What is the construction of the Aquarian Deep Vintage II?

The drum head is constructed from two plies of 10mil film, creating a total thickness of 20mil. This multi-ply design is specifically engineered for enhanced durability and a deeper tonal response.

What type of coating does this head have?

It features a specialized 'Vintage Coating'. This unique finish is designed to give the head the look, feel, and warm sound of traditional calfskin drumheads.

What genres is the Deep Vintage II best suited for?

It is highly recommended for jazz and fusion styles. Its warm, classic tone complements the nuance and dynamic range required for these genres.

How does the Deep Vintage II compare to standard two-ply heads?

The Deep Vintage II uses thicker 10mil plies compared to standard vintage heads. This results in added durability, more depth of sound, and a thicker overall feel under the sticks.

What is the diameter of this specific model?

This specific model is designed for 14-inch drums. It is commonly used on floor toms, large rack toms, or snare drums of that size.

Does this head provide a modern or vintage sound?

It is described as a 'modern equivalent of a timeless classic'. It combines modern manufacturing quality and durability with the classic warm tone and feel of the past.

Is the Deep Vintage II suitable for heavy hitters?

Yes, because it uses two plies of 10mil film, it offers added durability. This makes it more resilient than thinner vintage-style heads while maintaining a deep tone.

What is the typical price for the 14" version?

The typical price range for this drum head is approximately £30 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.

Can this head be used on a snare drum?

Yes, while often used for toms, the 14" size and two-ply construction make it a functional choice for a snare drum if a warm, dampened vintage sound is desired.

How does the 'Deep' version differ from the regular Vintage II?

The Deep Vintage heads feature thicker plies than the regular two-ply vintage heads. This design choice is intended to provide more depth and greater durability.

What is the main tonal characteristic of this head?

The primary tonal characteristic is warmth. The combination of the thick two-ply film and the vintage coating works to produce a classic, rounded sound with minimal harsh overtones.

Does the vintage coating affect the feel of the head?

Yes, the coating is specifically designed to provide the tactile feel of iconic calfskin heads. This provides a different stick response compared to standard smooth or modern coated heads.

Gear article

Aquarian Deep Vintage II 14" Drum Head

The Aquarian Deep Vintage II 14" Drum Head is a two-ply tom drum head designed to replicate the tonal response and tactile feel of traditional calfskin. It features two plies of 10mil film with a specialized vintage coating, offering increased durability and a deep, warm resonance suitable for jazz and fusion genres.

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Overview and Design

The Aquarian Deep Vintage II is a professional-grade 14" drum head belonging to the manufacturer's 'Parts & Spares' category. It is engineered to bridge the gap between historical aesthetics and modern manufacturing standards. The head is constructed from two layers of 10mil film, resulting in a total thickness of 20mil. This design is significantly thicker than standard vintage-style heads, providing enhanced durability and a lower fundamental pitch.

A key feature of the Deep Vintage II series is the specialized vintage coating. This finish not only contributes to the visual appeal of the head but also dampens high-frequency overtones to simulate the organic, warm response associated with natural calfskin heads used in early 20th-century drumming.

Tonal Character and Performance

In terms of sonic performance, the Deep Vintage II is characterised by its depth and warmth. The two-ply 10mil construction increases the mass of the head, which effectively filters out harsh high-end frequencies while emphasizing the lower-mid frequencies. The result is a 'thick' sound with a soft attack and a controlled decay.

Compared to regular two-ply vintage heads, the Deep Vintage II offers more depth and a slightly darker timbre. The thicker plies ensure that the head can withstand heavier playing styles while maintaining its structural integrity, making it a versatile option for drummers who require a traditional sound without the fragility of antique materials.

Suitability and Genre Application

While the head is designed to complement a wide range of drumming styles, it is particularly well-suited for jazz and fusion. The warm, dark tone provides the necessary nuance for articulate jazz playing, especially when used on toms or snare drums. The controlled resonance also makes it a viable choice for recording environments where excessive ring needs to be managed without the use of heavy external muffling.

The durability provided by the 20mil total thickness means it also suits contemporary fusion drummers who play with higher intensity but desire a classic, rounded tone. It provides the feel of a vintage head with the reliability expected of modern synthetic films.

Comparison and Market Context

Within the Aquarian catalogue, the Deep Vintage II stands out for its increased ply thickness. While standard vintage heads often utilize thinner films to maximize sensitivity, the Deep Vintage II prioritises body and resilience. In the broader market, it competes with other multi-ply coated heads like those found in the Evans or Remo ranges, though its specific focus on the 'calfskin' feel distinguishes it from purely modern clear or standard coated heads.

At a price point of approximately £30, it is positioned as a premium replacement part. It is often compared to accessories and components like the Tama CB900PS beater or Evans marching heads, though its specific application is for kit drumming rather than marching or hardware modification.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the construction of the Aquarian Deep Vintage II?: The drum head is constructed from two plies of 10mil film, creating a total thickness of 20mil. This multi-ply design is specifically engineered for enhanced durability and a deeper tonal response.
What type of coating does this head have?: It features a specialized 'Vintage Coating'. This unique finish is designed to give the head the look, feel, and warm sound of traditional calfskin drumheads.
What genres is the Deep Vintage II best suited for?: It is highly recommended for jazz and fusion styles. Its warm, classic tone complements the nuance and dynamic range required for these genres.
How does the Deep Vintage II compare to standard two-ply heads?: The Deep Vintage II uses thicker 10mil plies compared to standard vintage heads. This results in added durability, more depth of sound, and a thicker overall feel under the sticks.
What is the diameter of this specific model?: This specific model is designed for 14-inch drums. It is commonly used on floor toms, large rack toms, or snare drums of that size.
Does this head provide a modern or vintage sound?: It is described as a 'modern equivalent of a timeless classic'. It combines modern manufacturing quality and durability with the classic warm tone and feel of the past.
Is the Deep Vintage II suitable for heavy hitters?: Yes, because it uses two plies of 10mil film, it offers added durability. This makes it more resilient than thinner vintage-style heads while maintaining a deep tone.
What is the typical price for the 14" version?: The typical price range for this drum head is approximately £30 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Can this head be used on a snare drum?: Yes, while often used for toms, the 14" size and two-ply construction make it a functional choice for a snare drum if a warm, dampened vintage sound is desired.
How does the 'Deep' version differ from the regular Vintage II?: The Deep Vintage heads feature thicker plies than the regular two-ply vintage heads. This design choice is intended to provide more depth and greater durability.
What is the main tonal characteristic of this head?: The primary tonal characteristic is warmth. The combination of the thick two-ply film and the vintage coating works to produce a classic, rounded sound with minimal harsh overtones.
Does the vintage coating affect the feel of the head?: Yes, the coating is specifically designed to provide the tactile feel of iconic calfskin heads. This provides a different stick response compared to standard smooth or modern coated heads.