What is the ply construction of the Aquarian Reflector 18" Bass Drum Head?

The head is a two-ply hybrid, consisting of a 10mil black film bottom layer and a 7mil Classic Clear film top layer.

How does the 'Black Mirror' finish work?

The finish is achieved by layering a clear film over a black film. Light passes through the top layer and reflects off the black layer beneath, creating a reflective, mirror-like appearance.

Is this head suitable for low-volume playing?

Yes, at lower volumes the Reflector produces a warm and musical tone, making it adaptable for quieter musical environments.

How does the sound change when played loudly?

Increased volume enhances the stick response and produces a brighter, more articulate sound that helps the bass drum stand out.

How durable is the Reflector 18" Bass Drum Head?

It is extremely durable due to its 17mil total thickness, making it an ideal choice for hard-hitting drummers across various genres.

What is the typical price for this model?

In the UK market, this drum head typically retails for approximately £68.00.

Can this head be used for different musical genres?

Yes, its versatile nature allows it to be used for everything from jazz and acoustic music to heavy rock and metal.

What size is this specific drum head?

This specific model is designed for 18-inch bass drums, which are common in jazz kits or compact portable setups.

How does the Reflector compare to Evans Calftone heads?

The Reflector is more modern and articulate compared to the Evans 56 Calftone, which is designed for a vintage, calfskin-like warmth.

Does the black film affect the tone?

The 10mil black film provides the heavy foundation for the head, contributing to the warmth at low volumes and the durability overall.

Is the top film textured or clear?

The top ply is a 7mil Classic Clear film, which provides a smooth surface and allows the reflective properties of the bottom ply to be visible.

Does this head come with a pre-cut port hole?

The manufacturer description does not specify a pre-cut port hole for this specific Reflector bass drum head model.

Gear article

Aquarian Reflector 18" Bass Drum Head

The Aquarian Reflector 18" Bass Drum Head is a durable, hybrid two-ply drumhead featuring a unique combination of 10mil black film and 7mil clear film. It is designed to provide a versatile sonic range that shifts from warm tones at low volumes to bright, articulate responses under heavy play. The head is noted for its high durability and distinctive 'Black Mirror' aesthetic.

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Overview and Construction

The Aquarian Reflector series represents a specialized approach to two-ply drumhead design. Unlike traditional heads that use identical plies, the Reflector 18" Bass Drum Head utilises a hybrid construction. The bottom layer is a 10mil black film, which provides the foundation for the head's durability and visual depth. This is topped with a 7mil Classic Clear film.

This specific layering creates a 'Black Mirror' effect. The clear top film allows light to pass through and reflect off the dense black film underneath, resulting in a striking visual appearance that complements modern drum kits. The build quality is specifically engineered to withstand heavy use while maintaining tonal integrity.

Sound Character and Performance

The primary characteristic of the Reflector head is its dynamic versatility. The response of the head changes significantly based on the velocity of the stroke:

Low Volumes: At softer dynamics, the head produces a warm, musical tone that is suitable for jazz or light acoustic settings.
High Volumes: As the player increases force, the head becomes brighter and more articulate. The stick response enhances, allowing the bass drum to cut through dense mixes.

This variable response makes it a multi-genre tool, capable of transitioning between subtle accompaniment and aggressive performance styles.

Durability and Suitability

Due to the combined 17mil thickness of the two plies, the Reflector 18" is exceptionally robust. It is aimed at drummers who require a long-lasting head that will not easily dent or lose tension under heavy hitting. While it is marketed as a versatile head for all styles, its resilience makes it particularly appealing to rock, metal, and pop drummers who demand consistent performance over long periods of time.

Market Comparison

When compared to other 18-inch options, the Aquarian Reflector sits in a distinct category. Compared to the EVANS 56 Calftone 18", which focuses on vintage aesthetics and a traditional warm sound, the Reflector offers a more modern, bright, and articulate profile. Unlike the Remo Silentstroke, which is designed for volume reduction, the Reflector is built for projection and high-volume performance. It serves as a more durable alternative to standard single-ply heads like the Attack ProFlex1, providing more controlled overtones due to its two-ply nature.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the ply construction of the Aquarian Reflector 18" Bass Drum Head?: The head is a two-ply hybrid, consisting of a 10mil black film bottom layer and a 7mil Classic Clear film top layer.
How does the 'Black Mirror' finish work?: The finish is achieved by layering a clear film over a black film. Light passes through the top layer and reflects off the black layer beneath, creating a reflective, mirror-like appearance.
Is this head suitable for low-volume playing?: Yes, at lower volumes the Reflector produces a warm and musical tone, making it adaptable for quieter musical environments.
How does the sound change when played loudly?: Increased volume enhances the stick response and produces a brighter, more articulate sound that helps the bass drum stand out.
How durable is the Reflector 18" Bass Drum Head?: It is extremely durable due to its 17mil total thickness, making it an ideal choice for hard-hitting drummers across various genres.
What is the typical price for this model?: In the UK market, this drum head typically retails for approximately £68.00.
Can this head be used for different musical genres?: Yes, its versatile nature allows it to be used for everything from jazz and acoustic music to heavy rock and metal.
What size is this specific drum head?: This specific model is designed for 18-inch bass drums, which are common in jazz kits or compact portable setups.
How does the Reflector compare to Evans Calftone heads?: The Reflector is more modern and articulate compared to the Evans 56 Calftone, which is designed for a vintage, calfskin-like warmth.
Does the black film affect the tone?: The 10mil black film provides the heavy foundation for the head, contributing to the warmth at low volumes and the durability overall.
Is the top film textured or clear?: The top ply is a 7mil Classic Clear film, which provides a smooth surface and allows the reflective properties of the bottom ply to be visible.
Does this head come with a pre-cut port hole?: The manufacturer description does not specify a pre-cut port hole for this specific Reflector bass drum head model.