The Black Magic has received good reviews from the industry and by all accounts, is another great snare from Ludwig. However, it is not in the same class as either a Supra or BB.
In my opinion, you probably wouldn't want both a Black Magic and either a Supra or a Black Beauty as your first two snares. If you're collecting snares, sure, go ahead. Otherwise, I'd think you'd want your second snare to offer a far different sound than your first. Perhaps metal and Wood, or a piccolo and a standard size, or whatever strikes your fancy as you try them out at your favorite store.
FYI, I think you have received some incorrect info along the way.
-- The Black Magic:
-- Is not a seamless shell;
-- Is not made in the US;
-- Is a Ludwig imported knock-off of their own coveted Black Beauty. It is designed to compete with the offerings of other manufacturers who offer Black Beauty knock-offs at a lower price-point.
A 5 x 14 Black Magic can be found for around $300. A 5 x 14 Black Beauty is $500 - 600, depending on the sale going on.
In short, the Black Magic wants to be a Black Beauty. The Black Beauty doesn't want to be anything other than what it is. The same is true of the Supra, the most recorded snare in history. Joey
In my opinion, you probably wouldn't want both a Black Magic and either a Supra or a Black Beauty as your first two snares. If you're collecting snares, sure, go ahead. Otherwise, I'd think you'd want your second snare to offer a far different sound than your first. Perhaps metal and Wood, or a piccolo and a standard size, or whatever strikes your fancy as you try them out at your favorite store.
FYI, I think you have received some incorrect info along the way.
-- The Black Magic:
-- Is not a seamless shell;
-- Is not made in the US;
-- Is a Ludwig imported knock-off of their own coveted Black Beauty. It is designed to compete with the offerings of other manufacturers who offer Black Beauty knock-offs at a lower price-point.
A 5 x 14 Black Magic can be found for around $300. A 5 x 14 Black Beauty is $500 - 600, depending on the sale going on.
In short, the Black Magic wants to be a Black Beauty. The Black Beauty doesn't want to be anything other than what it is. The same is true of the Supra, the most recorded snare in history. Joey