Gear article

Remo Emperor Colortone Green 16" Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Colortone Green 16" Drum Head is a dual-ply batter head designed for toms, featuring a vibrant green aesthetic through Remo's proprietary Colortone technology. It combines the durability and focused low-end characteristics of the standard Emperor series with a 3-mil inlay ring to manage overtones. This head is intended for drummers seeking a balance of high-impact attack and visual customisation.

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Overview

The Remo Emperor Colortone Green 16" Drum Head represents an evolution of the industry-standard Emperor series, integrating visual customisation without compromising the sonic integrity of the original design. Built with two plies of 7-mil clear film, the Colortone series utilizes a specific tinting process that maintains transparency while offering a bold green aesthetic. This specific 16-inch model is typically used for floor toms, providing the necessary surface area and tension to produce deep, resonant tones.

Construction and Technology

The head is manufactured using two layers of 7-mil Mylar film, a configuration known for its durability and projection. A key feature of the Emperor Colortone design is the inclusion of a 3-mil inlay ring. This internal ring is strategically placed to reduce unwanted high-frequency overtones and 'ring', resulting in a more controlled and focused sound. The Colortone technology ensures that the green pigment is evenly distributed throughout the film, preventing the flaking or chipping often associated with painted or coated heads.

Tonal Character and Performance

In terms of sound, the Emperor Colortone Green provides a distinct emphasis on mid and low-end frequencies. The double-ply construction naturally dampens higher frequencies, while the added inlay ring further refines the decay. The result is a drum head with:

  • Increased Attack: The thickness of the plies provides a sharp, percussive initial strike.
  • Focused Sustain: The inlay ring shortens the resonance to prevent muddying the mix.
  • Durability: The 14-mil total thickness (excluding the inlay) is suited for heavy hitters and consistent use.

Application and Comparison

This drum head is ideal for drummers playing genres that require a 'fat' tom sound, such as rock, pop, or metal. While it performs similarly to a standard Clear Emperor, the Colortone version is specifically chosen for stage presence and kit coordination. Compared to thinner single-ply heads, the Emperor Colortone offers significantly more control and a darker timbre. For those seeking even more dampening, it may be compared to Remo's Pinstripe series, though the Emperor maintains a more open feel.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone Green?
The drum head is constructed from two plies of 7-mil high-quality film. This 14-mil total thickness provides increased durability and a focused sound profile.
Does the green colour affect the sound quality?
Remo's Colortone technology is designed to provide a new level of customisation while providing the same high-level classic performance as the standard Emperor series. The tinting process is engineered to maintain tonal consistency.
What size is this specific drum head?
This specific model is 16 inches in diameter. It is typically used for floor toms or large rack toms.
What type of tones does this head produce?
The Emperor Colortone Green provides focused mid and low-end tones. It is designed to offer a perfect balance of response and tonal control.
How does the head control overtones?
The head features a 3-mil inlay ring. This internal component helps to reduce unwanted overtones, resulting in a more focused and controlled decay.
Is this head suitable for heavy hitters?
Yes, the 2-ply construction of 7-mil film provides increased durability. This makes it a high-quality choice for drummers who require a head that can withstand aggressive playing.
Can I get this head in other colours?
Yes, the Remo Emperor Colortone series is available in a variety of colours. This allows drummers to select the right heads to match their specific drum kit setup.
What is the typical price for the 16" version?
The typical price range for the Remo Emperor Colortone Green 16" Drum Head is approximately £29. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
How does the attack of this head compare to others?
This drum head provides increased attack due to its dual-ply 7-mil construction. It offers a sharper initial strike compared to thinner single-ply heads.
Is the design clear or opaque?
The drum head features a high-quality clear design that has been combined with the Colortone green tint. It maintains transparency while providing a vibrant green hue.
What is the primary benefit of the Emperor Colortone series?
The primary benefit is the combination of classic Emperor performance with aesthetic customisation. It allows drummers to achieve a specific look without sacrificing professional sound standards.
Does this head come with any other drum accessories?
No, this product is a single 16-inch drum head. Accessories like Gear4Music 5A Wood Tip Maple Drumsticks or Tama Accu-Strike beaters must be purchased separately.