Gear article
Remo Ambassador Hazy Snare Side 14 Drum Head
The Remo Ambassador Hazy Snare Side 14 Drum Head is an industry-standard resonant head designed specifically for the bottom of a 14-inch snare drum. Constructed from a single ply of 3-mil film, it is engineered to provide an open, resonant tone with a balanced frequency response.

Overview
The Remo Ambassador Hazy Snare Side 14 Drum Head is widely considered the industry-leading resonant head for snare drums. Unlike batter heads, which are designed to be struck, this resonant (reso) head is placed on the bottom of the drum to interact with the snare wires. It is constructed from a single ply of 3-mil film, which is significantly thinner than standard batter heads to ensure maximum sensitivity and vibration transfer to the snare wires.
Technical Features
The primary technical feature of the Ambassador Hazy Snare Side is its 3-mil Mylar construction. This specific thickness provides a 'hazy' or translucent appearance and is thin enough to respond to the slightest stroke on the top head. The design provides a perfectly balanced frequency response across the entire spectrum, ensuring that the natural character of the snare drum is not masked by excessive frequencies.

Sound and Character
In terms of sonic performance, the Hazy Snare Side produces open, resonant tones. It is known for its versatility, offering a clear and crisp snare response that works in tandem with the drum's hardware. Because of its balanced profile, it does not bias towards overly bright or overly dark tones, making it suitable for a wide variety of shell materials, including wood, brass, and steel.
Target Audience and Comparison
This drum head is suited for all drummers, ranging from beginners to professionals, due to its reliable performance in both studio and live environments. While alternatives like the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side exist, those are often tailored for high-tension marching applications, whereas the Ambassador Hazy is the standard for drum kit snare drums. It is an essential component for any 14-inch snare drum setup.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary function of the Remo Ambassador Hazy Snare Side head?
- Its primary function is to serve as the resonant head on the bottom of a snare drum. It vibrates in response to the batter head being struck, which in turn causes the snare wires to react.
- Can I use this head as a batter head (the side you hit)?
- No, this head is only 3-mil thick and is designed specifically for the resonant side. Striking it with drumsticks would likely cause immediate damage or breakage.
- What does '3-mil' refer to in the construction?
- The term 'mil' is a unit of measurement equal to one-thousandth of an inch. A 3-mil film is very thin, allowing for high sensitivity and quick response to snare wire vibrations.
- What size snare drum does this head fit?
- This specific model is designed to fit a standard 14-inch diameter snare drum. It is compatible with virtually all 14-inch snare drums regardless of depth.
- How does the 'Hazy' finish affect the sound compared to a clear head?
- The Hazy finish provides a classic resonant look and helps produce a balanced frequency response. It is the industry standard for general-purpose snare applications.
- Is this head suitable for jazz drumming?
- Yes, its open and resonant tones make it ideal for jazz. The 3-mil thickness provides the sensitivity required for ghost notes and intricate brush work.
- Can this head be used for rock and metal music?
- Yes, it is highly versatile and used across all genres. In heavier styles, it provides the necessary snap and crispness to help the snare cut through a loud mix.
- How often should I replace my resonant snare head?
- While they do not wear out as fast as batter heads, resonant heads should be replaced when they lose their elasticity. Many professionals change them every second or third batter head change to maintain tone.
- Does this head come with snare wires included?
- No, this is a single drum head. Snare wires and other hardware must be purchased separately if they are needed for your drum.
- How does the Remo Ambassador Hazy compare to the Evans MS3?
- The Ambassador Hazy is designed for standard drum kit snares with an open tone. The Evans MS3 is a marching snare head, which is generally more focused and designed for higher tensions.
- What is the typical price for this drum head in the UK?
- The Remo Ambassador Hazy Snare Side 14 Drum Head typically retails for approximately £20.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
- Is a 1-ply design durable enough for the bottom of a drum?
- Yes, because the resonant head is not struck directly, the 1-ply 3-mil construction is the standard for durability in this application. It is designed to withstand the tension of snare wires without tearing.
