Gear article
Evans Genera Resonant Drum Head (10")
The Evans Genera Resonant is a professional-grade 10-inch single-ply drum head specifically engineered for the bottom (resonant) side of a tom-tom. It is designed to maximise sustain and projection, featuring a tonal profile that emphasises strong upper-midrange frequencies.
See live pricesOverview
The Evans Genera Resonant 10" drum head is a critical component for drummers seeking to refine the natural resonance of their small rack toms. As a dedicated resonant head, its primary role is to react to the air moved by the batter head, vibrating to provide the drum's sustain and tonal character. The Genera Resonant is widely recognised for its ability to produce a full-bodied sound with a notable emphasis on upper-midrange frequencies, which aids in cutting through a musical mix.
Design and Construction
This head is constructed from a single ply of high-quality film. Unlike batter heads which may feature multiple plies or dampening rings, the Genera Resonant is designed for unrestricted movement. This allows the 10" shell to vibrate freely, resulting in a long, lush sustain that captures the full frequency spectrum of the wood or metal drum shell.
Sound Character and Projection
The sonic signature of the Evans Genera Resonant is characterised by its brightness and clarity. By enhancing the upper mids, the head ensures that the drum's fundamental pitch remains distinct even at high stage volumes. It provides a 'wide-open' sound that is free from the stifled qualities sometimes found in heavier resonant options, making it a versatile choice for various acoustic environments.
Application and Pairing
While compatible with various configurations, this head is particularly effective when paired with a 2-ply batter head. The combination of a durable, controlled top head and the thin, sensitive Genera Resonant creates a balanced drum sound with a punchy attack and a warm, lingering tail. It is suitable for a wide variety of genres, from jazz to rock, where drum resonance is a desired musical element.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the Evans catalogue, the Genera Resonant serves as a standard-bearer for sustain. Compared to specialized resonant heads like the MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side (which is 14" and designed for high-tension marching applications), the 10" Genera is focused on kit-drum musicality. Unlike dampened resonant heads that shorten the note, the Genera Resonant focuses on maximum vibration and projection.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary function of the Evans Genera Resonant 10" head?
- It is designed specifically for the resonant (bottom) side of a 10-inch tom. Its purpose is to vibrate in response to the batter head to provide sustain and tone.
- Can I use this as a batter (top) head?
- While physically possible, it is not recommended. It is a thin, single-ply head optimized for resonance rather than impact, and it may lack the durability required for a striking surface.
- How does this head affect the sustain of a drum?
- The Genera Resonant is designed to deliver a long and full sustain. Its single-ply construction allows for maximum vibration compared to thicker or dampened heads.
- Which frequency range does this head emphasize?
- It produces strong upper-midrange frequencies. This helps the drum sound project more effectively and adds clarity to the overall tone.
- Is this head suitable for rock music?
- Yes, it is versatile enough for a wide variety of musical genres. Its projection qualities make it suitable for rock, while its full sustain is beneficial for jazz and fusion.
- What is the typical price for this 10-inch head?
- The typical price range for the Evans Genera Resonant 10" drum head is approximately £21.00.
- What batter head works best with the Genera Resonant?
- Evans suggests it is ideal for enhancing tone when combined with a 2-ply batter head. This pairing balances a controlled attack with a full, resonant decay.
- Does this head include any built-in muffling?
- No, the Genera Resonant is designed for an open sound with full sustain. It does not feature the internal dampening rings found on some other Evans series.
- Is the finish of the Genera Resonant clear or coated?
- This specific model is a clear drum head. Clear heads generally provide a brighter attack and more transparency in sound compared to coated alternatives.
- Will this head fit a 10-inch snare drum?
- It will fit any 10-inch diameter drum hoop. However, it is designed for toms; for a snare drum, a specific 'snare side' head is usually preferred to accommodate snare wires.
- How does it compare to the Evans MS3 14" head?
- The MS3 is a 14-inch marching snare side head, whereas this is a 10-inch tom resonant head. They serve different purposes and fit different sizes of drums.
- How does this head help with drum projection?
- By boosting the upper mids, the head helps the sound of the drum cut through other instruments. This ensures the drum's tone is audible even in loud stage environments.
