What is the primary material used in the Evans 56 Calftone?

It is made from an advanced 12mil synthetic blend that incorporates Mylar to replicate the feel of natural calfskin.

Does this drumhead include Level 360 Technology?

Yes, it features Level 360 Technology, which uses an enhanced vertical collar design to ensure the head fits level on the shell for better resonance.

What kind of tone can I expect from the 20" Calftone?

The head produces a warm, full, and sonically rich tone that mimics the classic sound of Jazz and Golden Era Rock.

Is this head more durable than real calfskin?

Yes, because it is made of synthetic materials, it offers superior durability and consistency compared to natural animal hides.

What size is this specific Evans 56 Calftone model?

This specific model is designed for a 20-inch bass drum.

How does the Level 360 collar affect tuning?

The design provides a level fit against the shell, which results in an easier tuning process and a wider overall tuning range.

What is the thickness of the 56 Calftone bass drum head?

The head features a single ply with a thickness of 12mil.

Is the drum shell included with this purchase?

No, this product is the drumhead only; the drum shell is not included.

Which musical genres are best suited for the Calftone series?

It is highly recommended for Jazz and Golden Era Rock due to its vintage-style warmth and response.

How does the 20" Calftone compare to the EQ4 version?

While both use the Calftone material, the EQ4 version generally includes internal overtone control rings, whereas this standard version prioritises full resonance.

Can this head be used as both a batter and a resonant head?

While typically used as a batter head for its specific feel, its warm tonal properties also make it suitable for use as a resonant head in vintage setups.

What is the typical price for this 20-inch drumhead?

The typical price for the Evans 56 Calftone 20" Bass Drum Head is approximately £53.00.

Gear article

Evans 56 Calftone 20" Bass Drum Head

The Evans 56 Calftone 20" Bass Drum Head is a synthetic drumhead designed to replicate the warm, rich tonal characteristics of traditional calfskin. Utilising a 12mil Mylar-based synthetic blend, it provides the vintage aesthetic and sonic profile of the Golden Era of Jazz and Rock with the durability and consistency of modern manufacturing.

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Background and Design

The Evans 56 Calftone series was developed to bridge the gap between historical drum sounds and contemporary reliability. Traditionally, drumheads were made from animal hides, which provided a distinct warmth but were notoriously susceptible to environmental changes. The Calftone range uses a 12mil advanced synthetic blend combined with Mylar to mimic the physical and sonic properties of those natural skins while maintaining the structural integrity expected of modern heads.

Technical Features

A primary innovation of this model is the inclusion of Evans Level 360 Technology. This design features an enhanced vertical collar that ensures the head sits perfectly level against the drum shell's bearing edge. By providing a consistent contact point, the Level 360 design allows for a wider tuning range and easier tensioning, ensuring the 20-inch shell can resonate to its fullest potential.

Tonal Character

The sound of the 56 Calftone is described as warm, full, and sonically rich. It is specifically engineered to evoke the 'Golden Era' of recording, offering a rounded low-end and a soft attack that is highly sought after by Jazz and traditional Rock drummers. Unlike true calfskin, these synthetic materials offer a consistent response regardless of humidity or temperature fluctuations.

Target Audience

This head is primarily suited for drummers seeking a vintage aesthetic and sound. It is an ideal choice for Jazz musicians who require a resonant, expressive bass drum, as well as Rock drummers looking for the organic thump associated with mid-century recordings. Its 20-inch diameter makes it a versatile option for standard-sized drum kits.

Market Comparison

Within the Evans catalogue, the Calftone 20" sits alongside specialized variations such as the Calftone EQ4, which features internal dampening. In the wider market, it competes with other vintage-style heads like the Remo Fiberskyn or the DW AA Coated series. However, the Calftone distinguishes itself through the specific 12mil thickness and the Level 360 collar, which offers a different seating profile compared to products like the Attack ProFlex1 or standard Mylar heads.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used in the Evans 56 Calftone?: It is made from an advanced 12mil synthetic blend that incorporates Mylar to replicate the feel of natural calfskin.
Does this drumhead include Level 360 Technology?: Yes, it features Level 360 Technology, which uses an enhanced vertical collar design to ensure the head fits level on the shell for better resonance.
What kind of tone can I expect from the 20" Calftone?: The head produces a warm, full, and sonically rich tone that mimics the classic sound of Jazz and Golden Era Rock.
Is this head more durable than real calfskin?: Yes, because it is made of synthetic materials, it offers superior durability and consistency compared to natural animal hides.
What size is this specific Evans 56 Calftone model?: This specific model is designed for a 20-inch bass drum.
How does the Level 360 collar affect tuning?: The design provides a level fit against the shell, which results in an easier tuning process and a wider overall tuning range.
What is the thickness of the 56 Calftone bass drum head?: The head features a single ply with a thickness of 12mil.
Is the drum shell included with this purchase?: No, this product is the drumhead only; the drum shell is not included.
Which musical genres are best suited for the Calftone series?: It is highly recommended for Jazz and Golden Era Rock due to its vintage-style warmth and response.
How does the 20" Calftone compare to the EQ4 version?: While both use the Calftone material, the EQ4 version generally includes internal overtone control rings, whereas this standard version prioritises full resonance.
Can this head be used as both a batter and a resonant head?: While typically used as a batter head for its specific feel, its warm tonal properties also make it suitable for use as a resonant head in vintage setups.
What is the typical price for this 20-inch drumhead?: The typical price for the Evans 56 Calftone 20" Bass Drum Head is approximately £53.00.