Gear article

Aquarian Super Kick I Clear 20" Bass Drum Head

The Aquarian Super Kick I Clear 20" is a professional-grade bass drum head constructed from a single ply of 10-mil medium-weight film. It features an integrated 'Superkick' muffle ring designed to provide a balanced response, powerful attack, and enhanced durability for drummers across all genres.

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Overview

The Aquarian Super Kick I Clear 20" Bass Drum Head is engineered to deliver a focused, punchy sound without the need for additional internal muffling. It is built using a single ply of 10-mil film, which is the industry standard for medium-weight heads, offering a blend of sensitivity and resilience. The design is intended to satisfy the requirements of the everyday gigging musician who needs a reliable, versatile component for their drum kit.

The Superkick Ring Technology

A defining feature of this head is the integrated Superkick ring. This muffling system is attached to the underside of the drum head to control overtones and focus the fundamental pitch of the drum. By incorporating the dampening directly into the head's construction, it provides a consistent, 'plug-and-play' sound that eliminates the common practice of placing pillows or blankets inside the bass drum shell.

Sonic Characteristics

The clear finish and single-ply construction result in a drum head with a powerful, defined attack and an open, resonant character. While the Superkick ring manages sustain, the head maintains a balanced response that allows the natural tone of the 20-inch drum shell to be heard. It is designed to produce a tone that is capable of punching through a live or recorded mix effectively.

Durability and Suitability

Despite its single-ply design, the Super Kick I is marketed for its durability and strength. It is suitable for a wide range of playing styles, from light jazz to heavy rock. The construction is specifically reinforced to withstand the demands of 'hard-hitting' drummers, ensuring longevity even under frequent professional use.

Market Comparisons

In the landscape of bass drum heads, the Super Kick I competes with other focused, muffled heads such as the Evans EQ3 Resonant or the Attack ProFlex1 No Overtone series. While some drummers may look toward specialized heads like the Evans 56 Calftone for a vintage aesthetic or the Remo Silentstroke for low-volume practice, the Super Kick I remains a standard choice for those seeking a modern, punchy, and versatile sound.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Aquarian Super Kick I Clear 20"?
The head is constructed from a single ply of 10-mil medium-weight film. This thickness is designed to offer a balance between durability and tonal sensitivity.
Does this head require additional muffling like a pillow?
Because of the integrated Superkick ring, additional internal muffling is often unnecessary. The ring is designed to control overtones and focus the sound naturally.
Is this drum head suitable for heavy metal and rock?
Yes, it is designed for durability and strength, making it suitable for hard-hitting drummers. The powerful attack helps the bass drum sound punch through dense musical mixes.
What size bass drum does this model fit?
This specific model is designed to fit any standard 20-inch diameter bass drum. It is a common size for versatile, all-purpose drum kits.
What is the difference between a clear and a coated bass drum head?
Clear heads like this Super Kick I generally offer more attack and brightness compared to coated heads. Coated versions typically provide a warmer, slightly more muted tone.
Can the Super Kick I be used as a resonant head?
While primarily designed as a batter (striking) head due to its muffling ring, it can technically be used on the resonant side. However, products like the Evans EQ3 Resonant are more typically used for the front of the drum.
How does the Superkick ring affect the feel of the drum?
The ring helps to focus the vibration of the head, which can result in a more controlled rebound. It provides a solid feel under the pedal without sacrificing the open sound of the single ply.
Is this a two-ply or single-ply drum head?
The Super Kick I is a single-ply head. If you are looking for a two-ply version for even more durability or a deeper sound, you would look at the Super Kick II.
What genre of music is this head best for?
It is highly versatile and adaptable to almost any style. It is commonly used in rock, pop, blues, and funk due to its balanced and punchy response.
What is the typical price for this drum head?
The typical price range for the Aquarian Super Kick I Clear 20" is approximately GBP 48. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
How does this compare to the Remo Silentstroke?
The Super Kick I is a standard acoustic drum head designed for full volume and projection. The Remo Silentstroke is a mesh head designed specifically for quiet practice and does not produce a traditional acoustic tone.
What makes Aquarian Super Kick heads unique?
The primary unique feature is the patented 'floating' muffle ring. Unlike some other brands, this ring is not glued to the entire surface, allowing the head to vibrate more naturally while still controlling overtones.