Best 22 Bass Drum Heads for Studio and Live Drumming
Find the right 22″ bass drum head for your style and setup. These options cover the most common needs: adjustable damping for attack control, durable two-ply heads for aggressive playing, and resonant heads for punchy and focused sound. This guide highlights which head is best for studio work, live gigs, heavy hitters, or versatile all-around use.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Brand | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22” | Evans | Studio and live; versatile genres | Externally mounted damping; dual foam rings |
| Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch | Evans | Players seeking tunable attack and sustain | Complete system with damping options |
| Evans BD22EMADONX EMAD Onyx 22-inch | Evans | Heavy hitters and rock | Two-ply, Level 360 collar for tuning |
| Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch | Evans | General purpose, all genres | Externally mounted damping; 10 mil single ply option |
| Remo Powerstroke P3 Clear Bass Drumhead, 22″ | Remo | All-around sound with balanced overtones | Thin outer dampening edge to reduce overtones |
Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22”
The EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head uses an externally mounted damping system to control attack and focus. It includes two removable foam rings for tone options. The 22” head features a 7 mil outer ply and a 10 mil inner ply for added durability. Best for studio work and live gigs that require adaptable brightness and control. Caution: complex damping setup may take time to dial in for beginners.
Best for: drummers who want precise control over attack and sustain across genres. The damping rings offer quick tonal shifts between punchy and open.
Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch
This system bundle provides limitless tone control with interchangeable damping rings. The two-ply batter head maximizes low-end and attack for a dynamic sound, while the damping rings enable precise sustain control. Best for players who want a complete setup with in-hand options for varying stages. Limitation: slightly higher price and more components to manage than a single head.
Evans BD22EMADONX EMAD Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head
The EMAD Onyx head focuses on low-end with a focused attack and improved durability. It uses Level 360 technology for a balanced seating and easier tuning with an extended pitch range. This 2-ply design (7.5 mil) provides a robust feel for heavy hitters while preserving punch. Best for aggressive players seeking a tight, controlled low end. Caution: may require careful tuning to avoid over-damping on lighter playing styles.
Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch
This 22″ EMAD Clear features a single 10 mil ply with an externally mounted damping system. It offers versatility across music genres and a true working drummer’s option for adjustable attack and focus. Best for players who want a simple yet effective damping setup. Limitation: fewer tone options than two-ply versions if you need extreme attenuation of overtones.
Remo Powerstroke P3 Clear Bass Drumhead, 22″
The Remo Powerstroke P3 features a thin underlay at the outer edge to dampen unwanted overtones while maintaining a lively middle presence. The 22″ diameter fits most standard kick drums and offers a balanced tone suitable for diverse genres. Best for players who want a reliable, all-purpose head with controlled resonance. Caution: may not be as damping-focused as EMAD when heavy damping is desired.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a 22″ bass drum head?
- Attack vs. sustain: If you need tighter punch, choose an externally damped or two-ply head (EMAD options). For more resonance, a single-ply or lighter dampening head may be preferable.
- Durability: Heavier playing styles benefit from two-ply designs (7.5 mil or 10 mil) that resist dents and wear.
- Technology and fit: Level 360 alignment helps with tuning stability and pitch range. Ensure the collar design supports your shell and mounting system.
- Usage context: Studio applications often favor controllable damping and clear attack, while live gigs may need more sustain or a focused low end.
- Maintenance: Some systems require more setup steps (damping ring changes). Consider your tolerance for adjusting the head between songs or sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Are EMAD heads compatible with all bass drums? A: EMAD is designed for standard 22″ bass drums and many configurations, but always verify shell and hoop compatibility.
- Q: What’s the benefit of a damping ring? A: Damping rings control overtones and sustain, allowing you to tailor attack and focus without changing the head.
- Q: Which head is best for metal or hard rock? A: EMAD Onyx or EMAD models with two-ply construction offer strong low-end and controlled attack suited for aggressive styles.
- Q: Do I need a resonant and batter pair from the same brand? A: Not mandatory, but many players pair matching systems to ensure tonal coherence and ease of setup.
- Q: How critical is the Level 360 collar? A: It helps the head seat evenly and tunes more predictably, improving pitch stability across the drum’s range.
- Q: Can I mix damping options on the same kit? A: Yes, many players blend damped batter heads with resonant heads for tailored stage sound, but ensure compatibility with the hardware.