The Ludwig 400 metal snare was first launched in 1959 and is still available today, known for bright crispness that cuts through yet with a warm sound. It features on legendary recordings from rock to jazz. Ringo Starr was a leading player and was even given a 14 carat gold-plated version. The more usual versions come in chrome or chrome over brass, and they are sought after second hand too. James Brown’s drummer Clyde Stubblefield is another well-known user, whose drum patterns have been widely sampled.