What is the thickness of the Code 18” Signal Smooth White head?

This drumhead is constructed from a single ply of 14mil film. This makes it thicker than standard 10mil single-ply heads, providing extra durability for heavier playing styles.

What kind of finish does this drumhead have?

It features a 'Smooth White' finish. This provides a clean aesthetic and a sound that is typically brighter than a coated head but warmer than a completely clear head.

Is this head suitable for heavy hitters?

Yes, it is specifically designed for medium to heavy hitters. The 14mil design is intended to handle energetic rehearsals and live performances without failing prematurely.

What is the typical price for the 18” Signal head?

The typical price for this specific model is approximately £27. This makes it a cost-effective option for drummers looking for professional-grade replacement parts.

Can I use this head for recording?

Yes, it is suitable for studio use. It offers a focused response and dependable tone, which helps in capturing a consistent drum sound during recording sessions.

How does the rim construction affect performance?

The head uses a solid rim construction designed for stability. This ensures consistent tension across the head and helps the drum stay in tune over long periods of use.

What diameter is this specific Signal head?

This specific model is 18 inches in diameter. It is usually fitted to large floor toms or small bass drums.

Does a 14mil single-ply head sound different from a 2-ply head?

Yes, a 14mil single-ply head generally has more resonance and a wider tuning range than a 2-ply head of similar total thickness. It provides a more open sound while still being tough.

Is the Signal Smooth White good for jazz or light playing?

While it can be used for any style, its 14mil thickness is optimized for projection and power. Lighter players might find a thinner 10mil head more sensitive to soft ghost notes.

How does the Smooth White finish affect stick feel?

The smooth finish offers less friction than a textured coated head. This results in a slicker feel and a sharp attack, which is preferred by many rock and pop drummers.

Will this head fit any 18-inch drum?

It is designed to fit standard 18-inch acoustic drum hoops. It is compatible with most major drum brands, provided the shell is a standard 18-inch diameter.

What is the main benefit of the Signal series over the Code Generator series?

The Signal series uses a single 14mil ply for an open but tough sound. The Generator series typically uses two plies, which offers more dampening and a different harmonic profile.

Gear article

Code Drumheads 18” Signal Smooth White

The Code Drumheads 18” Signal Smooth White is a single-ply drumhead constructed from a 14mil film designed for durability and a focused sonic response. It is engineered to bridge the gap between traditional single-ply sensitivity and the robustness required for heavy-hitting performance environments.

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Background and Design

Code Drumheads is a UK-based brand known for providing high-quality, cost-effective alternatives to major drumhead manufacturers. The Signal series, particularly the 18-inch Smooth White variant, is designed for drummers who require the open resonance of a single-ply head but find standard 10mil heads too fragile for their playing style.

By utilizing a thicker 14mil film, the Signal series offers increased structural integrity. The Smooth White finish provides a different tactile response compared to coated or clear heads, sitting between the two in terms of friction and overtone control.

Key Features and Construction

The primary feature of the 18" Signal head is its 14mil single-ply construction. This specific thickness is notable as it provides the durability often associated with double-ply heads while maintaining the linear vibration and tuning range of a single-ply design.

The head features a solid rim construction, which is critical for maintaining consistent tension across the diameter of an 18-inch shell. This stability ensures that the head stays in tune during extended rehearsals or high-intensity live performances, reducing the frequency of adjustments required.

Sonic Characteristics

The Signal Smooth White is characterised by a crisp, focused response with a strong emphasis on attack and projection. Unlike thinner heads that may wash out at high volumes, the 14mil film provides a 'confident presence' that cuts through a mix.

Despite its thickness, the head retains a degree of warmth and control. The smooth finish helps to temper harsh overtones without the dampening effect seen in heavy oil-filled or thick double-ply heads, resulting in a balanced tone suitable for various musical genres.

Applications and Target Audience

This drumhead is specifically targeted at medium to heavy hitters. While it can be used in a studio setting for its controlled resonance, it excels in live environments and rehearsals where volume and durability are paramount.

Given its 18-inch size, it is commonly used for floor toms or smaller auxiliary bass drums. It suits players who find 10mil heads break too easily but feel that 2-ply heads (like a 2x7mil configuration) are too 'dead' or lack the necessary high-end bite.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard 10mil single-ply heads, the Code Signal offers significantly more longevity and a lower fundamental pitch. When compared to typical double-ply heads, it provides a faster stick response and more sustain. Within the market, it serves a similar purpose to other 'heavy-duty' single-ply heads, such as the Evans G14, but often at a more accessible price point for UK drummers.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Code 18” Signal Smooth White head?: This drumhead is constructed from a single ply of 14mil film. This makes it thicker than standard 10mil single-ply heads, providing extra durability for heavier playing styles.
What kind of finish does this drumhead have?: It features a 'Smooth White' finish. This provides a clean aesthetic and a sound that is typically brighter than a coated head but warmer than a completely clear head.
Is this head suitable for heavy hitters?: Yes, it is specifically designed for medium to heavy hitters. The 14mil design is intended to handle energetic rehearsals and live performances without failing prematurely.
What is the typical price for the 18” Signal head?: The typical price for this specific model is approximately £27. This makes it a cost-effective option for drummers looking for professional-grade replacement parts.
Can I use this head for recording?: Yes, it is suitable for studio use. It offers a focused response and dependable tone, which helps in capturing a consistent drum sound during recording sessions.
How does the rim construction affect performance?: The head uses a solid rim construction designed for stability. This ensures consistent tension across the head and helps the drum stay in tune over long periods of use.
What diameter is this specific Signal head?: This specific model is 18 inches in diameter. It is usually fitted to large floor toms or small bass drums.
Does a 14mil single-ply head sound different from a 2-ply head?: Yes, a 14mil single-ply head generally has more resonance and a wider tuning range than a 2-ply head of similar total thickness. It provides a more open sound while still being tough.
Is the Signal Smooth White good for jazz or light playing?: While it can be used for any style, its 14mil thickness is optimized for projection and power. Lighter players might find a thinner 10mil head more sensitive to soft ghost notes.
How does the Smooth White finish affect stick feel?: The smooth finish offers less friction than a textured coated head. This results in a slicker feel and a sharp attack, which is preferred by many rock and pop drummers.
Will this head fit any 18-inch drum?: It is designed to fit standard 18-inch acoustic drum hoops. It is compatible with most major drum brands, provided the shell is a standard 18-inch diameter.
What is the main benefit of the Signal series over the Code Generator series?: The Signal series uses a single 14mil ply for an open but tough sound. The Generator series typically uses two plies, which offers more dampening and a different harmonic profile.