Gear article

Remo Ambassador Coated Drum Head

The Remo Ambassador Coated is a industry-standard drum head constructed from a single ply of 10-mil Mylar film. Known for its versatile open tones and bright attack, it remains one of the most widely used drum heads in the world for both studio and live applications.

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Overview

The Remo Ambassador Coated series is a cornerstone of the Remo product catalogue, serving as a benchmark for drum head performance across various musical genres. Featuring a single layer of 10-mil coated film, these heads are engineered to provide a balanced frequency response. They are available in a diverse range of sizes, ensuring compatibility with virtually any standard drum kit configuration.

Construction and Design

The primary design element of the Ambassador Coated is its single ply of 10-mil film. This medium-weight construction is thin enough to allow for significant resonance while being robust enough for standard playing styles. The coating applied to the surface serves two purposes: it adds a degree of warmth to the tone and provides the necessary texture for brush playing, a technique frequently used in jazz and acoustic settings.

Sonic Characteristics

The Ambassador Coated is distinguished by its 'warm open tones.' While clear heads tend to have more pronounced high frequencies, the coating on this model offers a controlled sustain and a bright attack that does not become harsh. The single-ply nature ensures a high level of sensitivity, allowing the drum to respond accurately to subtle dynamic changes in the drummer's performance.

Target Audience

Due to its versatility, the Ambassador Coated suits a wide range of drummers. It is particularly favoured by those who require a head that can transition between high-volume rock environments and sensitive jazz setups. It is an ideal choice for drummers seeking a traditional 'open' sound that retains clarity and harmonic richness.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to double-ply heads, such as the Remo Emperor, the Ambassador Coated offers more sustain and a quicker response. While double-ply heads provide more durability and a 'thicker' sound, the Ambassador is preferred for its resonance. When compared to clear single-ply heads, the coated version provides a warmer, more focused sound with slightly reduced overtones.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Remo Ambassador Coated head?
The Remo Ambassador Coated drum head is constructed from a single ply of 10-mil film. This thickness is considered a medium weight, providing a balance between durability and resonance.
What kind of sound profile does the coated finish provide?
The coated finish offers warm, open tones with a bright attack. It helps to slightly control sustain and overtones compared to a clear head, resulting in a more focused sound.
Is the Remo Ambassador Coated suitable for snare drums?
Yes, it is one of the most popular choices for a snare drum batter head. Its 10-mil construction provides excellent sensitivity and the coated surface is ideal for both stick and brush work.
Can these heads be used on tom-toms?
Absolutely. The Ambassador Coated is widely used on toms to achieve a resonant, open sound with a classic character. They are available in various sizes to fit standard tom dimensions.
How does this head handle brush playing?
The textured coating on the Ambassador head is specifically designed to interact with brushes. It provides the necessary friction to produce the characteristic 'swish' sound required in jazz and acoustic music.
What is the typical price range for this drum head?
The typical price for this specific drum head is approximately GBP 27. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and the specific diameter of the head required.
Does this head come in different sizes?
Yes, Remo produces the Ambassador Coated in a wide range of sizes. This allows drummers to maintain a consistent tonal character across their entire drum kit setup.
How does the Ambassador compare to the Remo Emperor?
The Ambassador is a single-ply 10-mil head, whereas the Emperor is a double-ply 7-mil head. The Ambassador offers more resonance and brightness, while the Emperor provides more durability and a deeper, more controlled tone.
Is this drum head durable enough for heavy metal?
While it can be used for any genre, heavy hitters may find that single-ply heads like the Ambassador wear out faster than double-ply alternatives. However, many metal drummers still use them for their bright attack.
What is the sustain like on a Remo Ambassador Coated?
It features a 'controlled sustain.' Because it is a single-ply head, it rings more than a muffled or double-ply head, but the coating helps to dampen the most extreme high-frequency overtones.
Can I use this as a resonant head?
While typically used as a batter (top) head, the Ambassador Coated can be used as a resonant (bottom) head to achieve a warmer, darker sound with less sustain than a clear resonant head.
What makes the '10-mil' film significant?
The 10-mil thickness is the industry standard for single-ply heads. It provides enough mass to project sound effectively while remaining thin enough to vibrate freely for a full, open tone.