The right bass drum resonant head shapes overtones, sustain, and projection for both recording and live gigs. This guide highlights five top 22-inch and 20/22-inch Evans options and compatible resonant heads that suit different playing styles and venues. Ideal buyers include studio engineers, live performers, and educators seeking controlled attack and clear mic compatibility. Below, compare construction, overtones control, and practical use cases to pick the best fit.
| Product | Size | Construction | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head | 22″ | Single ply 7mil | Studio to arena, mic-friendly | Internal overtone control ring, 5″ mic port |
| Evans BD22REMAD REMAD 22-inch | 22″ | Single ply with foam damping ring | Rock and gospel tones, EMAD compatibility | Fixed damping ring for overtone control |
| Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle | 22″ | Two-ply batter with damping rings | Customizable attack, focus, sustain | Interchangeable damping rings |
| Resonant Bass Drum Head 22 Inch with Microphone hole | 22″ | Resonant head with mic hole | Recording and live with mic access | Universal fit, durable materials |
| Evans EQ3 Resonant Coated White Bass Drum Head | 22″ | Single ply 6.5mil | Clear attack with mic compatibility | Internal overtone control ring, mic port |
Note: This table highlights five strong options for players who want reliable resonance control, straightforward installation, and compatibility with common recording and live setups. Each entry includes a practical strength and a key limitation to guide decision-making.
Evans EQ3 Resonant Black 22-Inch Bass Drum Head
Construction features a single 7mil ply for a focused low-end and clear overtones. The fixed internal overtone control ring is designed to be microphone friendly, supporting consistent sound from studio to stage. The 5″ offset mic port with a plastic sleeve helps pitch balance while protecting the port. Best for: players who want precise resonance with solid mic compatibility for studio or live use. Caution: mic port protection is effective but still requires careful mic placement to avoid rattling in high-volume settings.
Evans BD22REMAD REMAD 22-Inch Bass Drum Head
Single-ply film with a foam damping ring delivers controlled overtones, focus, and attack. Designed to be compatible with EMAD-style batter heads for a cohesive sound. Best for: rock and gospel players seeking a resonant head that tightens up overtones while maintaining a strong punch. Caution: the included damping may reduce sustain, which may be a limitation for some ultra-long decay styles.
Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle
The EMAD2 system pack offers limitless tone control with two-ply batter construction and interchangeable damping rings. The reso head includes a foam damping edge for enhanced overtone control, while the batter head focuses on maximizing impact and low-end. Best for: players who want precise, on-the-fly control over attack, sustain, and overall tonal balance. Caution: more components to manage can require setup time for optimal tuning.
Evans EQ3 Resonant Coated White 22-Inch
This 22″ head uses a 6.5mil single ply with an internal overtone control ring to help mic placement translate cleanly from studio to stage. The 5″ offset mic port is fitted with a plastic sleeve for protection and pitch stability. Best for: players who prefer a slightly thinner material for quicker attack and a brighter resonance. Caution: thinner ply may be more susceptible to dents or wear with heavy use.
Buying Guide
What matters most when choosing a bass drum resonant head?
- Head material and ply count: Thinner heads (6.5–7 mil) tend to yield quicker attack and brighter tone, while thicker heads offer more durability and smoother overtones.
- Overtone control: Internal rings help suppress excess ring and improve mic clarity. Look for a fixed ring if you want predictable results across gigs.
- Microphone access: A dedicated mic port or hole simplifies mic placement and reduces airspace clutter. Ensure the port size suits your mic models.
- Compatibility with batter heads: Some resonant heads are designed to pair with specific EMAD or other system heads for a cohesive sound.
- Application style: Studio tracking benefits from controlled sustain and minimal bleed; live performances may favor more focused projection and quick re-tuning.
What to consider by playing style
- Studio recording: Prioritize mic-friendly, controlled overtones and a stable pitch center for clean capture.
- Live performance: Choose heads with durable construction, strong projection, and reliable mic ports for stage acoustics.
- Education or rehearsal spaces: Look for versatile options with predictable response and easy setup for beginners.
FAQ
- Q: What is a resonant bass drum head used for?
A: It is the drum head on the opposite side of the batter head, providing tonal control, sustain, and amplification clarity, especially with microphones. - Q: Why use a head with an overtone control ring?
A: It helps reduce unwanted ring, improves focus, and makes mic placement more predictable across venues. - Q: Are 22-inch heads standard for most bass drums?
A: Yes, 22 inches is the most common size, though some kits use 20-inch variants; always measure your drum shell before purchasing. - Q: Do damping rings affect durability?
A: Damping rings primarily affect tone and sustain; they can add some wear protection to the edge but are not a durability guarantee. - Q: Should I mix brands for EMAD systems with other heads?
A: It’s possible, but for best tonal balance, match a resonant head with compatible dampening features to the batter head you intend to use.