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.
See live pricesOverview
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.
