Gear article

Remo Emperor Coated 10" Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Coated 10" is a dual-ply drum head designed for toms and snare drums, constructed from two layers of 7-mil coated film. It is engineered to provide a balance of warmth, durability, and projection, featuring a 3-mil inlay ring for enhanced tonal control. This head is widely regarded for its versatility in various musical settings where a controlled yet open sound is required.

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Construction and Design

The Remo Emperor Coated 10" drum head is built using two plies of 7-mil coated film. This multi-ply construction is specifically designed to offer increased durability compared to single-ply alternatives. A key technical feature is the inclusion of a 3-mil inlay ring, which serves to dampen unwanted overtones and provide a more focused fundamental pitch. The coated surface adds a layer of texture that contributes to the head's specific tonal characteristics.

Sonic Characteristics

This drum head is noted for producing warm, open tones. The combination of the two 7-mil plies and the coating results in a sound that is richer and darker than clear heads. While it maintains a degree of openness, the 3-mil inlay ring assists in projection and ensures the resonance remains controlled. The response is balanced, providing enough sensitivity for subtle playing while retaining the strength needed for heavier hitting.

Applications and Versatility

Due to its 10-inch diameter, this head is primarily intended for use on rack toms, though the Emperor series is also commonly used for snare drums. Its design makes it suitable for a variety of genres where a mix of durability and tonal warmth is desired. The Emperor Coated series is available in a wide range of sizes, allowing drummers to maintain a consistent sonic profile across their entire drum kit setup.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to single-ply heads like the Remo Ambassador, the Emperor Coated offers significantly more durability and a shorter sustain with more focused lows. In the context of other brands, it competes with products like the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side head, though the Emperor is focused on traditional kit performance rather than marching applications. Unlike thinner heads, the dual-ply 7-mil construction provides a 'meatier' feel and sound that holds up better under consistent use.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Remo Emperor Coated head?
The head is constructed from two plies of 7-mil coated film, totaling 14 mils of thickness, plus a 3-mil inlay ring.
What size is this specific drum head?
This specific model is designed to fit drums with a 10-inch diameter.
Does this head have an inlay ring?
Yes, it features a 3-mil inlay ring for tom and snare heads to provide better tonal control.
What kind of sound profile does the coating provide?
The coating offers warm, open tones and helps to dampen some of the high-end brightness found in clear heads.
Is the Remo Emperor Coated 10" durable?
Yes, its 2-ply design offers increased durability and longevity compared to standard single-ply heads.
What is the typical price for this drum head?
The typical price range for this 10-inch head is approximately £18.
Can this head be used on a snare drum?
Yes, while 10-inch heads are common for toms, the Emperor Coated design is also suitable for small-diameter snare drums.
How does this compare to a clear Emperor head?
The coated version provides a warmer tone and more controlled overtones compared to the brighter, more aggressive attack of the clear version.
Is this head suitable for recording?
Yes, the balance of response and tonal control provided by the 2-ply construction makes it a popular choice for studio environments.
What is the benefit of a 2-ply drum head?
2-ply heads offer a deeper fundamental pitch, more durability, and a shorter sustain than single-ply heads.
Does the Remo Emperor Coated 10" offer good projection?
Yes, the design is intended to offer increased projection alongside its warm tonal qualities.
What manufacturer produces this drum head?
This drum head is manufactured by Remo, a leading brand in drum head technology.