Gear article

Attack Drumheads 16" ThinSkin2 2-Ply Coated White

The Attack 16" ThinSkin2 is a specialist 2-ply drumhead designed to balance durability with an open, melodic sustain. Constructed from a unique blend of 5mil and 7mil Dynaflex film, it provides a more expressive and lively response than traditional equal-ply drumheads.

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Overview

The Attack 16" ThinSkin2 2-Ply Medium Thin Coated White Drum Head is a versatile percussion component engineered for drummers who require the strength of a dual-ply head without sacrificing tonal openness. Unlike standard heads that use uniform ply thicknesses, the ThinSkin2 employs a staggered approach to film weight, resulting in a head that sits between traditional heavy-duty skins and thin single-ply alternatives.

Technical Construction and Materials

The core of the ThinSkin2 is its Dynaflex film construction. It utilizes one 5mil layer and one 7mil layer. This specific medium-thin combination is designed to be more sensitive and 'singing' than the industry-standard 7mil/7mil configurations.

A defining mechanical feature is the Attack pressure-fitted steel hoop. Rather than using a glued channel, the hoop is pressed into place. This design provides several benefits: * Improved seating on the bearing edge. * Increased mass compared to lighter hoops, which aids in sustain. * Sharpens the overall tonal focus of the drum.

Sound Profile and Character

The sonic signature of this drumhead is described as 'funky' and 'wet.' While the 2-ply construction naturally dampens some of the wilder overtones found in single-ply heads, the 12mil total thickness allows for a melodic, singing character. The Dura-Coat finish further refines the sound by providing a consistent stick response and managing high-frequency overtones, making it particularly effective for groove-focused musical styles.

Target Audience and Applications

This head is ideally suited for drummers performing in live environments who need a reliable, gig-ready surface. Because of its 16-inch diameter, it is most commonly used on floor toms or large rack toms. Its ability to provide a clear melodic character while maintaining durability makes it a strong choice for players who find standard double-ply heads too muffled or 'dead,' but find single-ply heads too fragile for heavy playing.

Market Comparison

When compared to other 16-inch heads, the Attack ThinSkin2 stands out due to its asymmetrical ply construction. Most competitors offer either 10mil single-ply or 14mil double-ply (7mil + 7mil) options. By sitting at 12mil total with varied ply weights, Attack offers a middle ground. While standard marching heads like the Evans MS3 focus on extreme tension and articulation for snares, the ThinSkin2 is tuned for the sustain and depth required of a 16-inch tom-tom.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the total thickness of the ThinSkin2 drumhead?
The head has a total thickness of 12mil, consisting of one 5mil ply and one 7mil ply of Dynaflex film.
What type of finish is used on this drumhead?
The head features a Dura-Coat finish, which is a white coating designed for consistent stick response and controlled overtones.
How does the pressure-fitted steel hoop affect performance?
The hoop ensures the head stays firmly seated during heavy playing and adds mass that helps improve sustain and tonal focus.
Is this head suitable for 16-inch floor toms?
Yes, its 16-inch diameter and medium-thin construction make it an excellent choice for achieving a wet, funky floor tom sound.
What is Dynaflex film?
Dynaflex is the specific type of film used by Attack Drumheads to provide a lively and expressive tonal response.
How does the ThinSkin2 differ from standard 2-ply heads?
Standard 2-ply heads usually use two identical 7mil plies, whereas the ThinSkin2 uses a 5mil and 7mil blend for a more open and singing sound.
What musical styles best suit this drumhead?
It is particularly well-suited for groove-focused styles and any genre requiring a 'funky, wet' drum sound with melodic sustain.
Can I use this for heavy hitting during live gigs?
Yes, the 2-ply construction and pressure-fitted steel hoop are specifically designed to hold up to the rigours of regular live performance.
Does the Dura-Coat finish affect the overtones?
Yes, the Dura-Coat finish is designed to help keep overtones in check while providing a consistent feel for the sticks.
What is the typical price for this 16-inch head?
The typical price for the Attack 16" ThinSkin2 Coated White head is approximately GBP 32.
How does the sustain of this head compare to single-ply heads?
While it is more durable than a single-ply head, the specific 5mil/7mil blend is designed to offer more sustain and a more lively tone than heavier 2-ply heads.
Is the hoop design different from other brands?
Yes, Attack uses a pressure-fitted steel hoop rather than a glued-in design, which aids in seating and increases the mass of the head.