My first real pro snare drum was a 1973 Ludwig Super Sensitive 5 x 14 chrome over steel model. At first I didn’t really like how sensitive it was, as it was too sensitive for my technique at that time. I didn’t know what ghost notes were back then nor did I understand the difference between how standard snare wires and super sensitive snare wires are attached to the drum.
At that time, I needed a snare drum that was more forgiving so I purchased a Ludwig 6.5 x 14 Supraphonic snare, loosened the strainer and thought I was good to go. When I listened back to the tapes we had recorded, my snare drum sounded like a tom tom with no snares.
Once I brought out my Stick Control book and started learning rudiments I understood the importance of ghost notes. Now I wanted to play my Ludwig Super Sensitive so I could hear the ghost notes that I had learned to play. That kick-started my collection of Super Ludwig snares and I now own 7 from the 20s & 30s that are pictured in this article.
The 1st Generation of Super Ludwigs were made from 1925 – 1935 and they made 5 different sizes. There are 4”, 5” and 6.5” x 14” and 15” widths. I have five (5) 5 x 14 and two (2) 6.5 x 14 drums. I own an Ornamental model, one that is finished in white enamel, one that is just brass and 4 of them that are nickel over brass finish. The nickel over brass includes a 1930s Silver Anniversary model which has a spun shell that is even heavier in weight than the 6 from the 1920s.
Next month I will highlight my Super Ludwig 2nd Generation collection from the late 1950s to the early 1960’s.
Danny Bilan
Our Man in Canada