One of the primary reasons Ludwig is "The Most Famous Name In Drums" is the legendary Black Beauty Snare Drum. The drum is constructed of a single sheet of brass that is machine drawn and spun into a seamless beaded shell, then nickel-plated with a beautifully exquisite finish. A true American original, the Black Beauty provides a warm, round metallic tone that is often imitated, but never duplicated. However, due to their truly unique and difficult manufacturing process, only a very limited number of Black Beauties is available each year from Ludwig USA.

 

The 'B stock' refers to some cosmetic plating flaw, typically located inside the shell. It does not alter the sound or affect the drum in anyway.