I am someone who very much likes the smaller type of snares, tuned tight and to be played as main snares. This one is a great choice. We get a lot of snare.
The walnut gives it an amazing dry tone, with a lot of attack and not very warm but rather dark.
The hoops are top quality. Rimshots are loud but also easy on the stick.
There was no need to change the heads. I believe the snare comes with the best heads for the size and construction, so that's a plus too.
I am extremely satisfied. I own other models made of maple and steel, some more expensive but the Mapex 12"x5,5 Goblin is, without a doubt, my personal favourite. Mapex are, indeed, masters in building snares and this one is wonderful, with the sound I always wanted. Brings tears of joy to play. Really.
I absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a loud and assertive wooden snare, with a defined sound that will cut through the mix. It is very pleasant to the ear.