Ever hit a drum and wonder why it didn’t sound quite right? That might not be your drumming skill, but the drum head itself! Choosing the right drum head can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many types, materials, and thicknesses, it’s easy to get lost and pick one that just doesn’t fit your sound.
This confusion can lead to frustration and wasted money. You want your drums to sing, to have that perfect punch or warm rumble, but the wrong head can make them sound dull or thin. It’s a common problem for drummers of all levels, from beginners just starting out to experienced players looking for a specific tone.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll understand the basics of drum heads. We’ll break down what makes them sound different and help you figure out which ones are best for your needs. Get ready to unlock a better drum sound!
Our Top 5 Drum Heads Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Drum Heads Detailed Reviews
1. Evans Drum Heads – G2 Clear Rock Pack (10″
Rating: 9.4/10
The Evans Drum Heads – G2 Clear Rock Pack (10″, 12″, 16″) with 14″ HD Dry Snare Batter is a fantastic upgrade for any drummer looking to improve their sound. This pack gives you clear tom heads and a special snare head, all designed to make your drums sound amazing. You get three tom heads in popular sizes: 10-inch, 12-inch, and 16-inch. You also get a 14-inch HD Dry Snare Batter head. These heads are built tough and sound great.
What We Like:
- The two plies of 7mil film on the G2 heads create a strong and reliable sound.
- These heads offer a balanced attack, meaning they sound good no matter how you hit them.
- You get a nice, clear tone with good sustain, making your drums sing.
- The clear tom heads are super durable and give a fat, full low-end sound.
- Evans’ Level 360 Technology makes tuning your drums super easy and helps them sound their best.
- These drumheads are proudly made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some drummers might want even more sustain for certain styles.
- The bright tone is great for many genres, but might not be ideal for those seeking a darker sound without additional dampening.
This pack delivers a powerful and versatile sound that will make your drums stand out. It’s an excellent choice for drummers who want quality and performance.
2. Evans Drum Heads – G2 Coated Rock Tompack (10 inch
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your drum kit with the Evans G2 Coated Rock Tompack. This pack includes three tom heads: a 10-inch, a 12-inch, and a 16-inch. They are coated to give your drums a warmer, richer sound. These heads are built tough and sound great.
What We Like:
- The coating adds a warm, focused, and deep sound to your toms.
- Two layers of strong film make these heads last a long time.
- They work well for many different music styles because they have a good balance of sound qualities.
- Level 360 Technology makes tuning easy and helps get the best sound possible.
- Made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sustain is average, so some drummers might want a longer ring.
- The tone is slightly bright, which might not suit every musical genre.
This Evans G2 Coated Rock Tompack is a solid choice for drummers looking for improved sound and durability. You’ll get a great tone and tuning ease.
3. Evans Drum Heads – EC2S Clear Rock Tompack (10 inch
Rating: 8.8/10
The Evans Drum Heads – EC2S Clear Rock Tompack (10 inch, 12 inch, 16 inch) is a fantastic set of drumheads designed to give your toms a powerful and clear sound. This pack includes three essential tom sizes, making it a great upgrade for any drummer looking to enhance their sound.
What We Like:
- The two plies of 7mil film give the heads a great tone and let them ring out nicely.
- They are easy to tune, which saves you time and frustration.
- Sound Shaping Technology (SST) helps create a focused sound with a strong attack, perfect for rock music.
- Level 360 Technology makes tuning even easier and improves the overall sound quality.
- These heads are made right here in the USA, so you know you’re getting quality craftsmanship.
- The clear finish looks great on any drum kit.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some drummers might prefer a different sustain level.
- While these are clear, an option for a frosted look is available for those who prefer it.
This Evans EC2S Clear Rock Tompack offers a professional sound and easy setup. It’s a solid choice for drummers seeking improved tone and playability.
4. Evans Drum Heads – G2 Coated Fusion Tompack (10 inch
Rating: 9.0/10
The Evans Drum Heads – G2 Coated Fusion Tompack (10 inch, 12 inch, 14 inch) offers drummers a fantastic upgrade for their tom sound. This pack includes three essential tom sizes, all featuring a coated surface. This coating adds a pleasing warmth and focus to your drums. The G2 heads are built with two layers of strong film. This design makes them very durable and ready for lots of playing.
What We Like:
- The coated finish adds a nice warm, focused sound.
- Two plies of film make these heads tough and long-lasting.
- They sound good in many different music styles.
- The balanced sound has a good attack and sustain.
- Level 360 Technology makes tuning super easy.
- You get a wide range of notes you can tune your drums to.
- They are made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sustain might be a bit short for some players who like a very long ring.
- While durable, they might not last as long as some thicker, single-ply heads for very aggressive players.
This tompack is a solid choice for drummers seeking a great all-around sound and reliable performance. You’ll enjoy the improved tone and ease of tuning these heads provide.
5. Evans Drum Heads – Onyx 2-Ply Tompack Coated
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your drum kit with the Evans Drum Heads – Onyx 2-Ply Tompack Coated, Standard. This pack includes three coated tom heads: a 12-inch, a 13-inch, and a 16-inch. They are designed to give your toms a rich, powerful sound.
What We Like:
- The frost coating adds a nice warmth and focus to the sound.
- Two plies make these heads really strong and long-lasting.
- You get a strong, punchy sound with a lot of low-end.
- Tuning is super easy thanks to Level 360 Technology.
- These heads are made right here in the USA.
- The matte black look is really cool.
What Could Be Improved:
- The unique coating might not be for every drummer’s preferred sound.
- The powerful attack might be too much for very quiet playing situations.
The Evans Onyx 2-Ply Tompack is a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a bold, durable, and easy-to-tune tom sound. These heads deliver a powerful punch that will make your drums stand out.
Choosing the Right Drum Heads: A Beginner’s Guide
Drum heads are like the skin of your drums. They are the circular pieces of plastic that you hit to make sound. Picking the right ones makes a big difference in how your drums sound and feel. This guide will help you find the perfect drum heads for you.
Key Features to Look For
1. Thickness (Ply)
Drum heads come in different thicknesses. This is measured in “plies.” A single ply is thin, like a single layer of paper. Double ply is thicker, like two layers. Thicker heads often last longer and give a fatter, deeper sound. Thinner heads can be brighter and more responsive.
2. Coating
Some drum heads have a coating on them. This coating can be smooth or have a rough texture. Coated heads often make the drum sound warmer and are good for brushes. Uncoated heads are usually brighter and louder.
3. Tone and Sustain
Tone is the sound quality of the drum. Sustain is how long the sound rings out. Different heads will change these. Some heads make a drum sound deep and short. Others make it sound bright and ringy.
4. Durability
How long will the drum head last? Thicker heads and those made from good materials tend to last longer. If you hit your drums hard, you’ll want a durable head.
Important Materials
Most drum heads are made from Mylar. This is a strong plastic. It’s used because it can stretch and bounce back without breaking easily. The quality of the Mylar can change. Better Mylar makes a better sound and lasts longer.
Factors That Affect Quality
What Makes a Drum Head Better?
- High-Quality Mylar: The better the plastic, the better the sound.
- Even Thickness: A head that is the same thickness all the way around sounds best.
- Strong Collar: The collar is the edge of the head that clamps to the drum. A strong collar means the head will fit well and not slip.
What Can Make a Drum Head Worse?
- Thin or Cheap Mylar: This can rip easily and sound bad.
- Uneven Thickness: This can cause weird sounds.
- Weak Collar: A weak collar can cause tuning problems.
User Experience and Use Cases
Drum heads are for everyone who plays drums! Whether you play rock, jazz, or just for fun, the right head will help you sound great. Beginners might want a durable double-ply head that is easy to tune. Experienced drummers might look for specific sounds, like a bright snare head or a deep kick drum head.
If you play loud music like rock, you might want a double-ply head for extra power and to keep it from breaking. If you play softer music like jazz, you might like a single-ply head for a more sensitive sound. Some drummers even use coated heads for a warmer sound when playing with brushes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most common type of drum head?
A: The most common type is a single-ply or double-ply Mylar head. These are used on most drums.
Q: How often should I change my drum heads?
A: It depends on how much you play and how hard you hit. A good rule of thumb is to change them when they look worn, sound dull, or have dents.
Q: What is the difference between coated and uncoated heads?
A: Coated heads have a thin layer of material on top. This makes the sound warmer and is good for brushes. Uncoated heads are brighter and louder.
Q: Can I use a snare drum head on a tom?
A: No, you should use the correct size head for each drum. Snare heads are made for snare drums, and tom heads are made for toms.
Q: What does “tuning” a drum head mean?
A: Tuning means tightening or loosening the head to get a specific sound. This is done by adjusting the tension rods around the drum.
Q: Do different brands sound different?
A: Yes, different brands often use slightly different materials or manufacturing methods. This can lead to unique sounds.
Q: What is a “resonant head”?
A: A resonant head is the head on the bottom of a drum. It helps shape the overall sound of the drum.
Q: How do I know what size drum head I need?
A: The size of the drum head matches the size of the drum shell. For example, a 12-inch tom needs a 12-inch drum head.
Q: Can I mix and match different types of drum heads on my kit?
A: Yes, many drummers do this to create a unique sound for their entire kit.
Q: Are expensive drum heads always better?
A: Not always. While higher-quality materials and construction often cost more, there are great affordable options. It’s more about finding the right head for your sound and needs.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.