Choosing the Right Drumheads: A Complete Guide

Drumheads play a crucial role in the sound quality of your kit. Whatever your drumming level, choosing the right heads is essential to get the tone you’re after. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to choose your drum heads: the available types of heads, differences between brands, and the key criteria to make the right choice.

1. Understanding the Different Types of Drumheads

There are two main categories of drumheads, each with its own specifics:

Batter (Top) Heads

Batter heads are the ones you strike. They directly shape the sound. Several constructions are common:

• Single-ply: Made from one layer of Mylar, they deliver a clear, open tone. Ideal for styles like jazz or acoustic music.

• Double-ply: Built from two layers of Mylar, they offer more control and increased durability. Perfect for rock, metal, or harder-hitting styles.

• Coated: A “sanded” coating (“coated” in English) on the head yields a warmer, more rounded tone, much loved in jazz and vintage styles. Other surface treatments exist, such as Remo’s “Fiberskyn” or Evans’ “Calftone,” which emulate calfskin for a very classic, warm, controlled, vintage sound.

Resonant (Bottom) Heads

Mounted beneath the shells, these play a key role in projection and overall resonance. Resonant heads are often thinner and clear (uncoated) to let the shells breathe and vibrate freely.

Snare-Side Heads (for Snare Drums)

Snare-side heads have a specific role on the snare drum. Placed underneath, they interact directly with the metal wires (“snares”) to produce that crisp, characteristic snap. Here are a few key points:

• Ultra-thin gauges: Snare-side heads are generally thinner than batter or resonant heads—often between 2 and 5 mil—for maximum sensitivity to the snare wires’ vibrations.
• Purpose-built models: Many brands, like Remo (Ambassador Snare Side) and Evans (Hazy 300), offer dedicated snare-side heads tailored to different playing styles.
• Sensitivity and control: The right snare-side head can deliver better response for delicate nuances while keeping unwanted overtones in check. 

2. How to Choose for Your Musical Style

Your choice of heads primarily depends on the music you play. Here are some recommendations by genre:

• Jazz: Prefer single-ply coated heads for a warm, resonant tone.
• Rock & Pop: Go for double-ply heads that provide more punch and control.
• Metal: Double-ply heads, reinforced and with treatments to tame overtones, are ideal.
• Funk: Choose clear, single-ply heads for a bright, snappy attack.

For Versatile Drummers

If you play multiple styles, middle-ground heads can be a smart choice. For example, a double-ply head with a light coating can offer solid versatility—moving from powerful tones to more nuanced textures. Some brands even offer mixed kits so you can tailor each shell to your needs.

Why Bass Drum Choice Matters

The kick drum is central to many styles. For a deep, punchy sound, look for heads specifically designed with one or more overtone-control rings. Models like Evans EMAD or Remo Powerstroke are perennial favorites.

3. Brand Differences

Several brands compete in the drumhead market. Here’s a snapshot of the heavy hitters:

• Remo: Known for Emperor, Ambassador, and Pinstripe lines—reliable products for every style.
• Evans: An innovator with Level 360 heads, offering excellent tuning ease and standout durability.
• Aquarian: Renowned for responsive heads with a natural, recording-friendly sound.
• Code Drumheads: A newer brand gaining ground with accessible, versatile products.

Remo vs. Evans: The Classic Match-Up

Drummers often split on Remo versus Evans. Remo shines with its deep catalog and iconic models, while Evans leans into innovation and durability. For example, Evans Hydraulics, with their internal oil film, are a unique approach to reducing overtones.

Alternative Brands

If you’re curious to explore, brands like Aquarian or Code Drumheads offer excellent value for money—often recommended for drummers chasing a distinctive sonic identity.

4. Technical Criteria to Consider

Keep these elements in mind before you buy:

Thickness (in mil)

• Thin (7–10 mil): More sensitive and resonant.
• Thick (12–20 mil): More durable with greater control.

Coating

As a rule, coated heads (the “sanded” surface) yield a warmer tone, while clear heads produce a brighter, more open sound.

Built-In Dampening (or Not)

Some heads include systems to tame overtones for a tighter (but shorter) sound. For instance, Evans offers heads with a thin floating ring underneath; Remo’s “Pinstripe” embeds a ring around the entire circumference between the two Mylar plies (think classic ’70s rock sound). For snares, Evans “Dry” heads feature micro-vents around the edge, letting air escape quickly to control sustain and overtones for a very dry response.

Durability

Double-ply heads are typically more durable than single-ply, making them a smart pick for heavy hitters.

Tension and Tuning

Tuning is crucial to get the most from your heads. Higher tension gives a drier, punchier sound, while lower tension yields deeper, more resonant tones. Using a tuning tool is recommended to achieve even tension.

5. Care & Maintenance Tips

• Clean your heads regularly with a soft cloth to prevent dust and grime build-up.
• Avoid exposing your heads to extreme temperature changes.
• Replace worn heads to maintain optimal tone.

When Should You Replace Your Heads?

On average, a batter head should be replaced every 6–12 months depending on how often you play. For intensive or professional use, this can drop to 3 months. Resonant heads can last longer, but should also be changed if they show signs of wear.

Useful Accessories

Accessories like drum cases can extend your heads’ lifespan. Damping gels or other muffling options also let you shape overtones to suit different contexts.

Conclusion

Picking drumheads isn’t always straightforward, but with a good grasp of your needs and the characteristics of each option, you’ll quickly find what fits your style. Take time to experiment and compare to refine your sound. And remember: choosing the right heads is a key step in getting the most from your instrument and fully expressing your musical personality! 😉