Horst Link, grandson of Sonor’s founder Johannes Link, played a pivotal role in the company’s evolution and the creation of the renowned Sonor Signature Series drums. If you are a Sonor nerd, check out my other Blog Posts about > Sonor Drums from the 1920`s < and the Sonor Company.
Horst Link’s Leadership and Vision
After World War II, the original Sonor factory in Weissenfels fell under Soviet control, leading to its expropriation. In 1946, Horst Link reestablished the company in West Germany, initially focusing on drumhead production. By 1950, his father, Otto Link, joined him after a daring escape from East Germany. Under Horst’s leadership, Sonor expanded its product range and reestablished its reputation for quality percussion instruments.
Introduction of the Signature Series
In 1982, Sonor introduced the Signature Series, reflecting Horst Link’s commitment to innovation and excellence. These drums featured 12-ply beech shells with cross-laminated plies for enhanced stability. They were available with African Bubinga or Indonesian Ebony finishes, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
Legacy and Impact
The Signature Series set new standards in drum manufacturing and remains highly regarded among drummers and collectors. Horst Link’s vision and dedication not only revitalized Sonor post-war but also cemented its position as a leader in the percussion industry.
Today, Sonor continues to build on this legacy, producing instruments that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, a testament to Horst Link’s enduring influence.
In 1987, Sonor introduced the HLD 590, an 8″ x 14″ snare drum featuring a 3mm cast bronze shell with 2mm reinforcement rings, totaling a 5mm thickness at the edges. This design provided exceptional resonance and projection, making it one of the most sought-after snare drums.
To commemorate its 150th anniversary, Sonor released a limited edition replica of the HLD 590, maintaining the original’s shell construction and enhancing it with 24-carat gold-plated hardware. This edition is limited to 100 pieces worldwide.
The Artist Series also includes a 6″ x 14″ cast bronze snare drum, featuring a 3mm shell with 2mm reinforcement rings, 45-degree bearing edges, and black chrome hardware. This model offers optimal resonance and full projection, making it ideal for music requiring a sharp, loud, and powerful snare.
Bronze drum shells, particularly those used in the Sonor Bell Bronze Signature Snare, have distinct characteristics that make them highly sought after by drummers. Here are some key attributes:
1. Sonic Characteristics
- Loud & Powerful – Bronze has a high density, giving it exceptional volume and projection. It cuts through mixes, making it ideal for rock, metal, and orchestral settings.
- Bright Yet Warm – Unlike brass, which is typically very bright, bronze offers a unique blend of warmth and crisp attack.
- Sensitive & Dynamic – Despite its power, a well-crafted bronze shell retains great sensitivity, responding well to soft ghost notes as well as hard rimshots.
2. Durability & Build
- Extremely Durable – Bronze is a dense metal, often used in cymbals and bells, making it highly resistant to wear and tear.
- Heavyweight – A cast bronze snare, like the Sonor HLD 590 Bell Bronze, is much heavier than steel or aluminum snares, adding to its sustain and depth.
3. Unique Overtones & Sustain
- Long Sustain – Due to its density, bronze drums tend to have a long, musical sustain, making them sound more open and full.
- Rich Overtones – While bronze drums can have complex overtones, their cross-laminated bearing edges and reinforcement rings help control and focus the tone.
Why Drummers Love the Sonor Bell Bronze Snare
The Sonor Bell Bronze Signature Snare, especially the HLD 590, is one of the most legendary metal snares ever produced. Its 3mm cast bronze shell with 2mm reinforcement rings delivers unparalleled projection, tone, and durability, making it a holy grail for many drummers.
