Rekor Sanat · Articles
Types of Drumheads: The Secret of Natural Tones
Drums are a dynamic instrument that combines rhythm and melody. Drumheads play a
crucial role in determining their sound and character. Different types affect overall
tone, resonance and playability. Here is a detailed guide to the types of drumheads
used.
Single-Ply Drumheads
Single-ply heads generally produce brighter, more open tones. They respond lightly and quickly and are commonly used in rock, pop and jazz. Requiring less control and focus, they are ideal for learners.
Double-Ply Drumheads
Double-ply heads produce denser, more focused tones. They offer greater durability and more controlled resonance and are often preferred for metal and rock. They are ideal for high volumes and heavy playing.
“Empati” Drumheads
“Empati” heads consist of two layers joined with a special adhesive. They generally produce more focused, controlled tones and are often preferred by professional drummers. They offer an excellent option for controlling overall tone and resonance.
Drumhead Materials
Drumheads are generally made from cowhide, goatskin or synthetic materials.
Cowhide: Cowhide generally produces durable heads with focused tones and is often used for drumheads.
Goatskin: Goatskin produces bright, rich tones and is often preferred for percussion heads.
Synthetic Heads: Synthetic heads offer durability and consistency and generally produce lighter tones. They are more resistant to weather conditions and are often ideal for outdoor performances.
Drumhead types shape a kit's overall sound, tone and character. Single-ply, double-ply and “Empati” heads affect its performance and playability. Materials such as cowhide, goatskin and synthetics determine the heads' sound, durability and performance.
As you learn to play drums, experimenting with different drumheads can help you find your own sound and style. Your choice of heads has a major effect on the experience, so selecting the right type and material can make playing richer and more expressive.
Single-Ply Drumheads
Single-ply heads generally produce brighter, more open tones. They respond lightly and quickly and are commonly used in rock, pop and jazz. Requiring less control and focus, they are ideal for learners.
Double-Ply Drumheads
Double-ply heads produce denser, more focused tones. They offer greater durability and more controlled resonance and are often preferred for metal and rock. They are ideal for high volumes and heavy playing.
“Empati” Drumheads
“Empati” heads consist of two layers joined with a special adhesive. They generally produce more focused, controlled tones and are often preferred by professional drummers. They offer an excellent option for controlling overall tone and resonance.
Drumhead Materials
Drumheads are generally made from cowhide, goatskin or synthetic materials.
Cowhide: Cowhide generally produces durable heads with focused tones and is often used for drumheads.
Goatskin: Goatskin produces bright, rich tones and is often preferred for percussion heads.
Synthetic Heads: Synthetic heads offer durability and consistency and generally produce lighter tones. They are more resistant to weather conditions and are often ideal for outdoor performances.
Drumhead types shape a kit's overall sound, tone and character. Single-ply, double-ply and “Empati” heads affect its performance and playability. Materials such as cowhide, goatskin and synthetics determine the heads' sound, durability and performance.
As you learn to play drums, experimenting with different drumheads can help you find your own sound and style. Your choice of heads has a major effect on the experience, so selecting the right type and material can make playing richer and more expressive.
Samet Kaya
Rekor Sanat –
Drums Teacher