DW Exotic Snare Spotlight

Some of the Most Beautiful Snare Drums We've Ever Had in the Shop

One of the things that makes DW's Collector's Series special is that no two exotic drums are exactly alike. While the shell construction and performance are world-class, the exotic veneers turn these instruments into something far beyond a typical snare drum. Each wood species brings its own character, figuring, and visual personality, making every drum feel unique before you even strike the first note.

Over the last few months we've assembled one of the largest selections of DW Exotic snare drums we've had in the showroom at one time. If you've ever wanted to compare different DW exotic finishes side-by-side, now is the time to stop by.

Let's take a look at what's currently on display in the drum department.

African Chen Chen SonicPly

DW 14" x 6.5" Collector's Series SonicPly
Natural to Burnt Toast Fade

This drum immediately grabs your attention. The African Chen Chen veneer features dramatic grain patterns that become even more striking beneath DW's Natural to Burnt Toast Fade finish.

What makes this model particularly interesting is the SonicPly construction. DW developed SonicPly shells to combine the tonal benefits of multiple wood species into a single shell design, resulting in impressive projection, warmth, and sensitivity.

If you're looking for a drum that delivers premium Collector's Series performance while standing apart visually from anything else in the room, this one is hard to ignore.

Twisted Ivory Ebony

DW 14" x 6.5" SSC Maple Snare

Few exotic veneers make a statement like Twisted Ivory Ebony. The dramatic contrast between light and dark grain creates a naturally artistic appearance that almost looks painted by hand.

Built around DW's SSC Maple shell, this drum offers the focused attack, warmth, and versatility that have made Collector's Series maple snares a studio and stage favorite for decades.

This is the kind of drum that becomes the centerpiece of a collection.

Elm Burl

DW 14" x 6.5" SSC Maple Snare
Gloss Lacquer over Elm Burl

Elm Burl is famous for its swirling grain patterns and deep visual complexity. Every section of the veneer reveals something different, making it one of the most visually interesting woods DW offers.

Under gloss lacquer, the figuring seems to move as light hits the drum from different angles. It's a classic exotic finish that never goes out of style.

Smoked Figured Eucalyptus

DW 14" x 6.5" SSC Maple Snare

This finish brings a more modern aesthetic to the Collector's Series lineup. The smoked treatment enhances the figured eucalyptus veneer, creating a darker, more contemporary appearance while still allowing the natural grain to shine through.

For drummers who want something elegant without being flashy, this may be the sleeper of the group.

Vavona Burl

DW 14" x 6.5" SSC Maple Snare
Gloss Lacquer over Vavona

Vavona has long been one of DW's most sought-after exotic veneers. The dramatic burl patterns create incredible depth and texture throughout the shell.

It's the type of finish that rewards a closer look. Every inch reveals new detail, making it easy to see why collectors and DW enthusiasts are drawn to Vavona drums year after year.

Candy Stripe Paduk

DW 14" x 6.5" Collector's Series Exotic Snare
Natural to Royal Fade Burst

The name alone tells you what makes this drum special. Candy Stripe Paduk features vibrant natural striping that becomes even more eye-catching beneath DW's Natural to Royal Fade Burst finish.

This is one of those drums that people notice immediately from across the room. It combines bold visual character with the professional-level performance expected from the Collector's Series line.

Vertical Kurillian Birch

DW 14" x 6.5" Collector's Series Snare
Hard Satin Finish

For players who appreciate a more understated look, the Vertical Kurillian Birch may be the most refined drum in the lineup.

The vertical grain pattern creates a clean, elegant appearance, while the hard satin finish lets the natural beauty of the wood speak for itself. It's sophisticated, unique, and distinctly different from the high-gloss exotic finishes surrounding it.

Come See Them in Person

Photos can only tell part of the story with exotic DW drums. The figuring, depth, color shifts, and craftsmanship really have to be seen in person to be appreciated.

If you're a DW fan, a drum collector, or simply someone who appreciates incredible craftsmanship, stop by the drum showroom and spend some time with these snares. It's rare to have this many exotic Collector's Series models available at once, and even rarer to be able to compare them side-by-side.

We currently have all of these models on display (for now) in our drum department, and we'd love to show them to you.

Sometimes a snare drum is just a snare drum. Sometimes it's a piece of art that happens to sound incredible. These DW Exotics definitely fall into the second category.