12 best bass drum heads

Bass drum heads are an essential component of a drum kit, specifically designed for the bass drum, also known as the kick drum. They play a crucial role in shaping the sound of the drum and can significantly impact the overall tone and projection of the instrument. Here are some key aspects of bass drum heads:

  1. Materials: Bass drum heads are typically made from two main materials: plastic (usually Mylar) and animal skin (usually calfskin or goatskin). Mylar heads are more common in modern drumming due to their durability and consistency, while animal skin heads are favored by some drummers for their unique warm and organic sound.

  2. Single-Ply vs. Double-Ply: Drumheads can be either single-ply or double-ply. Single-ply heads are thinner and tend to produce a more resonant and open sound, while double-ply heads are thicker and offer more durability and control over the sound.

  3. Clear vs.Coated: Bass drum heads are available in both clear and coated versions. Clear heads produce a brighter and more focused sound, while coated heads provide a slightly warmer and more mellow tone. The choice between clear and coated is a matter of personal preference and musical style.

  4. Dampening and Port Holes: To control the resonance and sustain of the bass drum, some drummers use dampening techniques, such as placing pillows or blankets inside the drum. Additionally, many bass drum heads come with a built-in port hole, which can be covered or uncovered to adjust the amount of airflow and resonance.

  5. Branding and Graphics: Bass drum heads often feature branding, logos, or custom graphics. These designs can be purely aesthetic or serve as a way for drummers to personalize their drum kit.

  6. Tuning: Proper tuning of the bass drum head is essential to achieve the desired sound. Drummers use a drum key to tighten or loosen the tension rods around the drum's rim, adjusting the pitch and tone of the drum.

  7. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and replacing damaged heads, is crucial to keep the bass drum sounding its best. Mylar heads are generally more resistant to wear and tear than animal skin heads.

  8. Sound Control: In addition to the type of head used, other factors like the size of the bass drum, the type of beater, and the presence of muffling devices can all influence the sound of the bass drum.

In conclusion, bass drum heads are a fundamental component of a drum kit, and choosing the right one is essential for achieving the desired sound. Drummers often experiment with different head types, tunings, and dampening methods to tailor their bass drum's sound to fit the musical context.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bass drum heads on the market
  

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22 inch Custom Bass Drum Head DECAL

Based on 53 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Custom, Personalized 22 Bass Drum Head DECAL. (This Does NOT include the drum head, this is just a sticker) Professional, Commercial Grade Vinyl - same material we use for our outdoor signs that last 3-5 years (even longer indoors!). 6mil vinyl. Thicker, semi-rigid vinyl makes installation a breeze. Made by drummers for drummers! Owner of the shop has been in the printing business since 1992, also a drummer! Installation instructions included. Easily adhere to your existing drum head. PLEASE NOTE: WE PRINT THE ART FILES THAT WE ARE GIVEN, so please supply your art file at 150dpi or higher, at the exact size of the decal you're ordering. Web resolution graphics at 72dpi will produce undesirable results. We cannot be responsible for low-quality output from low-resolution uploads. Our print quality is 720dpi high resolution and requires high-resolution files in order to print clearly and achieve desirable results. We make an effort to contact customers who submit low-resolution files before the item is printed. If we get no response in 1 business day, then the order will be printed with low-resolution customer submitted art at full responsibility of the customer. Please contact us if you would like us to help with your design.

  • Personalized 22 inch Bass Drum Head Decal. DRUM HEAD NOT INCLUDED
  • Upload your band logo or finished design. File size should be actual size of head at 150dpi.
  • We will add your logo or band name to any of our designs upon request.
  • If you need a custom design or adjustments to your file please contact us.
  • High Quality matte vinyl material. Easy to install.

User questions & answers

Question: How long will it take to receive this
Answer: It's shipped from Amazon. Please don't worry about it, all the items from Asonway come with 12 months guarantee. You can contact the seller.
Question: How do you know if it's a coated drum head
Answer: Yes, The Machine is nice size and works nicely. Love this sound system
Question: I have a port hole on my drum head so I need it to be offset. How do I place that order
Answer: Yes!
Question: Where are Stock images
Answer: Yes it can. The quality of the microphone in my opinion is 8/10. It does the job, but you have to press your lips literally on the microphone head to get decent audio.

Evans Calftone Bass Drum Head, 22"

Evans

Based on 86 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Calftone drumheads are a synthetic alternative to traditional calfskin. These heads embody the calfskin look and sound but with the consistency, fit, and tuning range made standard with Level 360 Technology. Calftone is made using a blend of unique materials to produce warm, full, and rich tones. These heads bring out the best of a vintage kit and evoke a classic appearance and sound from modern drums.

  • 22" drum head for resonant or batter use
  • Calftone is a synthetic alternative that embodies the look and sound of traditional calfskin
  • Made using a blend of unique materials to produce warm, full, and rich tones
  • Exclusive Level 360 Technology collar design ensures proper contact between drum head and drum shell
  • Bring out the best of a vintage kit and evoke a classic appearance and sound from modern drum

User questions & answers

Question: Can I use this as a resonance head
Answer: Best way I have found is to get a non ported head and apply sticker, then using a port cutter place the hole wherever you want it in the design
Question: Can I use this specific drum head as a resonance head
Answer: where are the stock images?

Ludwig Bass Drum Heads (LW1222P3SWV)

Ludwig

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ludwig PS3 22" Smooth white bass drum head w/ script logo.

  • Product Type: Instrument Parts And Accessories
  • Package Dimensions: 2.8 L X 54.7 W X 59 H (Centimeters)
  • Package Weight: 0.857 Kilograms
  • Country Of Origin: United States

User questions & answers

Question: what is the diameter of this drum head
Answer: A drum head with a rough texture is coated. A smooth head is uncoated.

Evans EMAD System Pack, 22” (2pc) – Includes Batter Bass Drumhead and Resonant Drumhead -Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping System Allows Player to Adjust Attack and Focus Without Removing Drumhead

Evans

Based on 363 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whether you play rock, blues, country or metal, the Evans EMAD System Pack is for you. Named for the externally mounted adjustable damping (EMAD), the versatile system caters to all bass drum tones by allowing each player to control the attack and focus of the drum head by choosing one of two removable foam damping rings. Choosing the thinner foam ring allows for punch and focus without sacrificing resonance, while choosing the wider foam ring maximizes the low end and attack of any bass drum. A consumer favorite, the EMAD system value pack is an economical way to get both a front and back drumhead. It includes one 22” EMAD batter bass drumhead featuring a single ply of 10mil film providing an ideal balance of punch, power and low-end. Plus, one 22” REMAD resonant drumhead featuring an offset 4" microphone port in a single ply of 10mil film. A black, noise-free plastic sleeve on the resonant drumhead holds a foam dampening ring around the edge of the microphone port which controls overtones, enhancing pitch focus and attack. Enhanced with revolutionary Level 360 technology, the bass drumheads are easier to tune, with a wider tonal range than ever before. Applying the new Level 360 collar shape to the EMAD bass drumheads provides heads that are easier to tune and a wider tonal range for a sound that is studio ready. For over 60 years, Evans Drumheads has been a pioneer in drum head manufacturing and design. Now part of D’Addario & Company, Inc., Evans products are proudly made in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the USA to the most stringent quality controls in the industry. The D’Addario family’s heart, soul and love for making music is put into every drum and accessory we create, and we never stop inspiring performance.

  • EMAD SYSTEM– The Evans batter bass drumhead and resonant drumhead have an externally mounted adjustable damping system (EMAD) that allows each player to control the attack and focus of the drum head by choosing one of two removable foam damping rings.
  • EMAD BATTER BASS - The Evans EMAD system value pack includes one 22” EMAD batter bass drumhead featuring a single ply of 10mil film providing an ideal balance of punch, power and low-end.
  • REMAD RESONANT BASS – The set also includes 1, 22” REMAD resonant drumhead featuring an offset 4" microphone port in a single ply of 10mil film .
  • LEVEL 360 TECHNOLOGY – A Level 360 collar allows the Evans bass drumheads to seat properly and in turn provides heads that are easier to tune and a wider tonal range for a sound that is studio ready.
  • MADE IN THE USA - For over 60 years, Evans has been a pioneer in drum head manufacturing and design. Regarded for high quality and consistency all Evans drumheads are proudly designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA to the most stringent quality controls in the industry.

User questions & answers

Question: what is the size of the hole
Answer: I'm not sure but I can just slide my beta sm 91 in there. Shure mic
Question: Is evans emad system pack, 22 inch comes in 2 pcs (front & back
Answer: Yes
Question: Does it come with the hardware needed to attach to the base drum
Answer: It comes with a batter head and a ported front head but hardware. You would use the lugs and claws that are on your bass drum if you have them.
Question: I have a tension watch for my drum heads what should I tune this head to to play heavy metal
Answer: Loosen all the lugs first , then finger tighten all the lugs , push down on the rim with both hands and body weight in 4 different points , then finger tighten the lugs again . Once that is done 1/4 turn all the lugs than 1/4 turn all the lugs again . That what I do . If your personal preference is tighter than that use 1/4 turns only so you don't have the rim and the head seat uneven . If their is to much boom tighten the front head 1/4 turns and try it until the boom is gone or as close to gone as you can get it . I also have a pillow in it to soak up the sound . Hope this helps you .

Product features

Evans EMAD System Pack, 22” (2pc) – Includes Batter Bass Drumhead and Resonant Drumhead

Adjust attack and focus easier. Balance your power, punch, and low end. The EMAD (Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping) system from Evans is for drummers.

Aquarian Drumheads Super-Kick II Drumhead Pack (SKII22)

AQUARIAN DRUMHEADS

Based on 563 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Aquarian drumheads SKII22 super-kick II double ply 22-inch bass drum head.

  • Clear super-kick II
  • Two 7mil plies
  • Built in floating felt muffle ring
  • Full low end sound
  • No extra muffling needed

User questions & answers

Question: Will this help my beginner drum set bass drum sound better or am i just doomed
Answer: 22 inches
Question: Does this come with both heads for the bass drum
Answer: Yes.i didn't have good results..it might have been the cheap kit I put it on.looks nice for sure.i like a really fat punch on my bass..it didn't achive it..it may work better on a higher end kit
Question: What is different between the sk122 and the sk
Answer: Yes. I use one on my own kick drum.
Question: What is different between the sk1122 and sk
Answer: Few days

Remo P31322-10 Clear Powerstroke 3 Bass Drum Head - 22-Inch - Black Dot

Remo

Based on 163 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The clear Powerstroke3 features a thin underlay at the outer edge of the head to subtly dampen unwanted overtones. This creates a near-perfect balance of response and tone control that has quickly Made power stroke 3 one of Remo’s most preferred drumheads.

  • 22" diameter bass drum head with black dot
  • Features a thin underlay at the outer edge of the head to subtly dampen unwanted overtones
  • Near-perfect balance of response and tone control
  • One of Remo’s most preferred resonant bass drumheads

User questions & answers

Question: Do you guys that use this head still put a Falam patch or does the dot make it durable enough? Thanks
Answer: I think the sk122 is a single ply head while the sk1122 is a double ply head i think ???
Question: Is 22in the od measurement? i’m trying to replace a peavey
Answer: The SK1122 stands for SuperKick 2ply 22inch diameter. sk112 is a misspelling.

Product features

Powerstroke P3 Clear Black Dot

The Powerstroke 3 Clear Top Black Dot features midrange and low-end resonant tones with increased attack, projection and durability. Inspired by legendary drummer Steve Smith, the Powerstroke 3 Top Black Dot is constructed with 10-mil Clear film and a 10-mil inlay at the outer edge of the head to subtly dampen unwanted overtones. The added 5-mil Black Dot provides deeper low tones and focused attack. Available in sizes 18" - 26".

About Remo

For 60 years Remo has led the way in synthetic drumhead and shell development to enhance and expand the possibilities of percussion.

Remo D Belli was a percussion pioneer. In 1957, he invented the first successful synthetic Mylar drumheads, today’s industry standard. For over 60 years, Remo, Inc. has constantly and consistently broken new ground when it comes to industry firsts. Ultimately, when it comes to our expertise as a drumhead manufacturer, nothing can touch the technical and musical advantages that Remo Drumheads provide.

Anyone who has experienced a drum circle, jam or performance knows the transformative effect of rhythm. It moves, inspires and thrills. From street corners, parks, beaches, community centers, wellness centers, concerts and schools, drums are tools that connect us on a deep rhythmic level. Drumming is an interactive community tool that promotes wellbeing and life enhancement. At Remo, we are committed to ensuring that everyone has a chance to revel in this activity. Through our ongoing efforts, the professional, the enthusiast, the children, the elderly, the at-risk, and those with disabilities are brought the joy of drumming.

Evans EQ4 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch

Evans

Based on 88 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Warm with pronounced low-end and punch, the 10mil 1-ply EQ4 provides durability and a woody attack that speaks live and in the studio. The width of the internal control ring varies in proportion to head diameter, giving control to larger drums and lower tunings.

From the Manufacturer

Evans 22" clear EQ4 single-ply bass head contains an internal overtone control ring with a removable muffle ring for optimal slap without sacrificing bottom end.

Evans EQ4 series features a special, single ply of 10mil film that provides durability and a woody attack that speaks live and in the studio.. The fixed internal ring is proportional to the head size, optimizing control from 18" to 26".

For over 40 years, Evans has been a pioneer of drum head manufacturing and design. Known for innovative designs such as EMAD, EC2S, and the Hydraulic series, Evans drum heads are made in the USA in a state of the art manufacturing facility. Acquired in 1996 by D’Addario and Company, the global leader in musical instrument accessories, the Evans brand is synonymous with quality and consistency.

  • 22" drum head made using a special, single ply 10mil film
  • An internal overtone control ring and a removable muffle ring coupled with dry-vents work extremely well with and without a microphone
  • Very versatile head for all music genres; a true working drummer's choice
  • Also available in a frosted version
  • All Evans drum heads are designed, engineered and manufactured in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: Would this head go well with the evans eq3 resonant head? drums are played at a church and typically play rock style music
Answer: The 22inch measurement is the over diameter.
Question: My drum measures 25.5" will a 26" work
Answer: It will definitely make it sound much better. I always kinda thought all drum heads are the same and never wanted to spend the money on a better head, but this plays a lot better and gives any bass drum more low end thump. Pull the trigger!
Question: Anyone had a problem with evans 22 inch bass head not fitting? i have a 79 ludwig set and the e head is too large for the hoops. period heads fit fine
Answer: As stated no, but it's one of if not the best sounding heads. You won't be disappointed!

Remo Silentstroke Bass Drumhead, 22"

Remo

Based on 720 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Ambassador Silentstroke drumheads are the ultimate in low volume drumheads, designed for quiet practice applications where standard drumset volumes are an issue. Constructed with 1-ply mesh material, Ambassador Silentstroke drumheads provide a soft spring-like feel at very low decibel levels. Available is sizes 6" - 24".

  • The ultimate in low volume drumheads
  • Durable 1-ply mesh
  • Ideal for apartments, condos and dormitories
  • Available is sizes 6" - 24"
  • Works well with external electronic triggers

User questions & answers

Question: When installing on my snare, I’ve noticed that it vibrates like crazy and produces a lot of excess sound when hitting the other heads...any tips
Answer: I'm sure it would work just fine. I play oldies rock with an EQ3.
Question: I need 10", 12", 14", 16" & 22" Remo silent stroke drumheads. Is it possible to order these measures all in one shipping to Israel? Thanks
Answer: I don't know. I only use 22's.
Question: What is the difference between this 18" head and the 18" bass drum head? Why is the latter $10 more
Answer: I have EQ4s on both a 22 an a 20 bass. Both fit fine.
Question: can i replace the current mesh heads on my alesis command and put these on it
Answer: The patch still helps prolong the drum head integrity at the beater site

Product features

Silentstroke

The Ambassador Silentstroke drumheads are the ultimate in low volume drumheads, designed for quiet practice applications where standard drumset volumes are an issue. Constructed with 1-ply mesh material, Ambassador Silentstroke drumheads provide a soft spring-like feel at very low decibel levels. Available is sizes 6" - 24".

About Remo

For 60 years Remo has led the way in synthetic drumhead and shell development to enhance and expand the possibilities of percussion.

Remo D Belli was a percussion pioneer. In 1957, he invented the first successful synthetic Mylar drumheads, today’s industry standard. For over 60 years, Remo, Inc. has constantly and consistently broken new ground when it comes to industry firsts. Ultimately, when it comes to our expertise as a drumhead manufacturer, nothing can touch the technical and musical advantages that Remo Drumheads provide.

Anyone who has experienced a drum circle, jam or performance knows the transformative effect of rhythm. It moves, inspires and thrills. From street corners, parks, beaches, community centers, wellness centers, concerts and schools, drums are tools that connect us on a deep rhythmic level. Drumming is an interactive community tool that promotes wellbeing and life enhancement. At Remo, we are committed to ensuring that everyone has a chance to revel in this activity. Through our ongoing efforts, the professional, the enthusiast, the children, the elderly, the at-risk, and those with disabilities are brought the joy of drumming.

Remo Powerstroke P4 Coated Bass Drumhead, 22"

Remo

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Remo power stroke P4 Coated bass drumhead, 22".

  • Country of Origin: UNITED STATES
  • The Package Length of the Product is 59.69 centimeters
  • The Package Width of the Product is 58.928 centimeters
  • The Package Height of the Product is 2.794 centimeters

Evans EQ Double Pedal Patch, Black Nylon,EQPB2

Evans

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Made for double-pedal, this non-slip black nylon bass drum patch softens attack slightly and strengthens the head without affecting sustain or low-end.

From the Manufacturer

Evans EQPB2 is a clear non-slip plastic bass drum patch which increases attach and strengthen the head without affecting sound quality.

Evans Bass Drum patches are applied directly to the bass head which allows protection of the head. Available in single pedal and double pedal versions.

For over 40 years, Evans has been a pioneer of drum head manufacturing and design. Known for innovative designs such as EMAD, EC2S, and the Hydraulic series, Evans drum heads are made in the USA in a state of the art manufacturing facility. Acquired in 1996 by D’Addario and Company, the global leader in musical instrument accessories, the Evans brand is synonymous with quality and consistency.

  • Double pedal black version
  • Protects the bass drum head from pedal fatigue
  • 2 patches per package
  • Increases attack without affecting sustain or low end
  • All Evans drum heads are designed, engineered and manufactured in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: is the black double pad 2 separate pads or one single wide pad
Answer: Hi,,,i don't use the silent strokes on my snare i use a Rtom Black hole it is a drop on snare head and sits about an inch away from the head and has a rubber lip...i play my snare flat so i rim shot a lot and with the remo i would hit the rim this drop on works better for my style,, i do use all remo silents on the toms and the kicks and they work out great...Hope this helped a little
Question: Would this patch work on mesh heads (V-Drums
Answer: You should be able to do that.
Question: How big are these
Answer: The metal U-shaped hoop on a bass drum mesh head projects out farther from the edge of the head itself, and is also taller than the flatter metal hoop of a tom head. The bass drum head won't fit within an 18-inch metal tom rim. I found this out the hard way when I ordered Roland PowerPly (also made by Remo) mesh heads for my two acoustic kits. They don't make an 18-inch PowerPly tom head, so I ordered an 18-inch bass drum head, thinking it would work on a tom. It didn't. So that's why I bought the 1-ply 18-inch Remo Silentstroke. The PowerPlys are better and stronger 2-ply heads (though more expensive), made just like the Roland mesh heads for V-drums. But since I don't use the 18-inch tom that much, the Silentstroke's thinner 1-ply head shouldn't be a problem. Note: The Roland PowerPly mesh heads are not yet available in the U.S. (at least they weren't when I ordered mine in September). I had to order them from drum-tec in Germany (I live in Iowa), which worked just fine (only needing to pay a $26 duty fee to UPS when they arrived, and the 25-euro ($26 U.S. dollars) shipping fee to drum-tec). If you're just using the mesh heads for quiet practice on an acoustic kit, they work great. And if you want to use them to convert your acoustic kit into a hybrid kit by using drum triggers like the new Roland RT-30 series triggers and a decent Roland sound module, they turn your acoustic kit into a great-souding electronic kit that has the great look of your acoustic kit. (Don't worry, I'm just a drummer, not a Roland salesman.) I've played acoustic kits for the last 50 years and electronic kits for the last 12 years. And now I can use my 1969 Slingerland kit or my 2002 DW kit as either. Hope this helps.
Question: title says clear plastic, description says black, which is it
Answer: Yes these will work on your Alesis kit.

Product features

EQ PATCH

Evans EQ Patch is a black non-slip flexible nylon bass drum patch which increases attack and strengthens the head without affecting sound quality.

  • Protects the bass drumhead from pedal fatigue
  • 2 patches per package
  • Increases attack without affecting sustain or low end
  • All Evans drumheads are designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA

EQPB1

Evans EQPB1 is a black non-slip flexible nylon bass drum patch which increases attack and strengthens the head without affecting sound quality.

EQPB2

Evans EQPB2 is a black non-slip flexible nylon bass drum patch for double-pedals, which increases attack and strengthens the head without affecting sound quality.

EQPC1

Evans EQPC1 is a clear non-slip plastic bass drum patch which increases attack and strengthens the head without affecting sound quality.

EQPC2

Evans EQPC2 is a clear non-slip plastic bass drum patch for double-pedals, which increases attack and strengthens the head without affecting sound quality.

Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 18 Inch

Evans

Based on 394 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A 7mil resonant head with an offset 5" microphone port and an internal overtone control ring, the EQ3 delivers a warm and punchy sound with a controlled, short decay that's ideal for both live and studio applications.

From the Manufacturer

Evans 18" black single-ply bass head with an internal overtone control ring delivers a warm and punchy sound with a controlled, short decay that's ideal for both live and studio application.

Evans EQ3 series features 7 mil of single-ply film and is a popular choice for both players and engineers. With an internal overtone control ring, the EQ3 delivers a warm and punchy sound with a controlled, short decay that's ideal for both live and studio application. The 5" offset mic port features a plastic sleeve, focuses pitch and enhances the attach while providing protection for the port.

For over 40 years, Evans has been a pioneer of drum head manufacturing and design. Known for innovative designs such as EMAD, EC2S, and the Hydraulic series, Evans drum heads are made in the USA in a state of the art manufacturing facility. Acquired in 1996 by D’Addario and Company, the global leader in musical instrument accessories, the Evans brand is synonymous with quality and consistency.

  • 18" resonant drum head made using a single ply of 7mil film
  • A fixed, internal overtone control ring is made to be microphone friendly, from the studio to arena
  • The 5" offset mic port features a plastic sleeve focuses pitch and enhances the attach while providing protection for the port
  • Available in a frosted, onyx, smooth white and coated white version
  • All Evans drum heads are designed, engineered and manufactured in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: In the black version the hole is 4 inches for 20s, it’s 5 inches in white? I want 4 inch hole
Answer: It's one single piece. They sell single pads also or you could cut it in half for a single Kick drum.
Question: what is the difference between the coated and the smooth? thanks in advance
Answer: Just received and did not stick on my Roland KD10 initially. After placing it and letting it sit for 2-3 days without use, it adhered to the mesh head. Will update if it falls off after use.
Question: Is this a glossy finish
Answer: Not big...but big enough for a mallet head.
Question: Does the 26" have the port hole too
Answer: The background is clear, the graphics and letters are black.

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