Gear article
Evans Hydraulic Red Drum Head & Snare Side Hazy 300 Pack 13"
The Evans Hydraulic Red Drum Head & Snare Side Hazy 300 Pack 13 is a professional-grade snare drum head combination designed for players seeking a matched, ready-to-use sonic profile. It pairs the high-durability Hydraulic Red batter head with the industry-standard Hazy 300 resonant head, specifically sized for 13-inch snare drums.

Overview
The Evans Hydraulic Red Drum Head & Snare Side Hazy 300 Pack is a curated bundle intended to simplify the process of selecting drum heads. By providing both the batter (top) and resonant (bottom) heads in a single package, Evans ensures that the two films work in tandem to produce a specific, controlled sound. This pack is specifically designed for 13" snare drums, a size frequently favoured for its crisp, high-pitch pop and compact footprint.
Design and Functionality
The batter head in this pack belongs to the Evans Hydraulic series, which is unique for its two-ply construction featuring a thin layer of oil between the films. This design is engineered to offer maximum durability and a distinct damping effect. The accompanying resonant head is the S13H30 Hazy 300, a thin, single-ply head that provides the necessary sensitivity for snare wire response. By combining these, Evans allows drummers to focus on their performance rather than the technical complexities of head matching.

Sonic Characteristics
The primary characteristic of the Hydraulic Red batter head is its 'fat', deep, and short sound, reminiscent of the early 1970s rock aesthetic. The oil layer effectively suppresses unwanted overtones and ringing, making it easier to tune even on drums with imperfections. The Hazy 300 resonant head balances this by offering a wide dynamic range and controlled sustain, ensuring the snare wires react accurately to every stroke.
Target Audience
This pack is ideally suited for drummers who require a 'rock-ready' sound immediately out of the box. It is particularly beneficial for players who may be uncertain about which resonant head to pair with a damped batter head. Because the Hydraulic series is notoriously easy to tune, it is an excellent choice for both beginners looking for a consistent sound and professionals who need a durable head that can withstand heavy hitting.
Market Context
Priced at approximately £43, the pack offers a convenient alternative to purchasing individual heads, such as the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side. While other Evans products focus on marching applications or different aesthetic styles, the Hydraulic Red pack is firmly rooted in the kit-drumming market. It serves as a comprehensive replacement solution compared to buying standalone components or generic single-ply alternatives.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is included in the Evans Hydraulic Red & Hazy 300 Pack?
- The pack includes one 13-inch Evans Hydraulic Red batter head and one 13-inch Evans Snare Side Hazy 300 resonant head. It does not include the drum shell, hoops, or hardware.
- What size snare drum is this pack compatible with?
- This specific pack is designed for snare drums with a 13-inch diameter. It will not fit standard 14-inch snares or smaller 10-12 inch side snares.
- What is the purpose of the oil layer in the Hydraulic head?
- The thin layer of oil between the two plies of the Hydraulic head acts as a natural dampener. It reduces unwanted overtones and shortens the sustain for a more controlled, 'fat' sound.
- How does the Hazy 300 resonant head affect the sound?
- The Hazy 300 is a versatile resonant head that provides a balanced response for the snare wires. It allows for high sensitivity and ensures the snare does not sound choked despite the heavy batter head.
- Is this drum head pack suitable for jazz?
- While it can be used for any genre, it is typically preferred for rock, metal, and funk due to its dampened, punchy character. Jazz drummers often prefer thinner, more resonant heads for greater sustain.
- Are the heads difficult to tune?
- No, Evans Hydraulic heads are known for being among the easiest heads to tune. The oil layer helps mask inconsistencies in drum shell bearing edges and reduces harmonic complexity.
- What is the typical price for this 13-inch pack?
- The typical retail price for this specific two-head pack is approximately £43. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
- Does the red colour affect the sound of the drum?
- The red tint is primarily aesthetic; however, the Hydraulic series construction itself provides a specific dampened sound. The colour makes it a popular choice for drummers who want a visually striking kit.
- Can I use the Hydraulic Red head on the bottom of the snare?
- No, the Hydraulic Red is a batter head meant for the top. The Hazy 300 included in the pack is the specific resonant head designed for the bottom to interact with the snare wires.
- Is this pack more durable than a single-ply head?
- Yes, because the Hydraulic batter head uses two plies of film, it is significantly more durable and resistant to denting than standard single-ply heads. This makes it ideal for heavy hitters.
- How does this compare to the Evans MS3 Marching head?
- The MS3 is designed specifically for marching snare drums which require much higher tension. The Hydraulic Red pack is intended for standard drum kit snares and offers a warmer, more dampened tone.
- Why should I buy a pack instead of individual heads?
- Buying the pack ensures that your batter and resonant heads are sonically matched by the manufacturer. It also simplifies the purchasing process for drummers unsure of which resonant head to pair with the Hydraulic series.
