How to Choose a Snare Drum Batter Head

WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER FIRST WHEN CHOOSING A SNARE HEAD?

While there are no drumheads specifically made for jazz, rock, or any particular genre, the truth is that certain types of heads are commonly used in each style. Ultimately, you decide what characteristics your snare batter head should have based on your sound preferences and playing needs.

Besides the type of head, factors such as the snare drum itself and how you tune it play a major role in shaping the final sound. Even the same head on the same drum will sound radically different depending on tuning.

Let’s break down the essential aspects to consider before diving into specific brands and models.

Head Thickness

Drumhead thickness is measured in thousandths of an inch (mil). The most common thicknesses are 10 mil and 14 mil.

• Thinner heads produce a brighter tone with more overtones.
• Thicker heads produce a darker, more focused sound with enhanced definition.

Thickness also affects sensitivity and dynamics:

• Thinner heads respond better to light strokes but have less volume.
• Thicker heads require more energy to activate fully but offer more projection.

Heads may also feature single- or double-ply construction. For example, a 15 mil single-ply head will sound brighter than a 15 mil two-ply head, which emphasizes lows and dampens overtones.

Lastly, durability increases with thickness—a factor worth considering, especially for heavy hitters or gigging drummers.

Number of Plies

Single-Ply Heads:

Ideal for those who prefer an open snare tone. Typically around 10 mil, these heads are often the stock choice from most manufacturers. They offer:

• More overtones
• Lively, sensitive response
• Slightly lower volume compared to double-ply heads

Today’s manufacturers offer single-ply options in a range of thicknesses, giving drummers more flexibility.

Double-Ply Heads:

These provide:

• Fewer overtone
• More controlled tuning
• Increased attack

While classic double-ply heads are usually 14 mil in total, various ply combinations are now available.

Coated vs. Clear Finish

For snare drums, the standard finish is coated — a textured surface essential for brush work and useful for dampening overtones.

Overtone Control & Accessories

If you love your current head but want fewer overtones, many brands offer built-in or optional overtone control features:

• Internal Control Rings: Invisible but highly effective, these thin rings (typically 2–3 mil) help eliminate excessive overtones and enhance attack.
• Control Dots (Reinforcement Dots): Added to the top or underside of the head, they increase durability and boost attack.
• Oil-Filled Heads: Evans’ Hydraulic Series features two plies with a thin layer of oil in between, offering easy tuning and a deep, punchy sound—perfect for rock.
• Air Vents (Dry Vents): Micro-perforations that allow air to escape faster, reducing overtones and enhancing attack.

DRUMHEAD SERIES BY SOUND PROFILE

Open Sound with Rich Overtones

Thin to medium single-ply heads without added dampening:

• Remo Diplomat (7.5 mil)
• Remo Ambassador (10 mil)
• Evans G1 (10 mil)
• Aquarian Hi-Frequency (7 mil)
• Aquarian Texture Coated (10 mil)
• Evans G12 (12 mil)
• Evans G14 (14 mil)

Diplomat and Hi-Frequency are great for high sensitivity and low-volume styles.

Ambassador and G1 are highly versatile for all genres.

G12 and G14 offer increased durability and slightly more controlled sustain, while retaining an open tone.

Used across jazz, rock, funk, pop, and even any type of music.

Bright Sound with Moderate Overtone Control

Single-ply heads with center dots for added attack and durability:

• Remo Controlled Sound (10 mil, dot 5 mil)
• Evans Power Center (10 mil, dot 5 mil)
• Aquarian Texture Coated with Power Dot (10 mil dot 5 mil)

For brush players, choose models with the dot on the underside.

Moderate Overtone Control

Double-ply heads without additional dampening, providing:

• Easier tuning
• Controlled overtones
• Emphasis on mid-low frequencies

Popular choices:

• Remo Emperor Coated (7+7 mil)
• Evans G2 Coated (7+7 mil)
• Aquarian Response 2 (7+7 mil)
• Aquarian Super 2 (7+5 mil)

These heads are favorites in rock, pop, fusion, and studio settings thanks to their controlled yet resonant sound./p>

High Overtone Control

Single-ply heads with built-in dampening rings. Reduce high frequencies and sustain while enhancing attack.

Top models include:

• Remo Powerstroke 3 Coated (10 mil, 3 mil ring)
• Evans Genera (10 mil, 3 mil ring)
• Aquarian Focus-X (10 mil )

Excellent for mid-low tunings across most genres

Maximum Overtone Suppression

Two-ply heads with built-in muffling for ultimate control. These offer:

• Maximum attack
• Dark, dry tone
• Almost zero sustain<

Recommended models:

• Remo Powerstroke 4 Coated (7+7 mil, 3 mil ring)
• Remo Pinstripe Coated (7+7 mil, glue-sealed edge)
• Evans EC Reverse Dot (ECSRD) (7+7 mil + special internal ring + bottom dot)
• Aquarian Performance II (7+7 mil + built-in muffling ring)

Total Overtone Elimination

The iconic Evans Hydraulic series—two plies with an oil layer in between:

• Offers the driest sound
• Massive attack and definition
• Virtually no sustain or overtones
• Effortless tuning

Used in genres like black metal, death metal, and speed metal where clarity and punch are essential.

Specs: 7+7 mil with internal oil.

These are just a few of the many options available. If you need technical advice or have any questions about snare drumheads or accessories, feel free to reach out to us.

• Telf: +34 954 907 226
• Whatsapp: +34 672 655 950
• E-mail: info@tamtampercusion.com
• Or visit us at our store in Mairena del Aljarafe, Seville.

We hope this article has been helpful and informative.

Jose Manzanares Product Specialist