Drum Repairs

Professional snare drum repairs, reskinning, bearing edge work, and tune-ups by experienced drum technician at Melbourne's Angkor Music. Visit our Altona workshop for same-week service, or use our mail-in repair service from anywhere in Australia - Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and beyond.

Why Melbourne Drummers Trust Our Snare Drum Repair Workshop

Our Altona workshop specializes in snare drum restoration and repair, led by a master drum technician with over 30 years of hands-on experience. Unlike chain music stores that outsource drum work or employ inexperienced staff, every repair at Angkor Music is performed by our seasoned professional using specialized tools including precision bearing edge cutters, digital tension meters, and professional drum hardware equipment. We service everything from entry-level student snares to rare vintage drums worth thousands, treating each instrument with the expertise it deserves.

How to Pack Your Snare Drum for Shipping

Follow these instructions carefully to ensure your snare drum arrives safely. Proper packing prevents damage during transit and helps us process your repair faster.

Step-by-Step Packing Guide:

1. Loosen tension rods: Completely detension both drum heads (turn all tension rods counterclockwise until loose). This prevents head damage and bearing edge stress during shipping.
2. Remove throw-off (if loose): If your throw-off arm is loose or broken, remove it and pack separately in bubble wrap to prevent further damage.
3. Wrap the drum: Wrap entire snare drum in bubble wrap (minimum 2-3 layers). Pay special attention to protecting the hoops, lugs, and throw-off mechanism.
4. Box selection: Use a sturdy cardboard box at least 2-3 inches larger than the wrapped drum on all sides. Double-wall boxes preferred for extra protection.
5. Cushioning material: Fill bottom of box with packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or crumpled paper (minimum 2 inches of cushioning).
6. Position drum: Place wrapped drum in center of box. Drum should NOT touch any box walls - maintain 2+ inches of cushioning on all sides.
7. Fill voids: Fill all remaining space around and above drum with packing material. Shake box gently - drum should not move inside.
8. Include documentation: Place a note inside with your name, phone number, email, and booking reference number (we'll provide after payment).
9. Seal securely: Use quality packing tape to seal all seams. Reinforce corners and edges with extra tape.
10. Label clearly: Write "FRAGILE - MUSICAL INSTRUMENT" on all sides. Include "THIS SIDE UP" arrows if possible.

Ship to: Angkor Music, 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018
Mark package: "SNARE DRUM REPAIR - [Your Name]"

Shipping & Insurance Information

You ship to us: You're responsible for shipping your snare drum to our Altona workshop with insurance and tracking. We provide detailed packing instructions after booking. We recommend Australia Post with insurance and signature confirmation, or Sendle/other reputable courier with insurance. Insurance required for full drum replacement value.

We ship back to you: Return shipping is included in all mail-in service prices listed above. We ship with full insurance for your drum's value, signature-required delivery, tracking number provided, and professional packing (original case if sent, or double-boxed with padding).

Don't see your brand? We work on all snare drums regardless of manufacturer, including custom, boutique, and vintage drums. Call (03) 8360 7799 to discuss your specific drum.

Do I need an appointment for snare drum repairs?

No appointment required for in-store service - walk-ins welcome during business hours. However, calling ahead on (03) 8360 7799 helps us schedule your repair for faster turnaround. For mail-in service, book and pay online to receive packing instructions immediately.

How much does snare drum head replacement cost?

Snare drum head replacement (reskin) costs $85 for a single head in-store, or $115 for mail-in (includes return shipping). Both heads (batter + resonant) is $95 in-store or $125 mail-in. Drum heads are purchased separately - we stock Remo, Evans, and Aquarian in various types and can order specialty heads.

What's included in the Complete Tune-Up Package?

The Complete Tune-Up Package ($189 in-store / $249 mail-in) includes installation of new batter and resonant heads, new snare wires, deep cleaning of shell and hardware, bearing edge inspection, lug lubrication, throw-off servicing, and professional tuning. This is like getting your snare professionally restored. Heads and snare wires purchased separately.

How long do snare drum repairs take?

Typical turnaround is 3-6 days for most repairs (head replacement, tune-up, bearing edge work, hardware replacement). Simple jobs like head changes often completed faster. For mail-in service, add 2-5 days shipping each direction. Total mail-in timeline: 7-16 days from when you ship to when you receive it back. We'll provide specific timeframe after inspecting your drum.

Is mail-in snare drum repair safe?

Yes, when packed correctly. We provide detailed packing instructions showing exactly how to protect your snare drum (including detuning heads completely, proper cushioning, and secure boxing). Insurance coverage (required when shipping to us) protects your drum. Return shipping includes full insurance, professional packing, and signature-required delivery. Thousands of drums ship successfully across Australia when proper packing procedures are followed.

Can you fix vintage or rare snare drums?

Yes. Our drum technician has extensive experience with vintage snare drums from the 1950s through present including Ludwig, Slingerland, Rogers, Gretsch, and other classic brands. We understand vintage-appropriate repair techniques, can source period-correct parts where possible, and will discuss the best approach for your vintage drum (restoration vs. modernization). We also work on custom and boutique drums.

Do you supply drum heads and parts, or do I bring my own?

We stock common drum heads (Remo, Evans, Aquarian in various types), snare wires, and basic hardware. You can purchase these from us during your repair, or bring your own if you have specific preferences. For specialized heads or vintage parts, we can order them in or you can supply them. We'll discuss options when you book or bring in your drum.

What if you find additional problems during repair?

We'll contact you with photos and a quote for any additional work needed. You can approve or decline additional repairs - we'll never proceed without your permission. If you decline, we'll complete the originally booked service only. For mail-in service, we'll email detailed information so you can make an informed decision. No surprise charges - ever.

Can I ship just the snare drum, or do I need to send the case too?

If you have a hard case, shipping the snare in its case provides best protection (pack the cased drum in a larger box with padding). However, you can ship just the drum if properly packed following our instructions (bubble wrap, sturdy box, adequate cushioning). We'll return it the same way - in case if you sent it that way, or professionally boxed if drum-only. Either method works when packed correctly.

Where are you located in Melbourne?

We're located at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018. Approximately 15 minutes from Melbourne CBD, easily accessible from West Gate Freeway. Free parking available. Walk-ins welcome during business hours, or call ahead on (03) 8360 7799 to ensure your preferred service time.

Ready to Get Your Snare Drum Professionally Serviced?

Book your repair service online, call us for a quote, or visit our Altona workshop with your snare. Expert service by our 30-year experienced technician whether you visit in person or use our Australia-wide mail-in service.

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