Gear article

Evans EC2 Clear SST 10" Drum Head

The Evans EC2 Clear SST 10" is a professional-grade batter head constructed from two plies of 7mil film designed for rack toms. It incorporates Sound Shaping Technology (SST) and Level 360 Technology to provide a pre-EQ'd sound with controlled sustain and an articulate attack.

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Overview

The Evans EC2 Edge Control SST Clear 10" drum head is engineered to provide drummers with a balanced, focused tone that requires minimal external muffling. By combining two plies of 7mil film, the head offers significant durability while maintaining the bright, articulate 'smack' typically associated with clear drum heads. It is specifically optimised for tom-toms, providing a controlled sustain that avoids the overtones often found in single-ply alternatives.

Sound Shaping Technology (SST)

A primary feature of the EC2 series is the Sound Shaping Technology (SST). This involves damping rings mounted on the underside of the head around the edges. Unlike a universal dampening ring, the SST rings are sized proportionally to each specific drum diameter. This allows the 10" model to maintain a well-balanced tone that acts as a 'pre-EQ,' filtering out harsh frequencies while allowing the natural resonance of the drum shell to come through.

Level 360 Technology

The EC2 includes Evans' proprietary Level 360 Technology. This design features a vertically enhanced collar that ensures the head makes even contact with the bearing edge of the drum shell. The benefits of this design include:

  • Ease of Tuning: The head sits flat on the edge, reducing the effort needed to find a clear pitch.
  • Extended Pitch Range: It performs consistently at both high and low tensions.
  • Resonance: The 360-degree contact surface allows the head to vibrate more freely with the shell.

Sound Profile and Suitability

The character of the EC2 Clear is defined by a sharp attack and a controlled, punchy decay. It is ideally suited for drummers who prefer a modern, studio-ready sound without the need for additional gels or tape. Its 2-ply construction makes it a reliable choice for heavier hitters or touring musicians who require a head that can hold its tune over long periods. While it is versatile across genres, it excels in rock, pop, and fusion where a focused tom sound is required.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to single-ply heads like the Evans G1, the EC2 offers significantly more control and less sustain. When compared to coated versions of the same head, the Clear EC2 provides a more articulate, brighter attack. In contrast to other dampened heads, the SST system provides a more natural decay because the damping is integrated into the head's construction rather than applied as a separate floating ring.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Evans EC2 Clear 10" head?
The head is constructed using two plies of film, each measuring 7mil in thickness, for a total thickness of 14mil.
What does SST stand for in Evans drum heads?
SST stands for Sound Shaping Technology, which uses damping rings of varying sizes to control sustain and overtones.
How does Level 360 Technology benefit the drummer?
Level 360 features a vertically enhanced collar that allows the head to seat perfectly on the bearing edge, improving tuning ease and resonance.
Is this head suitable for use as a resonant head?
No, the EC2 is designed specifically as a batter (top) head due to its 2-ply construction and integrated damping rings.
What kind of attack does the clear version of the EC2 provide?
The clear film provides an articulate, sharp attack with a noticeable 'smack' compared to coated versions.
Does this head require additional tape or dampening gels?
Generally no, as the SST rings are designed to provide built-in sustain control and acts as a pre-EQ for the drum.
Can the 10" EC2 handle high-tension tuning?
Yes, thanks to the Level 360 design and 2-ply construction, it maintains a wide pitch range and remains stable at high tensions.
What is the typical price range for this drum head?
The Evans EC2 10" Clear head typically retails for approximately EUR 19.
How does the EC2 differ from the Evans G2?
While both are 2-ply 7mil heads, the EC2 includes the SST damping rings for more controlled sustain, whereas the G2 is open and resonant.
Where are the damping rings located on the EC2?
The rings are mounted on the underside of the drum head around the edges.
Is the 10" EC2 durable for heavy hitters?
Yes, the 2-ply 7mil construction is designed for durability and can withstand aggressive playing styles.
What genres is the EC2 Clear best suited for?
It is ideal for rock, pop, and metal, or any situation where a focused, punchy tom sound with controlled overtones is desired.