What is the diameter of this drumhead?

The CODE Zero snare batter head described here is 14 inches in diameter, which is the standard size for most modern snare drums.

What does 'single-ply' mean in this context?

Single-ply means the head is made from one layer of film. This typically results in more resonance and sensitivity compared to double-ply heads.

What is the purpose of the black reverse dot?

The reverse dot is a reinforced circle on the underside of the head. it increases the head's lifespan and adds a punchier, more focused sound to the impact.

Is this head coated or clear?

This is a coated drumhead. The coating adds warmth to the tone and provides the necessary texture for drummers who use brushes.

Can I use this on a tom-tom?

While specifically designed as a snare batter head due to the reverse dot reinforcement, it can technically be fitted to any 14-inch drum, though its sonic properties are optimized for snares.

How does the sound compare to a standard single-ply head without a dot?

Compared to a standard ply, the CODE Zero will have slightly fewer wild overtones and a more pronounced 'thump' or punch in the center.

What is the typical price for the CODE Zero 14"?

The typical retail price for this specific model is approximately £17.00, making it a cost-effective option for many players.

Who makes CODE drumheads?

CODE is a British brand that designs and distributes drumheads, known for offering professional features at a more affordable price point than some established competitors.

Is this head suitable for heavy metal?

Yes, the addition of the reverse dot makes it more durable than a standard single-ply head, allowing it to withstand the heavier striking often found in rock and metal.

Is the dot on the top or bottom of the head?

The 'reverse' in the name indicates the dot is applied to the underside of the head. This keeps the playing surface smooth for brushes.

Does this head come with a snare-side resonant head?

No, this is a single batter head. Resonant snare-side heads are much thinner and must be purchased separately.

What kind of tone can I expect from the CODE Zero?

You can expect a warm and rich tone. It is designed to be a versatile head that fits most musical styles by balancing resonance with control.

Gear article

Code Drumheads CODE Zero 14-inch Snare Head

The CODE Zero 14" Snare Batter Head is a coated, single-ply drumhead featuring an integrated black reverse dot for enhanced durability. Designed by Code Drumheads as a versatile all-rounder, it is engineered to provide a warm, rich tone suitable for a broad range of musical genres.

See live prices

Background

Code Drumheads is a UK-based brand that focuses on providing high-quality drum skins at accessible price points. The CODE Zero series represents their approach to the classic single-ply snare head, integrating modern reinforcements to extend the life of the product without sacrificing the natural resonance of the film.

Design and Key Features

The Zero 14" Batter Head is constructed from a single ply of film which is finished with a white coating. The defining feature of this model is the black reverse dot located on the underside of the centre of the head. This design choice serves two purposes: it reinforces the primary impact zone for heavy hitters and helps to focus the note by slightly dampening overtones in the middle of the drum.

Fender Jazzmaster Pickup Covers Aged White

Sonic Character

This head is characterised by a warm and rich tonal profile. While single-ply heads are generally known for their brightness and sustain, the coating and the reverse dot on the CODE Zero provide a punchy impact and a more controlled decay. It maintains enough sensitivity for ghost notes while delivering a solid 'crack' when struck in the centre.

Applications

The CODE Zero is positioned as a versatile 'all-rounder'. It is particularly effective for:

Rock and Pop where a durable but resonant snare sound is required.
Studio recording where controlled overtones are preferred.
General purpose kit maintenance for drummers seeking a balance between price and performance.

Comparative Analysis

Within the wider market of snare heads, the CODE Zero competes with other reinforced single-ply heads such as the Evans Power Center Reverse Dot. While specialized heads like the Evans MS3 are designed specifically for marching applications with high-tension requirements, the CODE Zero is intended for standard drum kit snare drums. At a typical price point of £17, it offers a budget-friendly alternative to premium US-made brands while maintaining professional-grade features like the centre reinforcement.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the diameter of this drumhead?: The CODE Zero snare batter head described here is 14 inches in diameter, which is the standard size for most modern snare drums.
What does 'single-ply' mean in this context?: Single-ply means the head is made from one layer of film. This typically results in more resonance and sensitivity compared to double-ply heads.
What is the purpose of the black reverse dot?: The reverse dot is a reinforced circle on the underside of the head. it increases the head's lifespan and adds a punchier, more focused sound to the impact.
Is this head coated or clear?: This is a coated drumhead. The coating adds warmth to the tone and provides the necessary texture for drummers who use brushes.
Can I use this on a tom-tom?: While specifically designed as a snare batter head due to the reverse dot reinforcement, it can technically be fitted to any 14-inch drum, though its sonic properties are optimized for snares.
How does the sound compare to a standard single-ply head without a dot?: Compared to a standard ply, the CODE Zero will have slightly fewer wild overtones and a more pronounced 'thump' or punch in the center.
What is the typical price for the CODE Zero 14"?: The typical retail price for this specific model is approximately £17.00, making it a cost-effective option for many players.
Who makes CODE drumheads?: CODE is a British brand that designs and distributes drumheads, known for offering professional features at a more affordable price point than some established competitors.
Is this head suitable for heavy metal?: Yes, the addition of the reverse dot makes it more durable than a standard single-ply head, allowing it to withstand the heavier striking often found in rock and metal.
Is the dot on the top or bottom of the head?: The 'reverse' in the name indicates the dot is applied to the underside of the head. This keeps the playing surface smooth for brushes.
Does this head come with a snare-side resonant head?: No, this is a single batter head. Resonant snare-side heads are much thinner and must be purchased separately.
What kind of tone can I expect from the CODE Zero?: You can expect a warm and rich tone. It is designed to be a versatile head that fits most musical styles by balancing resonance with control.