Slingerland Gene Krupa Limited Radio King Snare Drum 6.5x14 White Marine Pearl #14 of 200 Worldwide

Slingerland Limited Edition Gene Krupa Radio King 6.5x14 Snare Drum White Marine Pearl | West Coast Drum Shop

The Slingerland Limited Edition Gene Krupa Radio King 6.5x14 Snare Drum pays tribute to one of the most influential drummers in history with a collectible instrument built to honor the legendary sound and craftsmanship of the original Radio King era. Limited to only 200 units worldwide, this premium snare captures the spirit of Gene Krupa's groundbreaking legacy while delivering boutique-level build quality and vintage-inspired performance for modern players.

Inspired By A Drumming Icon

Few artists shaped drumming history like Gene Krupa. Widely recognized as one of the first true drum superstars, Krupa helped bring the drum set to center stage and became nearly synonymous with Slingerland throughout his career. This limited-edition Radio King celebrates that history with period-correct appointments, meticulous craftsmanship, and a sound designed to honor the original instruments that defined an era.

Steam-Bent Solid Maple Shell Construction

At the core of this drum is a single steam-bent North American maple shell, handcrafted at the Craviotto Music City Workshop and built using the classic Radio King formula that vintage collectors and recording professionals continue to seek out today. The shell is cut with a 30-degree rounded bearing edge, producing exceptional warmth, sensitivity, body, and musicality.

• Size: 6.5x14
• Shell: Steam-bent solid North American maple
• Construction: Single-ply solid shell with hand-cut reinforcement rings
• Bearing Edge: Original-style 30-degree rounded bearing edge
• Finish: White Marine Pearl Wrap
• Hardware: Period-correct nickel-plated hardware
• Strainer: Vintage-style 3-Point Strainer
• Hoops: Nickel-over-brass Stick Chopper hoops with engraved Radio King logos
• Production Quantity: Limited to only 200 drums worldwide
• Made In: Oxnard, California, USA

Vintage Feel With Boutique-Level Detail

This drum stays faithful to the original Radio King spirit with classic appointments throughout, including a Gene Krupa signature cloud badge, individually numbered shell label, and period-correct nickel hardware. The vintage-inspired 3-Point Strainer provides reliable snare engagement and authentic feel, while the brass Stick Chopper hoops contribute punch, articulation, and classic rimshot character.

The result is a snare drum capable of producing rich low-end warmth, crisp articulation, and the kind of musical sensitivity that made vintage Radio Kings legendary in studios and on stages around the world.

Collector Presentation And Premium Extras

As expected from a premium collectible release, this limited Gene Krupa model includes premium accessories designed to match the significance of the instrument.

• Premium calfskin batter head
• Custom Radio King branded heavy-duty snare case
• Certificate signed by DW founder Don Lombardi
• Gene Krupa commemorative postcard
• Individually numbered limited-edition shell label

Why Buy From West Coast Drum Shop?

At West Coast Drum Shop in Bellevue, Washington, we specialize in premium drums, collectible instruments, boutique gear, and professional-level percussion equipment. Our staff includes experienced players and drum specialists who understand what makes historic instruments special and can help match serious drummers and collectors with exceptional gear.

Whether you are building a high-end collection, searching for a studio centerpiece, or adding an heirloom-quality instrument to your lineup, this Slingerland Limited Edition Gene Krupa Radio King 6.5x14 represents a rare opportunity to own a modern tribute to one of the most important snare drum designs ever created.