Gear article

Remo Ambassador Vintage Coated 12" Drum Head

The Remo Ambassador Vintage Coated 12" is a professional-grade drum head designed to provide a balanced mid-range tone with a distinctive soft feel. Combining a 7.5-mil and a 3-mil ply, it serves as a versatile option for drummers seeking a blend of classic sensitivity and modern durability.

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Overview and Design

The Remo Ambassador Vintage Coated 12" Drum Head is engineered to replicate the sonic characteristics of early drum head designs while utilizing modern synthetic materials. Unlike the standard single-ply Ambassador, the Vintage version employs a unique two-ply construction. It consists of one 7.5-mil ply and one 3-mil ply, totalling 10.5 mils. This specific configuration is designed to offer the durability associated with the Ambassador series while maintaining a soft, responsive feel under the stick.

Tonal Character and Performance

The primary sonic profile of the Ambassador Vintage Coated is focused on the mid-range. By drawing inspiration from other established Remo lines, this head achieves a specific hybrid sound. It retains the high-level sensitivity typically found in the Diplomat Coated series but adds the enhanced mid-range frequencies found in the Emperor Coated. This results in a drum head that provides tonal control without sacrificing the nuance required for ghost notes and intricate play.

Suitability and Versatility

Due to its balanced response, the Ambassador Vintage is marketed as one of Remo's most versatile offerings. It is particularly suited for musical environments where nuance and dynamic control are paramount, such as jazz, fusion, and studio recording. However, the increased durability provided by the two-ply design also makes it appropriate for general-purpose rock and pop applications where a warmer, 'vintage' sound is preferred over a bright, aggressive attack.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to the standard 10-mil single-ply Ambassador Coated, the Vintage version offers a softer feel and slightly more controlled overtones. Compared to the Emperor Coated, which uses two 7-mil plies, the Vintage Ambassador is thinner and more sensitive, making it easier to trigger at lower volumes. It occupies a unique middle ground in the Remo catalogue, providing more body than a Diplomat but more finesse than a standard heavy-weight double-ply head.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the ply construction of the Remo Ambassador Vintage Coated 12"?
It features a unique 2-ply construction consisting of one 7.5-mil ply and one 3-mil ply. This combination is designed to provide a soft feel and enhanced durability.
How does the sound of the Vintage Ambassador compare to the standard Ambassador?
The Vintage Coated version produces more focused mid-range tones and has a softer feel under the stick. It offers more tonal control and a slightly warmer character than the standard single-ply version.
What is the typical price for this drum head in the UK?
The typical price range for the Remo Ambassador Vintage Coated 12" is approximately £22.00. This makes it a mid-range investment for high-quality drum spares.
Which Remo series inspired the sensitivity of the Vintage Ambassador?
The sensitivity of the Ambassador Vintage is inspired by the Remo Diplomat Coated series. This allows for great response even when playing at lower dynamics.
Which Remo series inspired the mid-range of this drum head?
The mid-range frequencies of the Ambassador Vintage are inspired by the Emperor Coated series. This gives the head its characteristic warmth and body.
Is this drum head suitable for recording?
Yes, its balance of response and tonal control makes it ideal for studio situations where nuance is required. The focused mid-range helps in capturing a clean, vintage-style drum sound.
Does the coating affect the sound of the head?
The coated design contributes to the warm, vintage sound and helps to dampen high-frequency overtones. It also provides an ideal surface for brush playing.
How durable is the Ambassador Vintage compared to other heads?
The 2-ply construction (7.5-mil and 3-mil) provides higher durability than a standard single-ply head. It is designed to withstand regular play while maintaining its tonal integrity.
What size is this specific model?
This specific model is a 12-inch drum head, typically used for rack toms or small snare drums. Remo produces the Ambassador Vintage in various sizes for different drum types.
What kind of 'feel' does this head provide to the drummer?
It is specifically designed to provide a 'soft stick feel.' This under-stick sensation is a key part of the vintage playing experience it aims to replicate.
Can this head be used for live performances in loud genres?
While versatile, it is best suited for situations requiring nuance and tonal control. However, its 2-ply durability allows it to perform well in most musical settings including live rock or pop.
Is the Remo Ambassador Vintage Coated 12" a single-ply or double-ply head?
It is a double-ply (2-ply) drum head. It uses two plies of different thicknesses to achieve its specific sound and tactile response.