Gretsch’s new wood/metal batter hoop takes the concept of contoured wood hoops one-step further. Featuring a 10- ply all-maple shell with 30-degree bearing edges, both the batter and resonant wood hoops are contoured to enhance the fundamentally warm wood tones. The contoured hoops emit a naturally open tone. The batter hoop also features a flanged metal hoop is firmly affixed inside the wood hoop. The top of the metal hoop extends slightly above the wood hoop. When striking rim shot or rim clicks, metallic tones naturally blend with warm wood tones. The metal hoop also adds an extra measure of durability. The resonant-side contoured wood hoop is made without the flanged metal insert.

Both S-6514WMH and S-6514WH resonant-side hoops have notches at the throw-off and butt plate positions to allow the throw-off mechanism to fully engage and disengage with ease. The batter side hoop is also notched to allow easy access to the throw-off lever. The throw-off is a new Gretsch drop-style that augments the functionality and visual appeal of this snare drum.