Let’s take a Modern Drummer Product Close-Up look at the newest version of an iconic classic snare drum from yesteryear. But first, let’s take a quick look back in time. The Ludwig “Universal” Model Snare Drums were first introduced in 1924, and apart from the WW II years, stayed in production through the early 1950’s as a versatile and affordable drum product line. Bass drums were also part of the model line-up. The snare shells were originally offered in “all metal” (brass), and single ply solid Maple versions. Single ply solid mahogany shells were also available, but only on special order. By the end of the 1920’s, most wooden shells for Ludwig drums were starting to be made of 3-5 plies of wood, consisting of mostly mahogany and poplar woods. Some drums had maple reinforcement rings. The original shells were marketed as Aero-Kraft Construction and were touted as being built […]

February 2025 Issue