What is the primary material construction of the Code 16" Generator Clear?

The head features a 2-ply construction, which provides enhanced durability and a more focused sound compared to single-ply models.

Does this drum head include any built-in dampening?

Yes, it features a bonded ring around the edge of the head. This ring is designed to control overtones and produce a punchier, dryer sound.

What drum sizes is this specific head compatible with?

This specific model is 16 inches in diameter. It is designed to fit 16-inch floor toms or 16-inch bass drums.

Is the 16" Generator Clear intended for use as a batter or resonant head?

It is best used as a batter head. Its durable nature and dampening ring are specifically designed to receive the impact of drumsticks or beaters.

How would you describe the overall tone of this drum head?

The tone is described as dry, warm, and punchy. It focuses on a defined attack with a controlled decay.

Is this head suitable for heavy hitters?

Yes, the manufacturer specifically recommends this head for heavy-hitters due to its durable 2-ply construction.

Can this 16-inch head be used on a bass drum?

Yes, while primarily a tom head, the larger sizes in the Generator series, including the 16", work well as bass drum batter heads due to their attack and durability.

What is the typical price range for this product?

The Code 16" Generator Clear typically retails for approximately £26 in the UK market.

What is the difference between this and a standard clear head without a ring?

Standard clear heads often have long sustain and ringing overtones. The Generator Clear uses its bonded ring to shorten that sustain for a more 'pre-mixed' studio sound.

Does the clear finish affect the sound differently than a coated finish?

Yes, the clear film typically offers a sharper, more pronounced attack and more brightness than a coated head, which would be slightly warmer and softer.

What genre of music is this head best suited for?

It is ideal for genres requiring high volume and punch, such as rock and metal, though its warm and dry character makes it versatile for many styles.

How does this head help with drum tuning?

The bonded ring helps to eliminate troublesome high-frequency overtones, which can often make drums difficult to tune consistently.

Gear article

Code Drumheads 16" Generator Clear Drum Head

The Code Drumheads 16" Generator Clear is a durable, two-ply drum head designed primarily for use as a batter head on floor toms or small bass drums. It features a bonded internal ring to control overtones, delivering a punchy and defined attack suitable for heavy-hitting performance styles.

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Overview

The Code Drumheads 16" Generator Clear is a specialized component within the 'Parts & Spares' category, specifically engineered for drummers who require longevity and controlled resonance. Priced competitively at approximately £26, this head is part of the Generator series, which is known for its robust construction and focused sound profile. The 16-inch variant is particularly versatile, serving as a standard floor tom batter or a compact bass drum head.

Design and Construction

The Generator Clear is built using a two-ply design, which naturally increases the durability of the head compared to single-ply alternatives. A defining feature of this model is the bonded ring around the edge. This internal dampening mechanism is designed to reduce unwanted high-frequency overtones and ring, resulting in a 'dryer' sound that emphasises the fundamental pitch of the drum. The clear film provides a sharp, bright initial attack compared to coated versions.

Sonic Character

The sonic profile of the 16" Generator Clear is characterised by a warm, punchy, and dry quality. The combination of the two-ply film and the perimeter ring ensures that the sustain is short and controlled, making it ideal for recording or live situations where excess 'wash' is undesirable. Despite its dryness, it maintains a warm low-end, providing the depth expected from a large tom or bass drum.

Target Audience

This head is specifically marketed toward 'heavy-hitters'—drummers who play with significant force and require a head that will not easily stretch or break. Because of its defined attack and durability, it is well-suited for rock, metal, and other high-volume genres. It also appeals to budget-conscious musicians seeking professional-grade dampening features at a fair price point.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to other professional heads like the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side 14", the Generator Clear is designed for a very different application, focusing on low-end resonance rather than high-tension snare response. Unlike standard single-ply heads, the Generator series provides a pre-dampened sound, reducing the need for external muffling such as tape or gels. Its 16-inch diameter puts it in competition with various floor tom heads, where it distinguishes itself through its specific bonded-ring construction.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material construction of the Code 16" Generator Clear?: The head features a 2-ply construction, which provides enhanced durability and a more focused sound compared to single-ply models.
Does this drum head include any built-in dampening?: Yes, it features a bonded ring around the edge of the head. This ring is designed to control overtones and produce a punchier, dryer sound.
What drum sizes is this specific head compatible with?: This specific model is 16 inches in diameter. It is designed to fit 16-inch floor toms or 16-inch bass drums.
Is the 16" Generator Clear intended for use as a batter or resonant head?: It is best used as a batter head. Its durable nature and dampening ring are specifically designed to receive the impact of drumsticks or beaters.
How would you describe the overall tone of this drum head?: The tone is described as dry, warm, and punchy. It focuses on a defined attack with a controlled decay.
Is this head suitable for heavy hitters?: Yes, the manufacturer specifically recommends this head for heavy-hitters due to its durable 2-ply construction.
Can this 16-inch head be used on a bass drum?: Yes, while primarily a tom head, the larger sizes in the Generator series, including the 16", work well as bass drum batter heads due to their attack and durability.
What is the typical price range for this product?: The Code 16" Generator Clear typically retails for approximately £26 in the UK market.
What is the difference between this and a standard clear head without a ring?: Standard clear heads often have long sustain and ringing overtones. The Generator Clear uses its bonded ring to shorten that sustain for a more 'pre-mixed' studio sound.
Does the clear finish affect the sound differently than a coated finish?: Yes, the clear film typically offers a sharper, more pronounced attack and more brightness than a coated head, which would be slightly warmer and softer.
What genre of music is this head best suited for?: It is ideal for genres requiring high volume and punch, such as rock and metal, though its warm and dry character makes it versatile for many styles.
How does this head help with drum tuning?: The bonded ring helps to eliminate troublesome high-frequency overtones, which can often make drums difficult to tune consistently.