Gear article

Code Drumheads CODE Law 8 Clear Tom Head

The Code Law 8 is an 8-inch clear drumhead designed for versatility, featuring a single-ply construction with a centrally placed 5 mil PET donut dot. It is engineered to provide a strong attack and dampened sustain, making it suitable for both batter and resonant applications.

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Overview and Design

The Code Law 8-inch clear head is part of the Law series from Code Drumheads, a brand known for providing high-quality drum components at an accessible price point. The head is constructed from a single ply of film, reinforced by a 'donut dot' made of 5 mil PET. This design choice aims to bridge the gap between the sensitivity of a thin head and the durability of a reinforced head.

The 'donut' configuration is specifically intended to focus the sound towards the midrange. By placing the reinforcement in the centre, the head maintains the vibration properties of a single-ply head at its edges while controlling overtones in the primary striking zone.

Sound Character and Performance

The primary sonic characteristic of the Law 8 is a strong, immediate attack followed by a slightly dampened sustain. This makes it particularly effective for drummers seeking a 'punchy' sound without the excessive ringing often associated with standard clear single-ply heads.

Key features of its sound profile include: * Enhanced Midtones: The 5 mil PET dot reinforces middle frequencies. * Sensitivity: Despite the reinforcement, the single-ply construction ensures the head remains responsive to lighter strokes. * Controlled Decay: The added mass of the dot naturally shortens the sustain, providing a more focused note.

Versatility in Application

While traditionally sized for a small tom, the Law series is marketed as an all-round experimental head. In larger sizes, Law heads are frequently used as alternative snare heads because the PET dot provides the extra durability required for backbeats.

Conversely, the Law 8 excels as a resonant head. In this role, the single-ply design allows the drum to breathe, while the dot helps to tame unruly overtones that can occur in small-diameter toms. This dual-purpose nature allows drummers to use it on either the top or bottom of the drum depending on the desired level of focus.

Market Comparison

Positioned within the 'Parts & Spares' category with a typical price of approximately £13, the Code Law 8 is an affordable alternative to premium reinforced heads like the Evans MS3 Marching Snare side or specialised tom heads from larger manufacturers. It is often compared to other utility drum parts, such as the Tama Accu-Strike Iron Cobra Beater or Gotoh 203B-4 Bass Bridges, in terms of being a functional, high-value upgrade for a standard instrument setup.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the dot on the Code Law 8?
The Code Law 8 features a 5 mil PET donut dot. This adds specific mass to the centre of the head to control sustain and enhance midtones.
Can the Code Law 8 be used as a resonant head?
Yes, it works effectively as a resonant tom head. The single-ply construction allows for good resonance, while the dot helps focus the tone.
How many plies does this drumhead have?
It is a single-ply drumhead. The 'donut dot' is an additional layer of material applied to the centre, but the base construction remains a single ply.
What is the main benefit of the 'donut dot' design?
The dot provides a stronger attack and extra durability. It also brings more midtones to the sound while retaining the sensitivity of a single-ply head.
Is the Code Law 8 suitable for snare drums?
In its 8-inch size, it is less common for snares, but the Law range in general is recommended as an alternative snare head due to the focus provided by the PET dot.
What kind of finish does the Law 8 have?
The Code Law 8 has a clear finish. This typically results in a brighter sound with more 'slap' compared to coated heads.
What is the typical price for a Code Law 8 head?
The typical price range for this specific model is approximately £13.00. This makes it an affordable option for drummers looking to experiment with their sound.
How does the sustain of the Law 8 compare to standard clear heads?
The sustain is slightly dampened compared to a standard single-ply clear head. This is due to the 5 mil PET dot which reduces unwanted overtones.
Is the Code Law 8 durable enough for heavy hitters?
The addition of the PET dot provides extra durability compared to a standard single-ply head. It is designed to withstand more impact while maintaining sensitivity.
What frequencies does the Code Law 8 emphasize?
The head is designed to bring more midtones to the drum's sound. The PET dot specifically targets these frequencies to provide a fuller tone.
Who is the manufacturer of the Law 8?
The head is manufactured by Code Drumheads. They are a brand focused on producing quality drumheads and accessories at competitive prices.
Where can I see a demonstration of the Code Law range?
Mike from Code Drum Heads has produced demonstration videos for the range. These allow potential users to hear the specific sound characteristics before purchasing.