop, jazz, R&B, worship, and studio work.

Applications & Use Cases

• Excellent for funk and fusion players who need crisp ghost-note response and a defined backbeat
• Well suited for recording sessions where a warm, focused snare sound needs to sit naturally in the mix
• A strong primary snare for players who prefer a compact diameter without sacrificing body
• Useful as an alternate snare for adding a darker, warmer contrast to metal-shell drums
• Ideal for Pearl enthusiasts and drummers inspired by Omar Hakim's expressive, groove-centered playing

Why Choose West Coast Drum Shop?

West Coast Drum Shop specializes in drums, cymbals, percussion, and professional guidance for players at every level. Our experienced staff can help with tuning, head selection, snare wire setup, and finding the right instrument for your playing style.

Whether you are shopping locally in Bellevue or ordering from elsewhere in the country, your drum will be carefully inspected and securely packed before shipment.

Learn more on the official Pearl Omar Hakim Signature Snare page.