Every so often, Ludwig releases a snare that marks a true moment in its history—and the Raw Striped Bronze Phonic is one of them. Forged from a seamless bronze shell and finished with hand-sanded striping under a thin lacquer coat, it pairs unmistakable tonal character with a look that’s unique to every drum. Limited to just 100 units worldwide, it features die-cast hoops, a P88 throw-off and “Vintage ’63” snare wires, all designed to deliver the focus, punch and expressive nuance that define Ludwig’s metal snares. More than a collector piece, it’s a studio- and stage-ready instrument crafted to stand with the finest offerings in the Phonic lineage.

Seamless Ludwig Bronze Shells Produce Legendary Tone

Bronze has long been considered the most musical of snare metals, and Ludwig puts that heritage front and center here. The seamless 14" x 6.5" beaded bronze shell delivers a balanced profile—warm mids, a crisp stick response and top-end bite that sits naturally in any mix. Whether played softly in the studio or driven hard on stage, it projects with clarity and power. The protective lacquer is intentionally thin, guarding the shell without choking resonance, so the drum speaks freely with every strike. It’s the lively, expressive tone that has made Ludwig bronze snares a go-to for professionals for decades.

Handcrafted Striped Finish Makes Every Drum One of a Kind

Each Raw Striped Bronze Phonic shell begins as uncoated bronze before Ludwig’s artisans shape its identity. Stripes are sanded directly into the metal, exposing raw highlights beneath the lacquer and creating subtle contrast across the shell. Once sealed, the finish preserves the bronze’s natural glow while guarding against wear and oxidation. No two drums share the same pattern, making every unit a unique expression of the maker’s craft. Beyond its visuals, the open treatment allows the shell to resonate fully, adding a touch of vintage character to a modern build.

Premium Hardware Carries Ludwig’s Historic Feel

Ludwig’s hardware precision is as much a part of its legacy as its shells, and this model continues that standard. Die-cast hoops tighten focus and deliver sharp rimshots, while the P88 throw-off engages smoothly with reliable tension control. Paired with “Vintage ’63” 18-strand wires, the snare responds with crisp articulation at any dynamic. The result is a drum that feels controlled yet expressive, marrying old-world engineering with modern reliability. Limited to just 100 units, the Raw Striped Bronze Phonic stands as a testament to Ludwig’s role in shaping the sound of drumming—past, present and future.