Gear article
Attack 16" ToneRidge2 2Ply Medium Clear Drum Head
The Attack 16" ToneRidge2 2Ply Medium Clear Drum Head is a durable, two-ply drumhead designed for high-impact playing styles. It features a unique split-level design to control high-frequency overtones and a specialized Dynaflex film for consistent stick rebound.
See live pricesOverview
The Attack 16" ToneRidge2 is a medium-weight clear drumhead engineered to balance durability with tonal control. It is constructed from two layers of 7mil Dynaflex film, a material chosen for its consistent feel and response across the entire striking surface. The head is treated with a Duracoat finish to extend its lifespan, making it a robust option for drummers who require reliability during heavy use.
Design and Technology
The defining technical feature of the ToneRidge2 series is its split-level design integrated into the outer edge of the head. This design serves as a physical dampening mechanism that helps manage unwanted high frequencies. By suppressing these overtones at the source, the head maintains a strong, punchy attack without the need for excessive external muffling. The use of Dynaflex film ensures that the rebound remains predictable, which is essential for maintaining technique during fast or powerful passages.
Sound Profile
Sonically, this drumhead is characterised by a darker, more focused response compared to standard single-ply or untreated double-ply heads. The combination of the 14mil total thickness and the split-level edge control results in a tight sound that sits well in a professional mix. It delivers a pronounced 'thud' and a clear fundamental pitch, which is particularly beneficial for 16-inch floor toms that can otherwise suffer from excessive sustain or ringing.
Applications
This drumhead is primarily intended for hard-hitting drummers across a variety of genres. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Rock and Metal: Where volume and durability are paramount.
- Pop and Gospel: Where a focused, modern low-end is required.
- Soul and Country: Where a controlled decay helps keep the rhythm section clear.
Its ability to handle heavy strokes without losing clarity makes it a versatile choice for both studio recording and live performance.
Comparison to Alternatives
Compared to single-ply alternatives, the ToneRidge2 offers significantly more durability and a shorter decay. While a single-ply head might provide more resonance and brightness, the ToneRidge2 is designed for players who find those qualities difficult to manage. Unlike some other muffled heads that can sound 'dead', the split-level design on this Attack head aims to retain a punchy attack while only removing the harsh upper-harmonic frequencies.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the thickness of the Attack ToneRidge2 drumhead?
- The head features a 2-ply construction, with each ply being 7mil thick, resulting in a total thickness of 14mil. This medium-weight build provides a balance of sensitivity and strength.
- What is the purpose of the split-level design?
- The split-level design is integrated into the outer edge to help manage high frequencies. This results in a more controlled, focused tone with a darker response that sits better in a musical mix.
- What material is used for the film?
- The head is manufactured using Dynaflex film. This specific material is designed to provide a consistent feel and reliable rebound across the entire surface of the drumhead.
- How does the Duracoat treatment affect the head?
- The Duracoat treatment is a finish applied to the head to enhance its longevity. It helps the head withstand demanding rehearsals and long performances without premature wear.
- Is this head suitable for soft jazz playing?
- While it can be used for any genre, its 2-ply 14mil construction and tone-control features are specifically optimized for hard-hitting styles like rock and metal. Soft players might find it lacks the extreme sensitivity of a thin single-ply head.
- Will this head fit a standard 16-inch floor tom?
- Yes, it is a standard 16-inch diameter head designed to fit most industry-standard 16-inch drum hoops and shells. It is a common choice for floor toms in rock and pop kits.
- Does this head require extra muffling like gels or rings?
- Because of the integrated split-level design at the edge, this head naturally manages overtones. Many players find they need less additional muffling compared to standard clear heads.
- How does the sound compare to a single-ply clear head?
- The ToneRidge2 is darker and more focused than a single-ply head. It has less sustain and a more pronounced 'punch' because the two plies dampen some of the higher-frequency vibrations.
- Is the finish clear or coated?
- This specific model is a clear drumhead, though it features Attack's Duracoat treatment. This allows the visual of the drum interior to remain visible while providing a protected striking surface.
- What genres is this drumhead best for?
- It is highly recommended for rock, metal, soul, pop, gospel, and country. These genres benefit from the head's ability to stay tight and focused under heavy playing.
- How does the rebound feel on this head?
- Thanks to the Dynaflex film, the rebound is designed to be consistent. This ensures that the sticks bounce back predictably, which is helpful for maintaining speed during powerful strokes.
- What is the typical price for this 16-inch head?
- The typical price range for the Attack 16" ToneRidge2 2Ply Medium Clear Drum Head is approximately £35. This makes it a mid-range professional replacement part.
