Gear article
Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head (24-inch, No Port)
The Evans EQ3 Resonant Black is a 24-inch bass drum head designed specifically for the front (resonant) side of the instrument. It features an internal overtone control ring and lacks a microphone port, resulting in a warm, punchy tone with a controlled, short decay.

Overview
The Evans EQ3 Resonant Black 24-inch drum head is a specialised front-side head designed for large bass drums. As part of the EQ3 series, this model is engineered to provide balance and focus without the need for extensive internal muffling. Its defining feature is the absence of a pre-cut microphone port, which maximises the surface area of the head to increase resonance and low-end depth.
Technical Features and Design
The construction of the EQ3 Resonant includes an integrated internal overtone control ring. This ring is fixed to the inside of the head to dampen high-frequency overtones and 'settle' the overall pitch of the drum. By reducing unwanted ring at the source, the head provides a more consistent fundamental note. The 24-inch diameter is particularly suited for drummers seeking a significant moving mass of air and a deep, authoritative low-end presence.

Sonic Characteristics
In operation, the EQ3 Resonant Black delivers a sound characterised by warmth and punch. Because it lacks a port, the air within the drum is trapped more effectively, leading to a 'boomier' response compared to ported alternatives, yet the internal ring ensures the decay remains short and manageable. This results in a focused 'thump' that is highly effective in live settings where a controlled stage volume is required.
Target Audience
This head is primarily aimed at drummers who prefer a full, unported aesthetic and sound. It is well-suited for rock, pop, and blues players who use 24-inch bass drums and require a punchy sound with a quick decay. It is also an ideal choice for those who do not use internal microphone placement and prefer the natural rebound and feel of an airtight bass drum.
Comparative Context
Compared to the Evans 56 Calftone series, which offers a vintage aesthetic and more traditional jazz-style resonance, the EQ3 is more modern and controlled. Against alternatives like the Remo Silentstroke, which is designed for low-volume practice, the EQ3 is a full-volume performance head. While the DW Coated Clear 24" provides a brighter attack, the EQ3 Resonant Black focuses more on the low-mid frequencies and overtone management.
Related gear
£50.68 ($64)EVANS
Evans 56 Calftone 18" EQ4 Bass Drum Head
£79.99 ($102)EVANS
Evans EQ3 Resonant Smooth White Bass Drum Head No Port 20"
£62.97 ($80)EVANS
Evans 56 Calftone 26" Bass Drum Head
£32.99 ($42)Attack Drumheads
Attack 24" ProFlex1 1Ply No Overtone Clear Bass Drum Head
£99.99 ($127)Eden Amplification
Eden Atlas Mini Bass Amplifier Head
£35.88 ($46)Remo
Remo Silentstroke 16 Bass Drum Head
£50.00 ($64)DW Drums
DW AA Coated Bass Drum Head 22
£59.00 ($75)DW Drums
DW Bass Drum Head Coated Clear 24"
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary function of the internal overtone control ring?
- The internal ring is designed to settle the tone by dampening high-frequency overtones. This results in a more focused fundamental note and a shorter decay for the bass drum.
- Does this Evans EQ3 head have a hole for a microphone?
- No, this specific model is a 'No Port' version. It has a solid surface which increases the resonance and air pressure within the drum shell.
- How does the lack of a port affect the feel of the bass drum?
- An unported head like this EQ3 creates more air resistance against the beater. This typically results in a more pronounced 'bounce' or rebound for the drummer's foot.
- Is the finish of this drum head matte or glossy?
- This model features a black finish, which provides a sleek, professional aesthetic on the front of the kit. It is part of the standard EQ3 Resonant Black product line.
- What is the diameter of this specific head?
- This head is 24 inches in diameter, making it suitable for standard 24-inch bass drum shells. It will not fit 20-inch or 22-inch drums.
- What kind of sound decay can I expect?
- The head is designed for a short decay. The internal control ring ensures that the note stops quickly rather than ringing out indefinitely.
- How does the EQ3 compare to the Evans EQ4?
- While both use overtone control, the EQ3 Resonant is specifically designed for the front of the drum. The EQ4 series, such as the 18" Calftone EQ4, is often used as a batter head with different ply configurations.
- Can I use this head on the batter side (the side I hit)?
- This is a Resonant head, specifically designed for the front of the drum. While it could technically be mounted on the batter side, it is not optimised for the impact of a beater and may not provide the intended durability or tone.
- Is this head suitable for recording?
- Yes, though the lack of a port means you must mic the head from the outside or use a boundary mic inside. It provides a very full, warm sound that engineers often appreciate for its natural low end.
- What genres of music best suit the EQ3 Resonant Black?
- It is highly versatile but excels in rock, pop, and fusion where a punchy, warm, and controlled bass drum sound is required. Its short decay helps maintain clarity in faster musical passages.
- Does this head come in other sizes?
- Yes, Evans produces EQ3 Resonant heads in various sizes, including 20-inch and 22-inch versions, with both ported and non-ported options available.
- How does this compare to an Attack ProFlex1 drum head?
- The Attack ProFlex1 is a 1-ply head with 'no overtone' properties, but the Evans EQ3 uses a specific internal ring system to achieve its settled tone and punchy character.
