I Tested the Top 5 Bass Drum Heads and Here’s Why They’re the Best for Your Sound

As a drummer, finding the perfect bass drum head is essential for achieving the desired sound and feel. After all, the bass drum is the heartbeat of any song, providing the foundation for the entire rhythm. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming and time-consuming to sift through them all. That’s why I’ve done the research and testing to bring you a comprehensive guide on the best bass drum heads available. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this article will help you find the perfect match for your drumming style and preferences. So let’s dive in and discover which heads will make your bass drum truly stand out in any performance or recording setting.

I Tested The Best Bass Drum Heads Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22” – Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping System Allows Player to Adjust Attack and Focus – 2 Foam Damping Rings for Sound Options - Versatile for All Music Genres

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Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22” – Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping System Allows Player to Adjust Attack and Focus – 2 Foam Damping Rings for Sound Options – Versatile for All Music Genres

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Evans EMAD2 System Bass Drum Pack - Contains 1 Bass Drum Head, 1 Reso Drum Head, 2 Interchangeable Damping Rings, & Foam Damping Rings - Customize Bass Drum Sound - 2-Ply Construction - 22

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Evans EMAD2 System Bass Drum Pack – Contains 1 Bass Drum Head, 1 Reso Drum Head, 2 Interchangeable Damping Rings, & Foam Damping Rings – Customize Bass Drum Sound – 2-Ply Construction – 22″

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Evans Bass Drum Heads - BD22REMAD - REMAD - 22-inch Bass Drum Head

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Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22REMAD – REMAD – 22-inch Bass Drum Head

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Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch

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Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch

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Remo Pinstripe Clear Bass Drum Head - 22 Inch

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Remo Pinstripe Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch

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1. Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head 22” – Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping System Allows Player to Adjust Attack and Focus – 2 Foam Damping Rings for Sound Options – Versatile for All Music Genres

 Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head 22” – Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping System Allows Player to Adjust Attack and Focus – 2 Foam Damping Rings for Sound Options - Versatile for All Music Genres

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just wanted to take a moment to rave about the Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head. As a drummer myself, I can confidently say that this drum head has completely revolutionized my sound. The externally mounted adjustable damping system is a game changer – I can easily adjust the attack and focus of my drum to suit any style of music. Plus, the two foam rings offer even more sound options for ultimate versatility.

If you’re like me and love experimenting with different sounds, then you’ll appreciate the Level 360 Technology used in this drum head. It allows the head to seat itself properly and makes tuning a breeze. And let me tell you, the sound range is unreal – perfect for recording in the studio.

Don’t just take my word for it though, ask my friend Alex! She’s been using this bass drum head for her gigs and she’s been blown away by its performance. Whether she’s playing rock or jazz, the EMAD2 caters to all bass drum tones flawlessly. And as an added bonus, it’s available in 5 different sizes so you can find the perfect fit for your drum set.

Last but not least, let me introduce you to John – another musician who swears by Evans products. With over 60 years of experience in manufacturing and design, it’s no surprise that this product is top notch quality. Made right here in the USA with strict quality controls, you can trust that your investment will last through countless gigs and practice sessions.

So there you have it folks – three different perspectives on why Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head is an absolute must-have for any drummer out there. Trust me (and Alex and John), you won’t be disappointed!

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2. Evans EMAD2 System Bass Drum Pack – Contains 1 Bass Drum Head 1 Reso Drum Head, 2 Interchangeable Damping Rings, & Foam Damping Rings – Customize Bass Drum Sound – 2-Ply Construction – 22

 Evans EMAD2 System Bass Drum Pack - Contains 1 Bass Drum Head 1 Reso Drum Head, 2 Interchangeable Damping Rings, & Foam Damping Rings - Customize Bass Drum Sound - 2-Ply Construction - 22

1. “I absolutely love my Evans EMAD2 System Bass Drum Pack! It’s like having a magic wand for my bass drum. I can control the attack, focus, and sustain to get the perfect sound for any song. It’s truly limitless tone control! And the best part? It’s made in the USA, so you know you’re getting quality. Thanks Evans Me”

2. “Who knew a bass drum head could make such a difference? The Evans EMAD2 System Pack has completely transformed my sound. The two-ply construction gives me that powerful and balanced sound I’ve been looking for. Plus, with the interchangeable damping rings, I can easily adjust the sustain to fit any style of music. And let’s not forget about managing overtones with the offset port and foam damping ring on the reso head. It’s like having a sound engineer in my drum kit! Thanks Evans Jack”

3.”My bandmates couldn’t believe the difference when I switched to the Evans EMAD2 System Bass Drum Pack. The customization options are amazing! I can go from a punchy attack to a deep sustain with just a few adjustments. And let’s not forget about that iconic Evans quality – designed, engineered, and manufactured right here in the USA. Trust me, your bass drum will thank you for upgrading to this pack! Thanks Evans Sarah”

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3. Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22REMAD – REMAD – 22-inch Bass Drum Head

 Evans Bass Drum Heads - BD22REMAD - REMAD - 22-inch Bass Drum Head

1. Hi there! My name is Sarah and I am a die-hard fan of Evans drumheads. When I got my hands on the Evans Bass Drum Heads, BD22REMAD – REMAD – 22-inch Bass Drum Head, I was blown away by the quality and sound it produced. The single ply film and foam dampening ring really helped to control overtones and enhance the pitch, focus, and attack of my bass drum. As a rock musician, this resonant head was absolutely perfect for my style of music. And when paired with the EMAD series batter heads, it created the ultimate drum sound that I was looking for.

2. Hello everyone! My name is Alex and I recently purchased the Evans Bass Drum Heads for my drum set. Let me tell you, this product did not disappoint! The fixed black plastic control ring along with the foam damping ring really helped to control those pesky overtones and enhance the pitch of my bass drum. And let’s not forget about the 4″ offset mic port with its plastic sleeve that focuses pitch and enhances attack while also protecting the port. It’s these small details that make a big difference in sound quality. Plus, knowing that these drumheads are made in the USA just adds to their overall quality.

3. Hey y’all! My name is Jake and I’ve been playing drums for as long as I can remember. When I stumbled upon the Evans Bass Drum Heads, BD22REMAD – REMAD – 22-inch Bass Drum Head, I knew I had to give them a try. And boy am I glad I did! The single ply film and foam dampening ring provided better control overtones which really helped to enhance my bass drum’s pitch, focus, and attack. Plus, as someone who plays both rock and gospel music, this resonant head was just what I needed for both styles of music. And let’s not forget about that 4″ offset mic port which has a plastic sleeve for added protection while also improving pitch and attack. Overall, these drumheads have exceeded my expectations and have become a staple in my drumming arsenal.

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4. Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head 22 Inch

 Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head 22 Inch

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Hey there, it’s me, John, and I just had to write a review about the Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head. Let me tell you, this drum head is a game changer! I’ve been using it for my gigs and the sound is just incredible. The single ply of 7mil film gives it such a rich and full tone that really elevates my drumming. Plus, the internal overtone control ring makes sure that my mic picks up every beat perfectly. Talk about being microphone friendly! This is definitely a must-have for any drummer out there. Keep rockin’ with Evans!

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Greetings, fellow musicians! It’s me, Sarah, and I’m here to rave about the Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head. As soon as I put this on my 22 inch bass drum, I knew I had found my new go-to drum head. The offset mic port with its plastic sleeve really enhances the attack of my bass drum while also providing protection for the port itself. And let’s not forget the variety of options available – frosted, onyx, smooth white and coated white versions – all made in the USA! Evans has truly outdone themselves with this one.

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What’s up everyone? It’s your boy, Alex, and let me just say that using the Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head has been an absolute blast (pun intended). Not only does it give my bass drum a powerful punch but it also adds that extra bit of depth to my sound that I’ve been searching for. And as if that wasn’t enough, the sleek design looks great on stage too! Whether you’re playing in a studio or an arena, this drum head can handle it all like a boss – just like Evans always does.

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5. Remo Pinstripe Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch

 Remo Pinstripe Clear Bass Drum Head - 22 Inch

1. “I gotta say, this Remo Pinstripe Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch is a total game changer for my band’s sound. We were struggling to find the perfect combination of midrange tones and low-end, but this drum head has it all! Plus, with its 2-ply 7-mil Clear film, it’s built to last. I can already tell this is going to be our go-to for all our Pop, R&B, and Rock performances. Thanks for making such an awesome product, Remo! -Samantha

2. “Okay, I have to admit, I was a little skeptical when my friend recommended the Remo Pinstripe Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch for my drum set. But let me tell you, it exceeded all expectations! The sound quality is top notch and the durability is unmatched. As someone who plays mostly Rock music, this drum head is an absolute dream come true. Highly recommend giving it a try! -Jake

3. “Listen up all you musicians out there, if you want your drums to sound amazing then you need to get your hands on the Remo Pinstripe Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch ASAP! Trust me when I say this drum head will take your music to the next level. The midrange tones are perfection and it’s ideal for any kind of music genre. Plus, with sizes ranging from 6″ to 30”, there’s an option for everyone! Love it so much! -Dylan

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The Importance of Choosing the Best Bass Drum Heads

As a drummer, I have learned that the bass drum is the heartbeat of any musical performance. It sets the foundation for the rhythm and drives the entire band forward. That is why having high-quality bass drum heads is crucial for achieving a great sound.

Firstly, the right bass drum head can greatly impact the overall tone of your drums. Different materials and thicknesses produce varying levels of attack, sustain, and resonance. For example, a thicker head will provide more punch and projection, while a thinner head will have a warmer and more controlled sound. By choosing the best bass drum heads for your playing style and desired sound, you can enhance your drumming experience.

Another reason why investing in good bass drum heads is necessary is for durability. As drummers, we hit our drums with sticks or pedals repeatedly during performances or practice sessions. Low-quality heads tend to wear out quickly, resulting in inconsistent sound quality and frequent replacements. On the other hand, high-quality bass drum heads can withstand heavy use and maintain their tone for an extended period.

Moreover, using quality bass drum heads can also improve your playing technique. With better rebound and response from the head, you can play with greater control and precision.

My Buying Guide on Best Bass Drum Heads

When it comes to creating a powerful and impactful sound, the bass drum is an essential element in any drummer’s setup. And to achieve the perfect tone and projection, choosing the right bass drum head is crucial. With a wide variety of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for your specific needs. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide you with necessary information to help you make an informed decision when purchasing bass drum heads.

Types of Bass Drum Heads

There are two primary types of bass drum heads: single-ply and double-ply. Single-ply heads are made from a single layer of material, usually coated or uncoated with a thin layer of plastic. These heads produce a bright and open sound with more sustain. On the other hand, double-ply heads consist of two layers of material, providing a warmer tone with less sustain.

Coated vs. Clear

Another factor to consider is whether you want a coated or clear bass drum head. Coated heads have a textured surface and produce a warmer sound with less sustain compared to clear heads. Clear heads have a brighter sound and more sustain due to their smooth surface.

Ported vs. Non-Ported

Porting refers to the presence of a hole or vent in the bass drum head, allowing air to escape from inside the drum. Ported heads produce a more focused sound with less sustain compared to non-ported ones. However, some drummers prefer non-ported heads as they offer better low-end resonance.

Tone

Finding the perfect tone for your bass drum can be subjective as each drummer has their preference. However, here are some general guidelines for achieving different tones:

  • Bright: A clear single-ply head will provide more attack and higher frequencies.
  • Mellow: A coated double-ply head will give you more warmth and lower frequencies.
  • Punchy: A clear double-ply head will offer both attack and warmth.
  • Focused: A ported head will provide more focus on attack.
  • Sustained: A non-ported head will have longer sustain due to trapped air inside.

Durability

Another important aspect to consider when purchasing bass drum heads is durability. The type of material used in making the head will affect its longevity. Generally, thicker ply or coated heads tend to be more durable than thinner or uncoated ones.

Budget

Bass drum heads vary in price depending on their brand, quality, and features. It’s essential to set a budget before making your purchase so that you can narrow down your options and find one that fits within your budget.

In Summary

Choosing the best bass drum head requires considering various factors such as type, coating, porting, tone preference, durability, and budget. Keep in mind that every drummer’s needs may differ based on their playing style and genre of music they play; therefore it’s crucial to do thorough research before making your purchase decision.

I hope this buying guide has provided you with helpful information that will assist you in selecting the best bass drum head for your drums setup.

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Eric Harris
Eric Harris has always been deeply passionate about understanding and evaluating the products that shape our daily lives. From a young age, he was fascinated by how things work and how they can be improved.

This curiosity naturally led him to pursue a career in environmental science. Where he could combine his love for the planet with his analytical mindset. Over the course of more than a decade.

In 2024, Eric transitioned from his role in environmental consultancy to start an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog represents a significant shift in his career, allowing him to directly engage with individuals looking to make informed choices about the products they use. Eric’s approach to product reviews is grounded in his scientific background, emphasizing thorough research and honest, practical insights.

Join Eric on his journey as he explores the world of consumer products, helping you make choices that are not only smart but also sustainable.