Drumming News
1875—what a time that was. No TikTok, no streaming, just pure craftsmanship. But in the heart of Weißenfels, Germany, Sonor was already making waves. Founded by Johannes Link, the company initially crafted drums for military purposes, but by the early 1900s, Sonor expanded into a wide range of percussion instruments.
Fast forward to 2025, and Sonor is celebrating its 150th anniversary. To honor this milestone, they’re releasing special editions of their Signature and Sonorlite drum sets, plus a stunning 14″x08″ cast bronze snare that pays homage to their iconic past.
Sonor’s journey through history saw them relocate to West Germany after WWII, with the Link family continuing to lead the way. By the 1950s, their drums were embraced by jazz drummers, and by the ’80s and ’90s, they became staples for rock legends like Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden) and Mikkey Dee (Motörhead). Today, prog rockers like Gavin Harrison and Danny Carey proudly drum on Sonor kits, proving the brand’s timeless influence.
The real highlight? The reissue of the 14″x08″ Cast Bronze Snare Drum, originally introduced in 1987 as part of the Signature Series. Known for its resonance, purity, and projection, the drum was crafted with a 3mm cast bronze shell and 2mm sound focus rings. The 150th Anniversary edition stays true to this design while incorporating modern hardware features. With 24-carat gold-plated components and an individually numbered commemorative badge, only 100 of these drums are available worldwide—a true collector’s dream.
Sonor’s legacy is not just in its drums but in its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Here’s to another 150 years of unforgettable sound.
www.sonor.com/150/bronze-snare
