Drumheads

Drumheads

When it comes to drums, drumheads and tuning are everything. Choosing the right heads for your drums can spell the difference between an instrument that speaks to you on a spiritual level, and one that just makes sound. If you have been playing drums for any length of time, you already know just how many heads are available today. Coated or clear, single or double ply, thick or thin – there are a lot of options..

History

Before the 1950s, most drums used calfskin heads. While calfskin did and does impart a cool sound, it was tough to install. Each head would come as a dried round disc that had to be soaked in water first so it would loosen up. Then it had to be stretched over the drum shell and then manually connected to the hoop so it could be tuned up. On top of all that, the drumheads would expand and contract with the weather! The advent of plastic drumheads – most notably mylar polyester and, in the marching world, Kevlar aramid fiber – has made life much easier for drummers today.

Types of drumheads

• Single-ply
• Double-ply
• Coated head
• Clear head

Single-ply drumheads are the most basic, and typically thinnest, types of drumheads on the market, most commonly created from a single layer of ~10-mil mylar (a mil refers to one one-thousandth of an inch). Single-ply types are bright and help bring out the overtones of a drum. These are perfect for jazz and lighter styles of music, but can also be used for rock. Their only limitation is that they are typically not as durable as double-ply heads, so they do not last as long in a rock setting.

In addition to being more durable than their single-ply counterparts, double-ply heads tend to exhibit more attack, reduced overtones, and a shorter sustain. These are great for rock and styles of music where longevity and articulation are king. Many double-ply heads feature more than just the two main plies. They may come with a ring on the outer edge to help control overtones.

Coating on a drumhead tends to muffle the sound a bit. Clearer heads tend to sound brighter and more open. Which style is right for you comes down to a matter of personal taste. Coated heads are great for snare drums and critical if you play with brushes. Coated heads on toms tend to make the drums a bit warmer, while clear tom heads will give you more attack. The same goes for your kick drum.

Buy drumheads in Musician.UA

You can buy drumheads in our stores. It is also possible to place an order in the online shop. Thanks to the wide assortment, everyone will find a suitable product for themselves. You can always count on professional advice and assistance. We care about the quality of service and do everything we can to make sure you are satisfied with your purchase.