D-506 vs D-456... what are the differences in the sound...?

[Scott_M]

I'm considering picking up a D-506, but I already have a D-456. Part of the "pre-purchase research" has me looking closely at both models, and I'm really only seeing 5 differences between the two.

This has me very curious how much of an effect those differences have on the sound when comparing the two with similar heads, tuning, snare wires, etc.

Assuming the triple-flanged hoops on both, here's the things I've observed (so far) the D-506 has that the D-456 doesn't:[/list]

• Seamless shell - though some early D-456's appear to have a seamless shell...

• 10 Lugs (D-506) vs 8 lugs (D-456)

• Adjustable snare butt

• Flanged (D-506) vs rolled (D-456) bearing edges

• Snap locks

So sonically - what have people observed as far as a difference between the two?

Anyone done a side-by-side comparison before, and what were your observations?

[krusher74]

I dont have personal experience comparing them, but I think the differences are functional rather than sonic.

Sonor were not very good at cutting corners for cheaper lines and I think due to that some of their lower lines that can be bought cheaper sound every bit as good as the more expensive drums.

The 8 lug may have a slightly more open sound with more overtone.

I think you will end up with two dru with very little sound difference unless you fit different heads and tune them differently. If you have use for that its a win.
But if like me you like all your drums at a similar tunning you will prefer one slightly and then have one collecting dust or needing to be sold.

if the 8 lug detunes on you and is problem, the 10 lug will stop that.

[SonorBart]

I've never played a D-456, but would guess it sounds somewhat different due to the edges and number of lugs. I've had two D-506s and really liked them. They have a "density" to their sound that I haven't found in other snares. The only reason I don't still have one is that I'm making a conscious effort to thin my snare drum herd and my 6.5 deep Ludwig hammered bronze and 6.5 deep aluminum 8 lug Frankenstein "Acrophonic" build cover my metal snare bases.

[Scott_M]

IThe 8 lug may have a slightly more open sound with more overtone.

I think you will end up with two dru with very little sound difference unless you fit different heads and tune them differently. If you have use for that its a win.
But if like me you like all your drums at a similar tunning you will prefer one slightly and then have one collecting dust or needing to be sold.

if the 8 lug detunes on you and is problem, the 10 lug will stop that.

I'm intentionaly rotating through my snares to see which ones I prefer for certain things and with which kit(s). The D-456 seems to fit very well with both the Phonic and Perfomer kits, which is why I was thinking about the D-506 (that and "Faux-OCD" about having the matching snare for the kit thing...).

I've never played a D-456, but would guess it sounds somewhat different due to the edges and number of lugs.

I have a 5x15 Steel Prolite, and when I tune that and the D-456 up the same (checked with a TuneBot), it's very clear they're related as the have a similar quality to the sound, but still have distinct personalities. Side by side, the D-456 has a little more "body" and focus to the sound, while the Prolite is a little more open and more crisp/articulate. Most of that I think is likely due to the differences in the bearing edges (flanged vs rolled) and the depth, which is what has me wondering about the D-506. That would mostly come down to the bearing edge and the affect the additional 2 lugs might have...

[Wayne]

Might be listing my D-506 soon if you are interested