SONOR Gavin Harrison Protean 12" x 5" Signature Snare Drum
Designed in collaboration with Gavin Harrison, the SONOR Protean 12" x 5" Signature Snare Drum was created to be an exceptionally versatile instrument – a compact snare that can be quickly adapted to suit different playing and musical situations.
Handcrafted in Germany, the Protean features a 6-ply, 6mm hand-selected birch shell finished in Silky Black, with distinctive white underlays beneath the chrome hardware. Its compact 12" diameter delivers a focused response, while a combination of specially selected bearing edges, hoops and snare components gives the drum its unique character.
Hybrid Bearing Edges & Hoops
One of the Protean's most interesting features is its hybrid bearing edge design.
The batter side uses a vintage-inspired rounded bearing edge, while the resonant side uses a modern 45° edge. SONOR pairs this with an S-Hoop on the batter side and 2.3mm Power Hoop on the resonant side, combining vintage-inspired and modern design ideas within the same drum.
6-Ply German Birch Shell
The Protean uses a 6-ply, 6mm hand-selected birch shell, handcrafted in Germany using SONOR's CLTF and Optimum Shell Measurement processes.
SONOR Phonic double lugs with TuneSafe provide reliable tuning stability, while the Dual Glide snare strainer offers precise control over the snare wires.
Standard Edition Accessories
The Standard Edition includes more than just the snare drum. You'll also receive:
3 different dampening rings
2 Protean tuning keys
The interchangeable dampening rings were designed as part of the Protean concept, allowing you to quickly alter the drum's response and character without permanently modifying the setup.
Key Features
Gavin Harrison Signature Series snare
Compact 12" x 5" dimensions
Handcrafted in Germany
6-ply, 6mm hand-selected birch shell
Silky Black / Matte Black lacquer finish
White hardware underlays
Rounded batter-side bearing edge
45° resonant-side bearing edge
S-Hoop batter hoop
2.3mm Power Hoop resonant side
SONOR Phonic double lugs
TuneSafe tuning system
Dual Glide snare strainer
CLTF shell construction
Optimum Shell Measurement (OSM)
Protean Signature badge
3 dampening rings included
2 Protean tuning keys included
Specifications
Brand: SONOR Series: Signature / Protean Artist: Gavin Harrison Model: SSD 1205 GH SE SONOR SKU: 11177001 Edition: Standard Edition Size: 12" x 5" Shell Material: Birch Shell Construction: 6-Ply Medium Birch Shell Thickness: 6mm Finish: Silky Black / Matte Black Lacquer Batter Bearing Edge: Rounded Resonant Bearing Edge: 45° Batter Hoop: S-Hoop Resonant Hoop: 2.3mm Power Hoop Lugs: SONOR Phonic Double Lugs with TuneSafe Lug Hole Spacing: 52mm Snare Strainer: Dual Glide Shell Manufacturing: CLTF / OSM Hardware Finish: Chrome Country of Manufacture: Germany Included: 3 Dampening Rings & 2 Protean Tuning Keys
FAQs
Who is the SONOR Protean snare designed for?
The Protean was developed with Gavin Harrison as a versatile workhorse snare that could be quickly adapted to different musical situations. The compact 12" x 5" size also makes it a great choice as either a distinctive main snare or additional side snare.
What is the SONOR Protean shell made from?
It uses a 6-ply, 6mm hand-selected birch shell, handcrafted in Germany.
Why does the Protean use different bearing edges?
The batter side uses a vintage-inspired rounded edge, while the resonant side has a modern 45° edge. SONOR designed this hybrid setup to combine different response characteristics within the same drum.
What are the Protean dampening rings?
Three different dampening rings are supplied with the Standard Edition, allowing you to quickly change the amount of damping and alter the drum's response without changing heads.
What's the difference between the Standard and Premium Protean?
The Standard Edition includes the snare, three dampening rings and two Protean tuning keys. The Premium Edition additionally includes a custom Protean Hardcase and Gavin Harrison's alternative EQ and Spacer snare wires.
At Into Music, we’re committed to getting your order to you quickly, safely, and reliably. Please find our shipping details below.
Order Processing
Orders are typically processed within 24–48 hours of being placed (Monday–Friday).
Orders placed before 1pm on a working day are eligible for next working day dispatch.
Orders placed after 1pm or over the weekend will be processed and shipped on the next working day (usually Monday).
Custom, special-order, or items in stock with suppliers may take longer to process. If you're unsure, we recommend getting in touch with us for an estimated timeframe before placing your order.
Delivery Options
We offer a range of delivery services to suit your needs:
Standard Delivery – Please allow 2–3 working days for dispatch, plus delivery time.
Next Day Delivery – Available on orders placed before 1pm (Monday–Friday).
Shipping Carriers
We ship all orders using trusted delivery partners, including Royal Mail and DHL, depending on the size, weight, and destination of your order.
Packaging
All items are carefully packed to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. Fragile or high-value items are given extra protection using appropriate packaging materials.
Shipping Rates
Shipping costs are calculated based on the size, weight, and destination of your order. You’ll see the exact shipping cost at checkout before completing your purchase.
Order Tracking
Once your order has been dispatched, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your tracking number and carrier details, so you can follow your delivery every step of the way.
International Shipping
We’re happy to ship worldwide. Please note:
Delivery times and shipping costs vary by destination.
Customers are responsible for any customs duties, import taxes, or additional fees that may apply in their country.
If you need help with your order or have any questions about shipping, feel free to get in touch with the Into Music team - we’re always happy to help.
