What drumheads to use? The 'keep it simple' guide to buying drumheads.
Posted by Wayne J. Morris on 6th Feb 2024
Deciding which drumheads to use can be a daunting task, given the plethora of options available in terms of sizes, colours, technologies, and brands. This confusion is especially prevalent among beginners, newer drummers, but also among experienced beat makers. Many drummers find themselves scratching their heads, unsure of what drumheads to choose. In my opinion, it's best to keep it simple and start with the following recommendations which will hopefully alleviate the confusion and serve as a solid foundation for you to make adjustments to and tweek as you progress on your drumming journey.
To keep it simple, the below list of drum heads are my ‘Go-to’ as a starting point, follow the links to the Drum Republic online store as a reference.
Toms - Batter (the top skin that you hit)
Remo Emperor Clear
https://drumrepublic.au/remo-usa-emperor-clear-10-drumhead-be-0310-00/
Toms - Reso (the bottom skin)
Remo Ambassador Clear
https://drumrepublic.au/remo-usa-ambassador-clear-10-drumhead-ba-0310-00/
Bass Drum - Batter
Remo Powerstroke 3 (P3) Clear
https://drumrepublic.au/remo-usa-powerstroke-p3-clear-22-bass-drumhead-p3-1322-c2/
Bass Drum - Reso
Remo Ambassador Ebony/Black or Remo Powerstroke 3 (P3) Ebony/Black. Either one of these will serve you well.
https://drumrepublic.au/remo-usa-ambassador-ebony-22-bass-drum-head-es-1022-00/
Snare Batter:
Remo Ambassador Coated (white)
https://drumrepublic.au/remo-usa-ambassador-coated-14-drumhead-ba-0114-00/
Snare Reso (Snare Side or bottom skin on the snare drum)
Remo Ambassador Hazy
https://drumrepublic.au/remo-usa-ambassador-hazy-14-snare-side-bottom-drumhead-sa-0114-00/
And that's it! Remember to use the above list as a starting point and tweek and experiment to suit your situation.
When it comes to selecting drumheads, it's important to consider the sound you want to achieve. Different drumheads produce different tones, so it's crucial to choose ones that align with your musical style, personal preferences, and of course paying attention to your equipment as sometimes the drum itself does the talking and screams out a particular drum head. For a warm and full sound, coated drumheads are ideal. They have a layer of coating that adds depth and warmth to the tone. On the other hand, clear drumheads provide a bright and resonant sound with more sustain. They are particularly suitable for genres like rock or pop where clarity and projection are key. Consider the type of music you play and the desired effect when selecting your drumheads.
When it comes to technology, there are various advancements in drumhead construction that can enhance your playing experience. Some drumheads feature built-in dampening systems that control overtones and provide a more focused sound. These can be beneficial if you're looking for a specific sound or if you're playing in venues with challenging acoustics.
Lastly, the brand of drumheads you choose can also impact your overall experience. Well-established brands like Remo Drumheads often have a reputation for producing high-quality drumheads that are durable and consistent in their performance. However, it's worth noting that there are also smaller, boutique brands that offer unique sounds and innovative designs. In my option, you get what you pay for. Personally I would never compromise my sound using ‘what's cheap’...because cheap usually sounds terrible.
In conclusion, selecting the right drumheads involves considering factors such as sound preference, size, technology, and brand. By keeping it simple and starting with the recommendations mentioned above, you can lay a strong foundation for your drumming journey. Remember, experimentation and personal preference are key, so don't be afraid to explore different options and make adjustments along the way.
Enjoy!
Wayne J. Morris
Founder of Drum Republic