The 14" x 5-1/2" steel shell of the Kabuto snare drum from Yamaha has a bright tone that cuts through loud music, and great sensitivity to respond to the lightest touch. The baked on "tomato soup" finish gives this snare drum a look that catches your eye. This finish warms up the tone of the drum to give it body and depth, making this a versatile drum that works for any musical style. The Kabuto's 1.8mm snare bed is the optimum depth for maximum sensitivity and a wide range of snare tension settings. You can tighten them for a bright, crisp sound or play them loose for a wet, funky sound. The 1.6mm hoops are rigid enough for accurate tuning; yet light enough to let the drum's tone open up. The 8-lug design means there is less metal on the shell, further allowing the shell to vibrate for resonance and a wide dynamic response.