Pearl Session Studio Select 14X5.5 Scarlet Ash

Key Features of the Session Studio Select 14 x 5.5 Scarlet Ash Snare Drum

• Hybrid birch and African mahogany shell in 6 plies (5.4 mm): balance between sharp attack, warmth, and present lows.
• 14 x 5.5 format versatility: perfect for both studio and stage, with a wide tuning range.
• Chrome hardware and dedicated components (SR-017 trigger, S-022N snare) for precise and consistent snare response.
• SuperHoop II hoops : solid rimshots, better tuning stability, and a firmer playing feel.

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

The Session Studio Select snare drum is designed with a "studio-ready" approach: to offer a wooden instrument with controlled sound, easy to place in a mix, while retaining true acoustic character. Its Scarlet Ash finish gives it a strong visual identity, and its hybrid shell aims for a modern compromise between projection, musicality, and versatility, especially sought after in recording contexts.

Who This Drum is For

This snare is aimed at the intermediate to advanced drummer looking for a 14 x 5.5 capable of covering many situations without excessive adjustments. It excels in pop, rock, funk, fusion, gospel, and contemporary music, with a response that is snappy enough for ghost notes and full-bodied enough for strong backbeats. Whether in rehearsal or live, it remains clear and stable even as volume increases.

Features and Innovations

The 6-ply construction (5.4 mm shell) favors controlled vibration, simplifying tuning and limiting overly intrusive harmonics. The SR-017 trigger ensures progressive and reliable snare engagement, useful for quickly switching from a dry, precise sound to a more open snare tone. The CL-55 lugs (14 x 5.5 models) and T-061L tension rods contribute to even tension, providing a more consistent tuning feel at each lug.

Sound

Birch delivers a crisp attack, clear definition, and direct projection, highly appreciated for clean hits and a sound that "cuts" immediately. African mahogany complements with natural warmth, generous mids, and a rounder low end, adding weight to the backbeat without dulling the snare.

With its 5.5 depth, this Session Studio Select sits at the heart of versatility: enough body for rock and enough responsiveness for dynamic playing. The SuperHoop II hoops promote a more focused rimshot and better tuning stability, while maintaining a musical response when playing on the hoop. The S-022N snare supports clear articulation, with sensitivity adapted to nuances and ghost notes, particularly useful in the studio.

Technical specifications

Category	wood	Diameter	14 "
Material	mahogany, birch	Depth	5.5 "
Design	6-ply	Color	Red
Circle type	pressed	Colours	Scarlet Ash
Trigger	SR-017	Hardware	Chromed
Stamp	S-022N

Construction	6 plies	Tension rods	T-061L
Hoops	stamped	Snare	S-022N
Lugs	CL-55 (14 x 5.5 models)