Gear article
Remo Emperor Colortone Blue 15" Drum Head
The Remo Emperor Colortone Blue 15" Drum Head is a dual-ply drum skin designed to provide a balance of durability, focused low-end resonance, and custom aesthetics. Utilizing Remo's proprietary Colortone technology, this head retains the performance characteristics of the industry-standard Emperor series while introducing a vibrant blue transparency.
See live pricesOverview
The Remo Emperor Colortone 15" Blue Drum Head represents a fusion of the established Emperor series architecture with modern aesthetic customisation. It is designed specifically for drummers seeking both visual impact and the controlled, warm sonic profile associated with multi-ply heads. This 15-inch variant is suitable for large rack toms, floor toms, or specialty snare drums that accommodate this diameter.
Construction and Technology
The head is constructed from two plies of 7-mil clear film. The Colortone process integrates the blue hue into the film itself, ensuring the colour does not flake or peel like topical coatings. To further refine the sound, Remo incorporates a 3-mil inlay ring. This specific combination of materials is engineered to reduce unwanted overtones, resulting in a more focused and manageable sound profile compared to single-ply or non-inlayed alternatives.
Sonic Characteristics
Sonically, the Emperor Colortone Blue provides a distinct emphasis on mid-range and low-end frequencies. The dual-ply design naturally offers a shorter sustain and a more pronounced 'attack' than thinner heads. The 3-mil inlay ring serves as a dampening agent, tightening the drum's decay and providing a balance of response and tonal control that is highly desirable in both studio and live environments.
Suitability and Comparison
This drum head is particularly suited for drummers who require high durability and a 'pre-EQ'd' sound with minimal ringing. While single-ply heads like the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side (14") are built for specific resonance needs in smaller diameters, the 15" Emperor Colortone is built for heavy hitters and those seeking a deeper, punchier tone. Its 15-inch size makes it a specific fit for larger shells, contrasting with standard 14-inch snare setups.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone Blue 15"?
- It features two plies of 7-mil film. It also includes a 3-mil inlay ring to help control overtones.
- Does the blue colour affect the sound of the drum head?
- The Colortone series is designed to provide the same high-level performance as the classic clear Emperor heads. The tinting process allows for customisation without compromising the tonal standards Remo is known for.
- What size drum is this head compatible with?
- This specific model is 15 inches in diameter. It is intended for use with 15-inch toms or snare drums.
- What are the primary tonal characteristics of this head?
- It provides focused mid and low-end tones. Users can expect increased attack and a significant reduction in unwanted overtones.
- Is this drum head durable enough for heavy playing?
- Yes, the dual 7-mil ply construction offers high durability. It is built to withstand more aggressive playing styles compared to thinner single-ply heads.
- What is the purpose of the 3-mil inlay ring?
- The inlay ring is designed to reduce overtones. This results in a more focused sound and better tonal control.
- How does this compare to a standard clear Emperor head?
- It offers the same classic leading product quality but adds Colortone technology. This provides a new level of visual customisation for the drummer's setup.
- Can this head be used on a snare drum?
- Yes, provided the snare drum is 15 inches in diameter. It is often used to achieve a fat, punchy snare sound with controlled ring.
- Is the blue colour a coating that will chip off?
- No, the Colortone technology is integrated into the high-quality clear design. It is designed to be a durable visual feature of the drum head.
- What is the typical price for this 15-inch head?
- The typical price range for this model is approximately £27. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
- Does Remo offer other colours in this series?
- Yes, the Remo Emperor Colortone heads are available in a variety of colours and sizes. This allows drummers to select the right aesthetic for their specific setup.
- How does the attack of this head compare to others?
- The Emperor Colortone provides increased attack due to its 2-ply construction. This makes it suitable for music styles where drum definition is important.
