As a drummer, the sound of your kit is one of the most important aspects of your performance. Drum heads play a vital role in shaping the sound of your drums, and selecting the right drum heads can make all the difference in the world. With so many different options on the market, it can be challenging to find the perfect drum heads for your needs. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive review of our favorite drum heads to help you make the right choice for your sound.
The Importance of Drum Heads
The sound of a drum is influenced by many factors, including the size and construction of the drum, the type of sticks or brushes used, and the drum heads. Drum heads are one of the most critical factors in shaping the sound of your kit. They come in many different materials, thicknesses, and styles, and each has a unique impact on the tone and resonance of your drums.
Drum heads are responsible for producing the sound of a drum kit. They are made from various materials such as animal skins, synthetic materials, and Kevlar. Choosing the right drum head is crucial in creating the desired sound. The thickness of the drumhead and the number of plies will also affect the sound.
Types of Drum Heads
Drum heads come in a variety of types, each with its unique characteristics and sound. When choosing drum heads, it’s important to understand the different types available to help you achieve the sound you want.
Batter Heads – Batter heads are the top layer of the drum that is struck by the drumstick. They are responsible for producing the primary sound of the drum. There are different types of batter heads, including single-ply, double-ply, and coated heads, as well as specialty heads like those with built-in muffling.
Single-ply heads – Are made of a single layer of material, usually made of mylar or other synthetic materials. They produce a bright, lively sound with more sustain and resonance. They’re often used in styles like jazz and pop.
Double-ply heads – consist of two layers of material, providing increased durability and a fuller, more focused sound with less sustain and resonance. They’re often used in styles like rock, metal, and punk.
Coated heads – have a thin layer of coating on the surface, usually made of a textured material like mylar. This coating dampens the sound slightly, producing a warmer, more focused sound with less sustain and resonance.
Resonant heads – are the bottom layer of the drum that allows the drum to vibrate and resonate. They’re responsible for producing the overtones and sustain of the drum. There are different types of resonant heads, including single-ply and double-ply heads.
It’s important to note that the choice of resonant head can have a significant impact on the overall sound of the drum. Choosing a resonant head with a different thickness, material, or design can drastically alter the tone and character of the drum.
Other Types of Drum Heads
In addition to batter and resonant heads, there are other types of drum heads available. These include hydraulic heads, mesh heads, and specialty heads.
Ultimately, the type of drum head you choose will depend on your playing style, the music you’re playing, and the sound you want to achieve. It’s always worth experimenting with different types and brands of drum heads to find the ones that work best for you.
Our Favorite Drum Heads
Remo Emperor Coated
The Remo Emperor Coated is one of the most popular drum heads on the market. They are made with two plies of 7-mil film, which provides a warm, full-bodied sound. The coating adds warmth and depth to the sound, and they are incredibly durable.
Evans G2 Coated
The Evans G2 Coated drum head is another popular option among drummers. They are made with two plies of 7-mil film and have a coated surface. The coated surface gives the drum a warmer and more controlled sound. The Evans G2 Coated drum head is also incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of music genres.
Aquarian Super-Kick III
The Aquarian Super-Kick III is a popular bass drum head. It is made with two plies of 7-mil film and has a narrow felt strip attached to the inside of the drum head. The felt strip adds extra punch to the bass drum, making it ideal for rock and metal drummers.
Remo Powerstroke P3
The Remo Powerstroke P3 is another popular bass drum head. It is made with two plies of 7-mil film and has an inlay ring at the outer edge of the drumhead. The inlay ring reduces overtones and enhances the attack of the bass drum, making it an excellent choice for live performances.
Evans Hydraulic
The Evans Hydraulic drum head is made with two plies of oil-filled film. The oil inside the drum head reduces overtones and produces a warm, fat sound. The Hydraulic drum head is ideal for drummers who want a deep, punchy sound. The oil-filled film provides excellent durability, and the hydraulic design reduces overtones, making it suitable for recording and live performances.
Remo Ambassador Coated
The Remo Ambassador Coated drum head is made with a single ply of 10-mil film, making it thinner than other drum heads on this list. The thinner design allows for more sustain and a brighter sound. The coated surface also provides warmth and depth to the sound, making it a versatile option for many different music genres.
Evans UV1
The Evans UV1 drum head is made with a single ply of 10-mil film and features a UV-cured coating that makes it more durable than other drum heads on the market. The coating also adds warmth and depth to the sound, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres.
Remo Ambassador Clear
The Remo Ambassador Clear is another popular drum head among drummers. It is made with a single ply of 10-mil film and has a bright, open sound. The clear design allows for more sustain and resonance, making it a great option for jazz, funk, and other styles that require a bright, cutting sound.
Evans EMAD2
The Evans EMAD2 is a popular bass drum head that features a removable foam ring that allows drummers to adjust the amount of muffling on the bass drum. The EMAD2 is made with two plies of 7-mil film and has excellent durability and projection.
FAQs
Q: How do I know which drum heads are right for me?
A: It’s essential to consider the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve. Thicker drum heads produce a deeper sound, while thinner drum heads produce a brighter, more cutting sound.
Q: How often should I change my drum heads?
A: It’s recommended to change your drum heads every six to twelve months, depending on how often you play and how hard you hit the drums.
Q: What is the difference between a batter head and a resonant head?
A: A batter head is the top layer of the drum that is struck by the drumstick, while a resonant head is the bottom layer of the drum that allows the drum to vibrate and resonate.
Q: Are coated drum heads better than clear drum heads?
A: It depends on personal preference and the sound you want to achieve. Coated drum heads provide warmth and depth to the sound, while clear drum heads offer more sustain and brightness.
Conclusion
Choosing the right drum heads is essential to achieving the sound you want from your kit. The drum heads on this list are all excellent options that provide different sounds and features to suit different drumming styles and genres. Ultimately, the right drum heads for you will depend on your personal preference and the sound you want to achieve.
