What is the thickness of the Remo Ambassador Coated 16?

The head is constructed from a single ply of 10-mil film, which is the industry standard for medium-weight drum heads.

Can I use this head on a 16-inch snare drum?

Yes, if you have a 16-inch snare drum, this head will fit. The coating is particularly beneficial for snare drums as it allows for brush play.

What does the coating do to the sound?

The coating adds warmth to the tone and helps dampen high-frequency overtones, resulting in a more controlled sustain compared to clear heads.

Is the Remo Ambassador Coated 16 suitable for floor toms?

Yes, it is one of the most popular choices for 16-inch floor toms due to its open resonance and warm character.

How does this compare to a double-ply head?

A single-ply head like the Ambassador is more resonant and sensitive, whereas a double-ply head is more durable and has a deeper, more muffled sound.

Can this be used as a resonant head?

Yes, many drummers use the Ambassador Coated as a resonant head to achieve a warmer, darker sound from their drums.

Is this head suitable for jazz music?

It is widely considered an industry standard for jazz because of its sensitivity and the texture it provides for brush techniques.

What is the typical price for this drum head?

The typical price for the Remo Ambassador Coated 16-inch head is approximately EUR 25.

Will this head fit any 16-inch drum?

It is designed to fit standard 16-inch drum shells from most major manufacturers.

How durable is the 10-mil single-ply construction?

While it is high-quality, 10-mil single-ply heads are designed for sensitivity. They are durable for general play but may dent under extremely heavy hitting.

Does this head come with any accessories?

No, it is sold as a single drum head. Other items like 5A maple sticks or bass beaters must be purchased separately.

Is the attack of this head bright or dark?

The Remo Ambassador Coated 16 offers a bright attack that is balanced by the warmth of the coating.

Gear article

Remo Ambassador Coated 16 Drum Head

The Remo Ambassador Coated 16 is a professional-grade 16-inch drum head constructed from a single ply of 10-mil coated film. It is industry-recognised for providing a balance of warm, open tones with a bright attack and controlled sustain.

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Overview

The Remo Ambassador Coated 16 Drum Head is a staple component in the world of percussion, specifically designed for 16-inch drums such as floor toms or large snare drums. As part of the Ambassador series, it serves as a benchmark for drum head performance, offering a versatile profile that suits various musical genres. It is manufactured using a single layer of 10-mil Mylar film, which is treated with a specialized coating to influence the vibration and tonal output of the drum.

Design and Construction

The construction of the Ambassador Coated 16 features a single ply of 10-mil film. This specific thickness is chosen to provide a high level of sensitivity and resonance. The 'Coated' designation refers to the white texture applied to the surface of the film. This coating serves two primary purposes: it adds a degree of warmth to the overall sound and provides the necessary friction for brush playing, which is not possible on smooth, clear heads.

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Sound Character

The sonic profile of the Remo Ambassador Coated 16 is defined by a bright attack followed by warm, open mid-range tones. Because it is a single-ply head, it allows for a high degree of sustain and resonance, giving the drum a 'lively' feel. However, the coating helps to control some of the harsher overtones that are typically present in clear heads, resulting in a more focused and controlled sustain that blends well in both live and studio environments.

Applications and Versatility

This drum head is highly versatile and can be used as either a batter (top) head or a resonant (bottom) head. When used as a batter head on a 16-inch floor tom, it provides a classic, resonant 'thump' with plenty of character. In a jazz context, the coating is essential for brush work. While it is robust enough for general use, heavy hitters may find it lacks the durability of double-ply alternatives, making it better suited for players who prioritise nuance and dynamic range.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to clear single-ply heads, the Ambassador Coated offers a warmer, more 'vintage' sound with slightly less high-end zing. When compared to double-ply heads (such as the Remo Emperor), the Ambassador is more resonant and sensitive but has less durability and a shorter decay. While Evans offers similar products like the MS3 marching heads, those are specifically engineered for high-tension marching snare applications, whereas the Ambassador is designed for standard drum kit use.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Remo Ambassador Coated 16?: The head is constructed from a single ply of 10-mil film, which is the industry standard for medium-weight drum heads.
Can I use this head on a 16-inch snare drum?: Yes, if you have a 16-inch snare drum, this head will fit. The coating is particularly beneficial for snare drums as it allows for brush play.
What does the coating do to the sound?: The coating adds warmth to the tone and helps dampen high-frequency overtones, resulting in a more controlled sustain compared to clear heads.
Is the Remo Ambassador Coated 16 suitable for floor toms?: Yes, it is one of the most popular choices for 16-inch floor toms due to its open resonance and warm character.
How does this compare to a double-ply head?: A single-ply head like the Ambassador is more resonant and sensitive, whereas a double-ply head is more durable and has a deeper, more muffled sound.
Can this be used as a resonant head?: Yes, many drummers use the Ambassador Coated as a resonant head to achieve a warmer, darker sound from their drums.
Is this head suitable for jazz music?: It is widely considered an industry standard for jazz because of its sensitivity and the texture it provides for brush techniques.
What is the typical price for this drum head?: The typical price for the Remo Ambassador Coated 16-inch head is approximately EUR 25.
Will this head fit any 16-inch drum?: It is designed to fit standard 16-inch drum shells from most major manufacturers.
How durable is the 10-mil single-ply construction?: While it is high-quality, 10-mil single-ply heads are designed for sensitivity. They are durable for general play but may dent under extremely heavy hitting.
Does this head come with any accessories?: No, it is sold as a single drum head. Other items like 5A maple sticks or bass beaters must be purchased separately.
Is the attack of this head bright or dark?: The Remo Ambassador Coated 16 offers a bright attack that is balanced by the warmth of the coating.