What is the thickness of the Evans EQ3 Resonant head?

The head is constructed from a single ply of 7.5mil film, providing a balance of sensitivity and durability.

Does this drum head have a microphone port?

No, this specific model is a 'No Port' version, meaning the front surface is solid without a pre-cut hole for microphones.

How does the lack of a port affect the feel of the drum?

The lack of a port increases the air pressure inside the drum, which provides the drummer with more beater rebound from the batter head.

What is the purpose of the internal overtone control ring?

The internal ring is designed to curb excessive resonance and overtones, focusing the sound into a punchy 'thud' with more low-end emphasis.

What does 'Smooth White' mean in terms of finish?

Smooth White refers to the opaque white finish of the film, which offers a warm tonal character and a clean, classic appearance.

What is Evans Level 360 Technology?

Level 360 involves a specialized collar design that ensures the head fits level on the drum shell, facilitating easier tuning and better frequency response.

Is this head suitable for studio recording?

Yes, it is designed for both live and studio performance, offering expressive tonality and controlled mid-range movement.

What size drum does this head fit?

This specific model is designed to fit a bass drum with a 20-inch diameter.

How does the EQ3 compare to the EQ4?

The EQ3 is a resonant-specific head with an internal ring, whereas the EQ4 is often used as a batter head and features different overtone control properties.

Does this product include the drum shell?

No, the product consists only of the 20-inch drum head; the drum itself is not included.

What type of sound profile should I expect?

You should expect a warm tone with a pronounced low-end, reduced high-end crispness, and a punchy, controlled sustain.

Can I use this as a batter (striking) head?

While technically possible, the EQ3 Resonant is specifically engineered to be used on the front (resonant) side of the bass drum to control the overall sound and projection.

Gear article

Evans EQ3 Resonant Smooth White Bass Drum Head (20-inch No Port)

The Evans EQ3 Resonant Smooth White is a 20-inch single-ply bass drum head designed for both live and studio applications. It features a 7.5mil film and an internal overtone control ring to deliver a deep low-end thump with controlled resonance.

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Overview and Construction

The Evans EQ3 Resonant Smooth White is a professional-grade bass drum resonant head constructed from a single ply of 7.5mil film. This specific 20-inch model is designed without a microphone port, providing a solid surface that maximises the air movement within the drum shell. The 'Smooth White' finish offers a clean aesthetic while contributing to the head's specific tonal characteristics, balancing modern punch with a classic look.

Damping and Overtone Control

To manage the sustain and ring inherent in a single-ply head, the EQ3 features an integrated internal overtone control ring. This ring is fixed to the underside of the head to curb excessive resonance. The result is a more focused 'thud' and enhanced punch, allowing for a controlled low-end response without the need for additional external muffling devices like pillows or blankets inside the drum.

Level 360 Technology

Like most modern Evans products, this head incorporates Level 360 Technology. This design features a steeper collar shape that ensures the head sits perfectly flat against the drum shell's bearing edge. This '360-degree' fit allows for easier tuning, a wider tuning range, and improved contact with the shell, which enhances the overall resonance and projection of the instrument.

Sound Character and Performance

Because this version of the EQ3 has no port, it produces a warmer tone with less high-end click and a more pronounced low-end. The lack of an air exit hole creates more back-pressure, which results in increased rebound for the beater on the batter side. This makes the drum feel more responsive to the player while delivering an expressive tonality characterised by 'mid-range movement' and a deep thump.

Compatibility and Alternatives

The 20-inch EQ3 is suitable for drummers seeking a full, unported sound in jazz, rock, or studio settings where a resonant, round bass drum tone is required. For players seeking different tonal profiles, Evans offers the '56 Calftone series for a vintage calfskin vibe or the EQ4 for different damping properties. Other manufacturers offer alternatives such as the Attack ProFlex1 for a clear, no-overtone sound, or the Remo Silentstroke for low-volume practice applications.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Evans EQ3 Resonant head?: The head is constructed from a single ply of 7.5mil film, providing a balance of sensitivity and durability.
Does this drum head have a microphone port?: No, this specific model is a 'No Port' version, meaning the front surface is solid without a pre-cut hole for microphones.
How does the lack of a port affect the feel of the drum?: The lack of a port increases the air pressure inside the drum, which provides the drummer with more beater rebound from the batter head.
What is the purpose of the internal overtone control ring?: The internal ring is designed to curb excessive resonance and overtones, focusing the sound into a punchy 'thud' with more low-end emphasis.
What does 'Smooth White' mean in terms of finish?: Smooth White refers to the opaque white finish of the film, which offers a warm tonal character and a clean, classic appearance.
What is Evans Level 360 Technology?: Level 360 involves a specialized collar design that ensures the head fits level on the drum shell, facilitating easier tuning and better frequency response.
Is this head suitable for studio recording?: Yes, it is designed for both live and studio performance, offering expressive tonality and controlled mid-range movement.
What size drum does this head fit?: This specific model is designed to fit a bass drum with a 20-inch diameter.
How does the EQ3 compare to the EQ4?: The EQ3 is a resonant-specific head with an internal ring, whereas the EQ4 is often used as a batter head and features different overtone control properties.
Does this product include the drum shell?: No, the product consists only of the 20-inch drum head; the drum itself is not included.
What type of sound profile should I expect?: You should expect a warm tone with a pronounced low-end, reduced high-end crispness, and a punchy, controlled sustain.
Can I use this as a batter (striking) head?: While technically possible, the EQ3 Resonant is specifically engineered to be used on the front (resonant) side of the bass drum to control the overall sound and projection.