Slingerland Solid Shell Radio King: A new Generation of Legendary Snare Drums
Six color variants and two shell sizes!
Slingerland Solid Shell Radio King: A new Generation of Legendary Snare Drums · Source: Slingerland
Slingerland has unveiled exciting additions to its iconic Solid Shell Radio King line: new solid-shell maple snare drums that build on the brand’s legendary jazz and studio heritage. These modern Maple Radio Kings blend classic Slingerland tone with updated materials and construction, offering drummers warmth, attack, and versatility in one timeless drum shell.
Slingerland is back!
Slingerland’s history dates back over a century to the early 1900s, when the company emerged as a leading American manufacturer of drums and percussion instruments. By the 1930s and 1940s, Slingerland had become synonymous with the rhythm sections of jazz and big bands, earning a reputation for its rich tone and reliable build quality.
Its Radio King snare drums, first introduced in the mid-20th century, quickly became favorites among studio and touring drummers thanks to their articulate response and musical character. Over the decades, the sound of the Radio King has been heard on countless recordings and stages, spanning genres from swing and bebop to rock and pop.
Their classic metal shells, particularly those of the original Radio King Black Glass and Radio King Brass models, produced a unique, percussive sound that studio engineers fell in love with.
The New Solid Shell Radio King Snares
The Solid Shell Radio Kind snares’ basis remains their classic steam-bent, single-ply shell. First introduced in the 1930s, it established the company’s legendary reputation. As for shell sizes, these snare drums are available in 14” x 5.5” and 14” x 7”.
Unlike regular Radio King models, the Solid Shell Radio King snares do not come with a three-ply mahogany and poplar shell. Instead, they are based on a solid North American maple shell. According to Slingerland, their new 30-degree bearing edge gives these drums a rich, ‘buttery’ feel and excellent projection.
Stick Chopper Hoops and a 3-Point Strainer
The new Solid Shell Radio King snares also come equipped with engraved nickel-over-steel ‘Stick Chopper’ hoops. Additionally, as the other Artist Radio King snares, they also have an internal damper. And a particular highlight is the exact replica of the 3-point strainer.
Another noteworthy feature is the extra-long snare wire, which runs over snare gates and can be adjusted to provide a range of snare tensions, from very loose to sensitive and precise.
The drums feature nickel-plated hardware throughout and are currently available in six vintage-inspired Duco lacquer and foil finishes. New additions to the foil range are ‘Maroon Glass’ and ‘Gold Glass’.
Price and Availability
These new snares are priced between 1,349 euros and 1,489 euros at Thomann*. You can order one now, they’ll be available in four to five weeks.
More on the new Solid Shell Radio King snare drums from Slingerland
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