Gear article

Attack Drumheads 22" ProFlex1 1Ply Black Bass Drum Head

The Attack 22" ProFlex1 is a single-ply bass drum head designed for versatile projection and a balanced response. Constructed from 10 mil Dynaflex film with a Duracoat finish, it provides a bright, defined attack and a natural decay suitable for multiple musical genres.

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Overview

The Attack 22" ProFlex1 1Ply Black Bass Drum Head serves as a utility-focused component for drummers seeking a balance between durability and open resonance. Manufactured by Attack Drumheads, this model is positioned as an adaptable solution for 22-inch kick drums, focusing on clarity and projection rather than heavily dampened or muffled tones. It occupies a price point around £30, making it an accessible professional-grade option for various applications.

Technical Specifications and Design

The primary component of the ProFlex1 is the 10 mil Dynaflex film. This single-ply construction is specifically selected to maintain a responsive feel under the foot. Unlike multi-ply heads that may feel stiff, the 1-ply 10 mil design allows for a higher degree of sensitivity and a faster rebound.

A key feature of this specific model is the Duracoat coating. This finish is designed to provide a smooth, controlled feel across the surface of the head. It ensures that the response remains consistent throughout extended playing sessions, preventing the head from feeling 'patchy' or inconsistent as it wears.

Tonal Characteristics

The ProFlex1 is characterised by a bright, defined attack. Upon striking the head, the initial transient is sharp, allowing the bass drum to cut through dense mixes in live or studio environments. This immediate impact is followed by a longer, natural decay. Because it lacks integrated overtone control rings, the head maintains an open sound that fills out the low-end frequency spectrum. This combination of high-end definition and sustain results in a full-bodied bass drum presence.

Application and Compatibility

This drum head is intended for drummers who work across multiple genres including rock, jazz, pop, and funk. Its lack of extreme dampening allows it to be tuned high for a jazz 'bop' feel or lower for a traditional rock punch.

In the market, it is often compared to other single-ply options such as the DW AA Coated series or the Evans EQ series. While Evans offers vintage-styled options like the 56 Calftone, the ProFlex1 focuses on a more modern, bright aesthetic and sound. It is specifically sized for standard 22-inch bass drums, which is the industry standard for most modern drum kits.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Attack ProFlex1 22" Bass Drum Head?
The head is constructed from a single ply of 10 mil Dynaflex film. This thickness is considered a standard medium weight for bass drum heads, providing a balance of durability and resonance.
What type of coating does this drum head use?
It features a Duracoat coating. This proprietary finish is designed to provide a smooth and consistent feel while helping to control the response during play.
Is this head suitable for recording sessions?
Yes, its bright defined attack and longer decay make it a solid choice for recording. The presence it provides helps the kick drum cut through a mix without sounding overworked.
What is the primary benefit of the single-ply construction?
The single-ply design keeps the drum head feeling open and responsive. It allows for more natural resonance and sustain compared to thicker, multi-ply heads.
Can this head be used for heavy rock music?
Yes, the 10 mil Dynaflex film is strong enough for regular playing. It provides a sharp attack that is often desired in rock to ensure the kick is audible alongside loud guitars.
How does the Duracoat finish affect the sound?
The Duracoat helps create a more controlled response. While the head remains resonant, the coating adds a layer of consistency to the strike surface.
Does this head include an internal muffler or overtone ring?
No, this specific ProFlex1 model is a standard single-ply head without built-in overtone controls. This allows for a more open and natural decay.
What size drum does this head fit?
This specific model is designed for a 22-inch diameter bass drum. It will not fit 20-inch or 24-inch drums.
What is Dynaflex film?
Dynaflex is the specific plastic film material used by Attack Drumheads. It is chosen for its strength, flexibility, and balanced tonal response.
Is this head better suited for the batter or resonant side?
While typically used as a batter head due to its 10 mil thickness and coating, it can function as a resonant head if an open, full-bodied sound is desired.
How does it compare to the Attack ProFlex1 No Overtone Clear version?
The Black Duracoat version provides a slightly more controlled feel and a different aesthetic compared to the Clear version, which typically has a sharper, more 'plasticky' attack.
What genres is the ProFlex1 best for?
It is highly versatile and adapts easily to rock, jazz, pop, and funk. Its simple construction allows the drummer to tune it to fit the specific needs of the style.