Gear article

Aquarian Super Kick 10 Clear 24 Bass Drum Head

The Aquarian Super Kick 10 is a heavy-duty, two-ply bass drum head designed for 24-inch drums, featuring two layers of 10mil film. It incorporates an integrated muffle ring to produce a punchy, focused sound with significant durability for high-impact playing. This head is widely regarded for its ability to provide a powerful attack and controlled projection without the need for additional internal dampening.

Aquarian Super Kick 10 Clear 24 Bass Drum Head
Aquarian Super Kick 10 Clear 24 Bass Drum Head
See live prices

Overview and Construction

The Aquarian Super Kick 10 is a specialized bass drum head engineered for maximum durability and sonic control. Its primary construction consists of two layers of 10mil film, making it one of the thickest and most robust options currently available in the percussion market. This 20mil total thickness provides a level of structural integrity suited for touring professionals and heavy-hitting drummers.

A defining feature of the Super Kick series is the integrated 'Superkick' muffle ring. This ring is attached to the underside of the head and moves in conjunction with the film to control overtones while maintaining a deep, resonant low end.

Sound Character and Performance

The Super Kick 10 Clear is characterized by an intense attack and powerful projection. Due to the thickness of the 10mil plies, the head produces a focused 'thud' rather than a high-pitched ring. The clear finish enhances the 'click' of the beater, allowing the bass drum to punch through dense musical mixes.

Despite its heavy construction, the head offers a versatile tone that can be tuned for various genres. While it excels in loud environments, the integrated muffling ensures a consistent, pre-dampened sound that works well in studio settings where controlled resonance is required.

Evans 56 Calftone 18" EQ4 Bass Drum Head
Evans 56 Calftone 18" EQ4 Bass Drum Head

Target Audience

This head is specifically designed for the everyday drummer who requires longevity and consistency. It is particularly well-suited for:

  • Rock and Metal Drummers: The 20mil thickness resists denting and failure under heavy impact.
  • Touring Musicians: The durability ensures fewer head changes during a run of shows.
  • Large-Format Drum Enthusiasts: Designed specifically for 24-inch bass drums, it manages the air volume of larger shells effectively.

Market Comparisons

In the landscape of 24-inch bass drum heads, the Super Kick 10 competes with other pre-dampened models. Alternatives include the DW Bass Drum Head Coated Clear 24", which offers a different texture and resonance profile, and the Attack 24" ProFlex1, which utilizes a single-ply design for a more open sound.

Compared to specialized heads like the Evans 56 Calftone series (available in 18" or 26") or the Remo Silentstroke for low-volume practice, the Super Kick 10 occupies a niche for high-volume, high-strength applications where traditional single-ply heads might fail.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Aquarian Super Kick 10?
The head is constructed from two plies of 10mil film, resulting in a total thickness of 20mil. This makes it one of the most durable bass drum heads on the market.
What size bass drum is this head compatible with?
This specific model is designed for a 24-inch bass drum. It is engineered to fit standard 24-inch hoops from various manufacturers.
What is the purpose of the 'Superkick' ring?
The integrated Superkick ring acts as a built-in dampening system. It helps control unwanted overtones and focuses the low-end frequencies without requiring extra pillows or blankets inside the drum.
How does the clear finish affect the sound compared to a coated head?
The clear finish typically provides a sharper, more defined attack and more 'click' from the beater. It offers a brighter sound profile compared to the warmer, more muted response of a coated head.
Is the Super Kick 10 suitable for jazz drumming?
While it is extremely versatile, it is generally preferred for rock, metal, and pop due to its heavy construction and pre-dampened sound. Jazz drummers often prefer thinner, more resonant single-ply heads.
Does this head require internal dampening like a pillow?
In many cases, no. The Superkick ring is designed to provide sufficient muffling for a punchy sound, though drummers can still add internal dampening if they desire an even shorter decay.
How does the Super Kick 10 compare to the Super Kick II?
The Super Kick 10 is heavier than the Super Kick II, which uses two plies of 7mil film. The Super Kick 10's dual 10mil plies offer even greater durability and a deeper, more focused fundamental tone.
What is the typical price range for this drum head?
The typical retail price for the 24-inch Aquarian Super Kick 10 is approximately £80.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.
Can this head be used as a resonant (front) head?
While technically possible, it is designed specifically as a batter (striking) head. Using a heavy 2-ply head with a muffle ring as a resonant head may significantly reduce the drum's sustain.
Is this head good for heavy hitters?
Yes, it is specifically marketed for hard-hitting drummers. The two layers of thick 10mil film provide unparalleled strength and resistance to stretching or breakage.
How does the 24-inch size impact the sound projection?
A 24-inch drum moves a large volume of air. The Super Kick 10 helps manage this volume by providing powerful projection and an intense attack that prevents the sound from becoming muddy.
Who is the manufacturer of this product?
The product is manufactured by Aquarian, a brand well-known for innovations in drumhead technology and durability. They are one of the primary competitors to brands like Remo and Evans.