Gear article
Attack 13" ThinSkin2 2-Ply Medium Thin Clear Drum Head
The Attack 13" ThinSkin2 is a medium-thin, two-ply drumhead designed to balance durability with a melodic, open sustain. Utilising a unique blend of 5-mil and 7-mil Dynaflex film, it offers a livelier response and a wetter tonal character than conventional two-ply heads.
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The Attack 13" ThinSkin2 2-Ply Medium Thin Clear Drum Head is a specialized component within the Attack Drumheads catalogue, specifically engineered for players who require the strength of a multi-ply head without sacrificing melodic sustain. Unlike standard two-ply heads that often use two plies of equal thickness, the ThinSkin2 employs a staggered approach to film weight. This design choice aims to provide a 'funk-ready' voice that remains responsive even under varied playing dynamics.
Construction and Materials
The primary material used in the ThinSkin2 series is Attack's proprietary Dynaflex film. The head is constructed from one 5-mil ply and one 7-mil ply, totaling 12 mils of thickness. This specific combination is intended to be thinner and more resonant than heavy-duty 2-ply heads while remaining more robust than single-ply alternatives.
A key feature of the head is its pressure-fitted steel hoop. This design ensures that the Dynaflex film remains securely seated under high tension. The added mass of the steel hoop is not purely structural; it serves an acoustic purpose by helping to extend the natural sustain of the drum and sharpening the overall tonal focus of the stroke.
Sonic Characteristics
The ThinSkin2 is characterized by what the manufacturer describes as a 'wetter' and more 'melodic' tone. While many two-ply heads are chosen for their ability to dampen overtones and provide a short, punchy 'thud', the ThinSkin2 is designed to 'sing'. The thinner 5-mil layer allows for greater sensitivity and high-end sparkle, while the 7-mil layer provides the fundamental body and durability needed for consistent use. The result is a sound that suits musical genres requiring clarity and resonance, such as funk or fusion.
Target Audience and Comparison
This drumhead is best suited for drummers who find standard 10-mil single-ply heads too fragile but find traditional 2-ply (7-mil + 7-mil) heads too muffled or 'dead'. It fills a middle ground for players using 13-inch snare drums or rack toms who want a controlled but lively sound.
When compared to other industry standards, the ThinSkin2 offers a specific 'medium-thin' profile that is relatively rare in the market. While manufacturers like Evans produce marching heads like the MS3 Clear, those are designed for extreme tension and different acoustic environments; the ThinSkin2 is firmly rooted in the drum kit application where sustain and feel are paramount.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the specific ply construction of the Attack 13" ThinSkin2?
- The head is constructed using a two-ply design consisting of one 5-mil ply and one 7-mil ply of Dynaflex film. This creates a medium-thin profile that balances durability with resonance.
- What type of film does Attack use for this drumhead?
- This drumhead uses Dynaflex film, which is Attack's proprietary material designed for consistent response and tonal clarity.
- How does the ThinSkin2 differ from a standard 2-ply drumhead?
- Standard 2-ply heads often use two 7-mil plies; the ThinSkin2 uses a 5-mil and 7-mil combination. This makes it more responsive and melodic than heavier, traditional two-ply designs.
- What are the benefits of the pressure-fitted steel hoop?
- The steel hoop keeps the head firmly in place during heavy playing and adds mass. This extra mass helps to sharpen the tonal focus and extend the drum's sustain.
- Is this drumhead suitable for funk music?
- Yes, the manufacturer describes it as having a 'wetter funk-ready voice'. Its ability to produce a lively, singing tone makes it well-suited for the genre.
- What is the diameter of this specific model?
- This specific model is designed for 13-inch drums, common for small snare drums or specific rack tom sizes.
- Does this head come with a coating?
- This specific model is a 'Clear' drumhead. While other models in the series use 'Dura-Coat', this version provides the transparent look and brighter attack typical of clear heads.
- What is the price range for this drumhead?
- The typical price range for the Attack 13" ThinSkin2 is approximately GBP 25.
- How does the durability compare to single-ply heads?
- Because it features two plies (totaling 12 mils), it is generally more durable and dependable for regular use than standard 10-mil single-ply heads.
- Will this head provide a lot of sustain?
- Yes, it is designed to offer more sustain than typical two-ply designs, aided by the thinner film blend and the mass of the steel hoop.
- Can this head be used on a snare drum?
- Yes, it is suitable for drummers wanting a durable head with an open tone on a 13-inch snare, though it is also applicable to toms.
- Is the hoop design different from other brands?
- Attack uses a pressure-fitted steel hoop, which differs from the crimped or glued channels found on some other brands, emphasizing stability and sustain.
