What is the primary purpose of the Evans EQ3 Resonant head?

The primary purpose is to serve as a front (resonant) bass drum head that provides a punchy, short sound. It is designed to be microphone-friendly for both live performances and studio recording sessions.

What size is this specific drum head?

This specific model is designed for bass drums with a 20-inch diameter. It will not fit 18-inch or 22-inch drums.

Does this drum head include a microphone port?

Yes, it features a pre-cut mic port. The port is equipped with a sleeve that helps focus the pitch and protects the head from damage.

What does the internal overtone control ring do?

The internal overtone control ring is designed to dampen unwanted ringing and high frequencies. This results in a shorter decay and a warmer, more focused punch.

What is the finish of the Evans EQ3 Resonant 20"?

This drum head has a professional black finish. It is also available in other variations like Smooth White, though this specific model is black.

Is this head suitable for studio recording?

Yes, it is highly suitable for the studio. The combination of the control ring and the mic port sleeve makes it easier for engineers to capture a clean, punchy kick sound.

How does the mic port sleeve protect the drum head?

The sleeve reinforces the edges of the pre-cut hole. This prevents the drum head from splitting or tearing when microphones are inserted or adjusted.

Can this head be used as a batter (striking) head?

No, this is a resonant head designed specifically for the front of the bass drum. Using it as a batter head would likely result in poor sound and premature damage.

What kind of sound decay does the EQ3 provide?

The EQ3 provides a short decay. This means the sound of the bass drum stops quickly after being struck, preventing a 'boomy' or lingering resonance.

How does this compare to the Evans EQ4 series?

While the EQ3 Resonant is a specific front-side head with a port, heads like the EQ4 are typically used to provide different overtone characteristics. The EQ3 is more focused on being microphone-ready out of the box.

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

The typical price for this drum head in the United Kingdom is approximately £59. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.

Does the EQ3 Resonant require extra internal muffling?

Because it features an internal overtone control ring, it requires less additional muffling than a standard single-ply head. However, drummers can still add internal dampening if they desire an even shorter sound.

Gear article

Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head 20"

The Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head 20" is a professional-grade front-facing drumhead designed to produce a focused, punchy sound with a short decay. It is specifically engineered for microphone-friendly performance in both live and studio environments through the use of an offset mic port and internal overtone control.

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Overview

The Evans EQ3 Resonant series represents a specialised solution for the front of the bass drum. This 20-inch black model is constructed to provide a controlled, short sound that simplifies the process of achieving a professional bass drum tone. By balancing resonance and dampening, it addresses the common requirements of modern drumming where clarity and punch are prioritised over long, sustained ringing.

Key Features and Technical Design

The EQ3 Resonant head incorporates several design elements intended to improve both sound quality and practical use for engineers:

Internal Overtone Control Ring: This ring is designed to be microphone-friendly, reducing unwanted frequencies before they reach the mic.
Mic Port Sleeve: An offset 5-inch port allows for easy microphone placement. The plastic sleeve surrounding the port serves a dual purpose: it focuses the pitch of the air exiting the drum and protects the head from tearing during microphone setup.
Black Finish: Provides a classic, professional aesthetic suitable for any kit configuration.

Sonic Character

The sonic profile of the EQ3 Resonant is characterised by warmth and punch. Due to the internal control ring, the decay is notably short, preventing the bass drum from sounding 'boomy' or washed out. This makes it particularly effective in scenarios where a tight, rhythmic foundation is required. The mic port sleeve further assists in defining the pitch, ensuring the low-end remains articulate rather than muddy.

Suitability and Use Cases

This head is ideally suited for drummers who frequently perform live or record in a studio. Because the design is 'microphone-friendly,' it reduces the amount of external muffling (such as pillows or blankets) required inside the drum shell. It is a robust choice for genres requiring a modern, punchy kick sound, such as rock, pop, and fusion.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other Evans products like the EQ3 Resonant Smooth White (No Port) version, this black ported model offers more immediate attack and easier microphone access. For drummers seeking a vintage, open tone, the Evans 56 Calftone series (available in sizes like 18" or 26") provides a more traditional, warm resonance compared to the EQ3's focused punch. For players requiring near-silent practice, the Remo Silentstroke 16" serves a completely different purpose, whereas the EQ3 is built for full-volume performance. Compared to single-ply heads without dampening, such as the Attack ProFlex1, the EQ3 provides significantly more control over overtones.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Evans EQ3 Resonant head?: The primary purpose is to serve as a front (resonant) bass drum head that provides a punchy, short sound. It is designed to be microphone-friendly for both live performances and studio recording sessions.
What size is this specific drum head?: This specific model is designed for bass drums with a 20-inch diameter. It will not fit 18-inch or 22-inch drums.
Does this drum head include a microphone port?: Yes, it features a pre-cut mic port. The port is equipped with a sleeve that helps focus the pitch and protects the head from damage.
What does the internal overtone control ring do?: The internal overtone control ring is designed to dampen unwanted ringing and high frequencies. This results in a shorter decay and a warmer, more focused punch.
What is the finish of the Evans EQ3 Resonant 20"?: This drum head has a professional black finish. It is also available in other variations like Smooth White, though this specific model is black.
Is this head suitable for studio recording?: Yes, it is highly suitable for the studio. The combination of the control ring and the mic port sleeve makes it easier for engineers to capture a clean, punchy kick sound.
How does the mic port sleeve protect the drum head?: The sleeve reinforces the edges of the pre-cut hole. This prevents the drum head from splitting or tearing when microphones are inserted or adjusted.
Can this head be used as a batter (striking) head?: No, this is a resonant head designed specifically for the front of the bass drum. Using it as a batter head would likely result in poor sound and premature damage.
What kind of sound decay does the EQ3 provide?: The EQ3 provides a short decay. This means the sound of the bass drum stops quickly after being struck, preventing a 'boomy' or lingering resonance.
How does this compare to the Evans EQ4 series?: While the EQ3 Resonant is a specific front-side head with a port, heads like the EQ4 are typically used to provide different overtone characteristics. The EQ3 is more focused on being microphone-ready out of the box.
What is the typical price for this 20-inch head?: The typical price for this drum head in the United Kingdom is approximately £59. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Does the EQ3 Resonant require extra internal muffling?: Because it features an internal overtone control ring, it requires less additional muffling than a standard single-ply head. However, drummers can still add internal dampening if they desire an even shorter sound.