Gear article

Remo Emperor Colortone Orange 15" Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Colortone 15" Orange is a professional-grade, dual-ply drum head designed to offer a balance of durability, visual customisation, and tonal control. It features Remo's proprietary Colortone technology, which integrates vibrant orange pigment into a clear film without compromising the sonic characteristics of the standard Emperor series.

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Overview

The Remo Emperor Colortone 15" Orange Drum Head represents an evolution in Remo's product line, merging the industry-standard durability of the Emperor series with aesthetic customisation. This 15-inch head is constructed using two plies of 7-mil clear film. The Colortone technology ensures the orange tint is uniform and visually striking while maintaining the physical properties of the film. It is designed to provide a focused sound profile, particularly suited for drummers seeking a blend of projection and overtone management.

Construction and Technology

This drum head is built with a 2-ply 7-mil film architecture, which is a hallmark of the Emperor series. A critical design feature is the inclusion of a 3-mil inlay ring. This internal ring is engineered to reduce unwanted overtones, resulting in a more controlled and articulate sound. The Colortone process itself allows for a vibrant orange appearance that does not flake or peel like traditional surface coatings, ensuring the head remains visually consistent throughout its lifespan.

Sound Character

Sonically, the Remo Emperor Colortone Orange is characterised by its focused mid and low-end frequencies. Because of its dual-ply construction, it offers increased attack compared to single-ply alternatives. The 3-mil inlay ring further refines the sound by dampening high-frequency ring, allowing for a punchy, warm tone that excels in high-volume settings. The 15-inch diameter provides a deeper fundamental pitch, making it an ideal choice for larger rack toms or floor toms.

Application and Suitability

This head is particularly suited for drummers who require both durability and a specific aesthetic for their kit. Its robust construction makes it appropriate for heavy-hitting genres such as rock, pop, and metal. The 15-inch sizing is specific to larger drum shells, offering a perfect balance of response and tonal control for players who want to stand out visually on stage without sacrificing the classic Remo sound.

Market Position and Alternatives

Positioned at a price point of approximately £27, the Colortone series sits in the premium segment of the replacement drum head market. While other manufacturers like Evans offer specialised heads such as the MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side for specific utility, the Remo Emperor Colortone is designed for general kit use. It provides a unique visual alternative to standard clear or coated heads, allowing for kit customisation that was previously only achievable through stickers or custom printing.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone 15" Orange?
The drum head is constructed from two plies of 7-mil clear film. This dual-ply design is intended to provide maximum durability and a focused attack.
How does the orange colour affect the sound of the drum head?
Remo uses Colortone technology to ensure the orange tint does not alter the sonic properties. It provides the same high-quality sound as a standard clear Emperor head.
Does this drum head include any overtone control?
Yes, it features a 3-mil inlay ring. This ring is specifically designed to reduce high-frequency overtones and focus the drum's fundamental pitch.
What size drum is this head compatible with?
This specific model is a 15-inch head. It is designed to fit 15-inch diameter drum shells, which are commonly used for floor toms or large rack toms.
What frequency ranges does this head emphasise?
The Remo Emperor Colortone Orange provides focused mid and low-end tones. This results in a warm, punchy sound suitable for various musical styles.
Is the Colortone series available in other colours?
Yes, the Colortone series is available in a variety of colours. This allows drummers to customise the look of their setup to match their personal preference or kit finish.
How durable is this drum head compared to single-ply heads?
Because it uses two plies of 7-mil film, it is significantly more durable than standard single-ply heads. It is built to withstand heavier playing styles over a longer period.
What is the typical price for the Remo Emperor Colortone 15" Orange?
The typical price for this drum head is approximately £27. This reflects its position as a high-quality, specialised replacement part.
Can this head be used for marching drums?
While it is a durable 2-ply head, it is primarily designed for drum kit toms. For specific marching applications, heads like the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side may be more appropriate.
Does the orange finish wear off over time?
The Colortone technology integrates the colour into the film itself. Unlike surface-coated heads, the colour is designed to remain vibrant without flaking off during play.
What kind of attack does this drum head provide?
The head provides an increased attack due to its dual-ply 7-mil construction. This makes it easier for the drum sound to cut through a dense musical mix.
Is this head suitable for recording?
Yes, the Remo Emperor Colortone is excellent for recording. The combination of focused low-end and controlled overtones makes it easier to capture a clean, professional drum sound.