Gear article
Remo Ambassador SMT Coated Bass Drumhead
The Remo Ambassador SMT Coated is a pre-muffled bass drumhead designed with Sub Muffl Technology to provide controlled high and mid frequencies with enhanced low-end response. Constructed from a single ply of 10-mil coated film, it features an externally mounted dampening profile and free-floating acoustic foam to maintain shell resonance while adding punch.
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The Remo Ambassador SMT Coated Bass Drumhead represents an evolution of the industry-standard Ambassador series, specifically tailored for bass drum applications where controlled resonance is required. This 18-inch model is engineered to provide a balanced tonal spectrum, making it suitable for smaller bass drums often found in jazz kits or compact contemporary setups.
By incorporating Sub Muffl Technology, Remo has addressed the common need for internal dampening without sacrificing the natural vibration of the drum shell. The head is built around a durable 10-mil single-ply construction, finished with a classic white coating that adds warmth and slightly rounds off the initial attack.
Sub Muffl Technology
The defining feature of this drumhead is the Sub Muffl Technology (SMT). Unlike traditional muffling methods that may involve placing pillows or blankets inside the drum—which can stifle shell vibration—the SMT system utilizes an externally mounted dampening profile.
This profile houses a free-floating acoustic foam. The 'free-floating' nature of the foam is critical; it allows the drumhead to vibrate sufficiently to activate the shell's character while simultaneously suppressing unwanted overtones. This results in an increase in subsonic low frequencies and a more pronounced attack.
Sound Character and Tuning
The Ambassador SMT Coated is known for its versatility across a broad range of tensions. Its sound profile is characterized by:
- Low Frequencies: Powerful and deep, enhanced by the SMT foam.
- Mid and High Frequencies: Controlled and focused, reducing the 'ping' or 'basketball' sound often associated with unmuffled small bass drums.
- Attack: Enhanced clarity and punch, allowing the drum to cut through a mix without becoming harsh.
Due to its single-ply construction, the head remains sensitive and musical, offering a wide tuning range that can accommodate high-tension jazz bop tunings or lower-tension contemporary 'thud' sounds.
Comparison to Alternatives
When compared to other premium drumheads, the Ambassador SMT occupies a middle ground between fully open heads and heavily dampened models.
- Vs. EVANS 56 Calftone 18": The Calftone provides a vintage aesthetic and a warmer, more 'calfskin-like' tone, whereas the Ambassador SMT offers a more modern, controlled low-end via its foam system.
- Vs. Remo Silentstroke: Unlike the Silentstroke, which is designed for low-volume practice, the SMT is a full-volume performance head.
- Vs. Standard Ambassador Coated: The SMT eliminates the need for external stick-on dampeners or internal pillows, providing a more integrated and consistent sound profile straight out of the box.
Related gear
£50.68 ($64)EVANS
Evans 56 Calftone 18" EQ4 Bass Drum Head
£79.99 ($102)EVANS
Evans EQ3 Resonant Smooth White Bass Drum Head No Port 20"
£62.97 ($80)EVANS
Evans 56 Calftone 26" Bass Drum Head
£32.99 ($42)Attack Drumheads
Attack 24" ProFlex1 1Ply No Overtone Clear Bass Drum Head
£99.99 ($127)Eden Amplification
Eden Atlas Mini Bass Amplifier Head
£35.48 ($45)Remo
Remo Silentstroke 16 Bass Drum Head
£50.00 ($64)DW Drums
DW AA Coated Bass Drum Head 22
£59.00 ($75)DW Drums
DW Bass Drum Head Coated Clear 24"
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary material used in the Ambassador SMT Coated?
- The drumhead is constructed from a single ply of 10-mil coated film, providing a balance of durability and resonance.
- What does SMT stand for?
- SMT stands for Sub Muffl Technology, which refers to the specific dampening system integrated into the head.
- How does the dampening system work?
- It uses an externally mounted profile that contains free-floating acoustic foam to dampen high frequencies without choking the drum.
- Is this drumhead suitable for jazz music?
- Yes, its 18-inch size and controlled resonance make it an excellent choice for jazz drummers seeking a musical but focused bass drum sound.
- Can the Ambassador SMT be used for contemporary music styles?
- Absolutely. The enhanced attack and subsonic lows make it versatile enough for pop, rock, and other contemporary genres.
- What is the benefit of a coated finish on a bass drumhead?
- The coating adds warmth to the tone and slightly dampens higher-order harmonics compared to a clear film head.
- Does this head require internal pillows for muffling?
- Generally, no. The Sub Muffl Technology is designed to provide sufficient dampening, allowing the shell to retain its full sound characteristics.
- What size is this specific model?
- This specific model is designed for 18-inch diameter bass drums.
- How does it affect the low-end of the drum?
- The SMT design is specifically engineered to accentuate powerful low tones and subsonic frequencies.
- Is the acoustic foam fixed or moving?
- The foam is described as 'free-floating' within the external profile, which helps maintain the musicality of the head.
- How does it compare to the EVANS EQ3 series?
- While the EQ3 (like the 20-inch Resonant version) uses internal rings, the Remo SMT uses an external profile and foam for a different feel and resonance profile.
- What is the typical price for the Remo Ambassador SMT 18"?
- The typical price for this specific 18-inch bass drumhead is approximately £82.