Mapex SD4555XN Pro Maple 14*5.5 Snare Drum

The Mapex SD4555XN Pro Maple 14"x5.5" Snare Drum is generally well-regarded as a professional-grade instrument that offers great value, known for its warm tone and versatility. It is an older model that may be difficult to find new, but used options and similar current models are available.
Key Features and User Opinions
The Mapex Pro series snare drums feature high-quality maple shells designed to deliver a rich, resonant sound suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
Shell Construction: The snare features a 7-ply, 5.8mm thick all-maple shell, known for its excellent resonance and tonal complexity. This construction provides a good balance of body and sensitivity.
Sound Quality: Reviewers praise the drum for delivering professional performance, with a sound that is both big and variable. Tuned low, it produces rich, earthy tones, while mid-to-high tuning yields a traditional bright, crisp sound with a fat backbeat and crisp rim shots.
Playability: The drum is noted for being easy to tune and holding its tune well, which many players appreciate. Snare responsiveness is a big plus, with very sensitive and adjustable snare wires.
Hardware: It includes 2.3mm chrome steel Mapex Powerhoops, which resist flex without muting the sound. However, some users have noted that the general hardware might not be the same professional quality as the shell itself, with throw-offs occasionally being described as "cheap" but still precise and reliable.