What is the primary benefit of the Orbit cut-outs?

The cut-outs in the under-ply allow the drum to breathe more naturally. This prevents the head from sounding overly dampened while still providing the strength of a 2-ply construction.

What material is used for the top layer?

The top layer is made from a 10-mil clear Dynaflex film. This film is selected for its strength and ability to withstand heavy bass drum pedal impact.

Does this head include a porthole?

Yes, it includes a 4-inch Holz porthole. This provides protection for the head and a neat finish when using microphones.

How does the 24-inch Orbit sound compared to a single-ply head?

It is more durable and provides a stronger low-end punch than a single-ply head. However, it is more flexible and lively than a standard solid 2-ply head.

Is this head suitable for recording?

Yes, the added articulation and presence make it highly effective for recording. The included porthole also facilitates easy microphone placement.

What is the thickness of the film used?

The top layer uses a 10-mil film. The total thickness is equivalent to a double-ply head but with reduced mass due to the under-ply cut-outs.

Can I use this on a 22-inch drum?

No, this specific model is designed for 24-inch bass drums. You must match the head size to the diameter of your drum shell.

Does it require extra internal pillows or muffling?

While you can add muffling, the Orbit design is intended to provide a controlled, balanced sound naturally. Many users find it requires less additional dampening than standard heads.

What finish does the head have?

This specific model features a white finish. This contributes to the overall aesthetic and slightly affects the warmth of the tone.

How does it compare to the Attack ProFlex1?

The ProFlex1 is a 1-ply head designed for maximum openness. The Orbit 2-ply provides more durability and a deeper, more controlled low-end response.

What is the typical price for this head?

The typical price for the Attack 24" Orbit 2-Ply White Batter head is approximately £55. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.

Is the Orbit head good for heavy hitters?

Yes, the 2-ply Dynaflex construction provides the necessary strength for drummers with a heavy foot. The under-ply modification does not compromise the structural integrity of the strike zone.

Gear article

Attack Drumheads 24" Orbit 2-Ply White Batter Bass Drum Head

The Attack 24" Orbit 2-Ply White Batter Bass Drum Head is a specialised kick drum skin designed to balance the durability of a double-ply construction with the resonance of a single-ply head. It features a unique modified under-ply with strategic cut-outs and includes a 4-inch Holz porthole for microphone placement.

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Design and Construction

The Orbit series by Attack Drumheads utilizes a hybrid ply system to address common issues in bass drum dampening. The top layer is constructed from a 10-mil clear Dynaflex film, providing the structural integrity required for heavy striking. The distinctive feature of the Orbit design is the modified under-ply, which incorporates carefully placed cut-outs.

This 'Orbit' configuration allows the drumhead to breathe more naturally than standard double-ply heads. By removing mass from the secondary layer, the head maintains its strength while increasing flexibility and vibration, preventing the 'choked' sound often associated with heavy dampening systems.

Sound Character and Performance

The primary sonic goal of the 24-inch Orbit head is to provide a balanced low-end punch without sacrificing articulation. The 2-ply design offers a deep fundamental tone, but the ventilation in the under-ply ensures there is enough presence for the beater strike to remain audible.

Unlike traditional heads that may require heavy internal muffling, the Orbit is designed to provide controlled sustain naturally. This results in an open resonant response that retains depth, making it suitable for drummers who prefer a lively yet controlled kick drum sound.

Practical Features

For drummers who frequently perform live or in studio settings, the head includes a 4-inch Holz porthole. This reinforcement ring protects the head from tearing during microphone placement and ensures the resonant setup remains tidy. While the Orbit is primarily a batter head, its design characteristics influence the overall air movement within the drum shell, aiding in the protection of the resonant side.

Suitability and Applications

This head is particularly well-suited for drummers using 24-inch bass drums who find standard double-ply heads too muffled or single-ply heads too thin. It bridges the gap between these two categories, offering the durability needed for rock and pop styles while maintaining the musicality required for jazz or fusion. Its balanced profile makes it a versatile choice for players who want a 'plug and play' solution that requires minimal additional dampening.

Market Comparisons

Compared to the Attack ProFlex1, which is a single-ply head with no overtone control, the Orbit offers significantly more durability and a more focused low-end. When compared to competitors like the Evans EQ3 or the DW Coated Clear 24", the Orbit stands out due to its unique ventilated under-ply, which specifically targets a blend of single-ply resonance and double-ply strength. While vintage-style heads like the Evans 56 Calftone prioritize a warm, retro aesthetic, the Attack Orbit is geared towards modern articulation and punch.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the Orbit cut-outs?: The cut-outs in the under-ply allow the drum to breathe more naturally. This prevents the head from sounding overly dampened while still providing the strength of a 2-ply construction.
What material is used for the top layer?: The top layer is made from a 10-mil clear Dynaflex film. This film is selected for its strength and ability to withstand heavy bass drum pedal impact.
Does this head include a porthole?: Yes, it includes a 4-inch Holz porthole. This provides protection for the head and a neat finish when using microphones.
How does the 24-inch Orbit sound compared to a single-ply head?: It is more durable and provides a stronger low-end punch than a single-ply head. However, it is more flexible and lively than a standard solid 2-ply head.
Is this head suitable for recording?: Yes, the added articulation and presence make it highly effective for recording. The included porthole also facilitates easy microphone placement.
What is the thickness of the film used?: The top layer uses a 10-mil film. The total thickness is equivalent to a double-ply head but with reduced mass due to the under-ply cut-outs.
Can I use this on a 22-inch drum?: No, this specific model is designed for 24-inch bass drums. You must match the head size to the diameter of your drum shell.
Does it require extra internal pillows or muffling?: While you can add muffling, the Orbit design is intended to provide a controlled, balanced sound naturally. Many users find it requires less additional dampening than standard heads.
What finish does the head have?: This specific model features a white finish. This contributes to the overall aesthetic and slightly affects the warmth of the tone.
How does it compare to the Attack ProFlex1?: The ProFlex1 is a 1-ply head designed for maximum openness. The Orbit 2-ply provides more durability and a deeper, more controlled low-end response.
What is the typical price for this head?: The typical price for the Attack 24" Orbit 2-Ply White Batter head is approximately £55. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Is the Orbit head good for heavy hitters?: Yes, the 2-ply Dynaflex construction provides the necessary strength for drummers with a heavy foot. The under-ply modification does not compromise the structural integrity of the strike zone.