What material is used for the DW AA snare head?

The head is manufactured using 2-ply Dupont A film, which is known for its durability and consistent vibration characteristics.

What is a Crimplock collar?

The Crimplock collar is a Remo-patented design that combines a crimped flesh hoop with a glued channel. This provides double the security to prevent the film from pulling out under high tension.

What is the diameter of this specific head?

This specific model is designed for 12-inch snare drums. Ensure your drum shell measurement matches this diameter before purchase.

How does the white coating affect the sound?

The coating adds a layer of warmth and controls sustain. It also provides the necessary texture for drummers who play with brushes.

Is this a single-ply or double-ply head?

This is a 2-ply (double-ply) head, which generally offers more durability and a deeper tone than single-ply heads.

Can this head be used for high-tension tuning?

Yes, the Crimplock collar is specifically designed to handle high-tension tuning, offering more rigidity and better reflexes than standard collars.

What musical styles is the DW AA head best for?

It is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of styles, particularly those requiring warm tones and ample attack, such as rock and pop.

Does this head fit all 12-inch snare drums?

Yes, it is a standard 12-inch diameter head and should fit any standard 12-inch snare drum regardless of the brand.

Who manufactures these heads for DW?

These heads are manufactured by Remo, featuring their patented technology but tailored to DW's specific quality standards.

What is the typical price for this spare part?

The typical price for this drumhead is approximately GBP 20.00, making it an affordable professional-grade upgrade.

How does the AA head differ from a standard Remo Emperor?

While both are 2-ply, the DW AA features the Crimplock collar, which offers increased rigidity compared to the standard open-channel hoop found on many other heads.

Is this head suitable for use as a resonant (bottom) head?

No, this is a coated 2-ply batter head intended for the top of the snare. Resonant heads, like the Evans MS3, are typically much thinner and clear.

Gear article

DW Snare Drum Head AA White Coated 12"

The DW Snare Drum Head AA White Coated 12" is a professional-grade 2-ply drumhead manufactured for DW by Remo. It features a specific construction utilizing Dupont A film and a hybrid Crimplock collar designed for high-tension stability and warm, versatile tonal characteristics.

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Overview and Construction

The DW AA White Coated series represents a collaboration between DW Drums and Remo to produce a head that meets the high-tension requirements of modern snare drums. This specific 12-inch model is constructed from two plies of durable Dupont A film, providing a robust playing surface that can withstand heavy hitters while maintaining sensitivity.

The defining technical feature of this head is the patented Crimplock high-tension collar. Unlike standard drumheads that rely solely on glue or a crimped channel, the Crimplock system utilises both methods. The film is folded over a steel insert and then pressed into a U-shaped channel, which is then filled with glue. This creates a rigid flesh hoop that resists pulling out under extreme tension.

Sound Profile and Character

The AA White Coated 12" head is designed to deliver a balance between warmth and percussive attack. The 2-ply construction naturally dampens high-frequency overtones, resulting in a 'fatter' and more controlled sound compared to single-ply alternatives. The white coating adds a subtle grit to the attack and facilitates brush work.

Key sonic characteristics include: * Warmth: Enhanced low-mid frequencies suitable for studio and live settings. * Attack: A distinct 'crack' that cuts through a mix without being overly harsh. * Versatility: The head is responsive across a wide tuning range, from low, slack tunings to high-pitched, snappy settings.

Target User and Application

This 12-inch head is intended for drummers using smaller auxiliary snares or specialized 12-inch primary snare drums. Because of its durable 2-ply design and Crimplock collar, it is particularly suited for players who require high-tension tuning without the risk of the head slipping or losing seat on the bearing edge. It serves a wide range of musical genres including rock, pop, and fusion where a controlled, warm snare tone is desired.

Comparative Context

Within the market for parts and spares, the DW AA head competes with other specialized snare heads like the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side Head, though the latter is intended for the resonant side rather than the batter side. Compared to standard Remo Ambassador or Emperor heads, the DW AA version offers the specific advantage of the Crimplock collar, providing more rigidity and better reflexes for drummers who find standard hoops too flexible.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is used for the DW AA snare head?: The head is manufactured using 2-ply Dupont A film, which is known for its durability and consistent vibration characteristics.
What is a Crimplock collar?: The Crimplock collar is a Remo-patented design that combines a crimped flesh hoop with a glued channel. This provides double the security to prevent the film from pulling out under high tension.
What is the diameter of this specific head?: This specific model is designed for 12-inch snare drums. Ensure your drum shell measurement matches this diameter before purchase.
How does the white coating affect the sound?: The coating adds a layer of warmth and controls sustain. It also provides the necessary texture for drummers who play with brushes.
Is this a single-ply or double-ply head?: This is a 2-ply (double-ply) head, which generally offers more durability and a deeper tone than single-ply heads.
Can this head be used for high-tension tuning?: Yes, the Crimplock collar is specifically designed to handle high-tension tuning, offering more rigidity and better reflexes than standard collars.
What musical styles is the DW AA head best for?: It is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of styles, particularly those requiring warm tones and ample attack, such as rock and pop.
Does this head fit all 12-inch snare drums?: Yes, it is a standard 12-inch diameter head and should fit any standard 12-inch snare drum regardless of the brand.
Who manufactures these heads for DW?: These heads are manufactured by Remo, featuring their patented technology but tailored to DW's specific quality standards.
What is the typical price for this spare part?: The typical price for this drumhead is approximately GBP 20.00, making it an affordable professional-grade upgrade.
How does the AA head differ from a standard Remo Emperor?: While both are 2-ply, the DW AA features the Crimplock collar, which offers increased rigidity compared to the standard open-channel hoop found on many other heads.
Is this head suitable for use as a resonant (bottom) head?: No, this is a coated 2-ply batter head intended for the top of the snare. Resonant heads, like the Evans MS3, are typically much thinner and clear.