Gear article

Remo Emperor Colortone Red 12" Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Colortone Red 12" Drum Head is a dual-ply drumhead designed to provide a balance of durability and projection with a distinct visual aesthetic. It utilises Skyndeep Imaging Technology to infuse vibrant red pigment directly into the film, ensuring the colour remains intact during play. Part of Remo's broader Colortone series, this head is a standard choice for drummers seeking both modern styling and the classic Emperor sound profile.

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Overview and Aesthetics

The Remo Emperor Colortone series introduces a visual dimension to drum performance without compromising the structural integrity of the head. The 12-inch Red variant provides a striking tinted appearance that allows the shell's interior to remain visible while changing the overall look of the kit. Unlike traditional painted or coated heads, the Colortone series aims for a sleek, translucent finish that demands attention under stage lighting.

Design and Skyndeep Technology

At the core of the Colortone series is Remo's Skyndeep Imaging Technology. This process embeds the red pigment directly into the structure of the film. The primary benefits of this manufacturing method include:

  • Durability: The colour will not chip, flake, or wear away over time.
  • Cleanliness: There is no risk of colour transferring onto drumsticks or surrounding gear.
  • Consistency: The film maintains its physical properties, ensuring the vibration of the plies remains uniform across the surface.

Construction and Sonic Profile

This drumhead is constructed using two plies of 7-mil clear film, following the standard specifications of the legendary Remo Emperor line. The dual-ply design offers powerful projection and a robust tone with more controlled overtones compared to single-ply alternatives. It provides increased durability, making it suitable for heavier hitters or genres that require a focused, punchy sound with a defined attack.

Applications and Compatibility

The 12-inch size is most commonly utilised for rack toms in standard drum configurations. It is designed to be versatile across various genres, including rock, pop, and R&B. Because it is a standard 12-inch head, it is compatible with all major drum manufacturers' shells of that diameter. It suits drummers who want to customise their kit's appearance to match their hardware, shell finish, or stage theme.

Market Positioning

Positioned within the 'Parts & Spares' category, the Emperor Colortone sits at a typical price point of approximately £23. While traditional clear or coated Emperors are standard industry staples, the Colortone variant offers a premium aesthetic upgrade for a relatively small increase in investment. It competes alongside other specialised heads like the Evans MS3 series, though the Colortone is specifically geared toward kit customisation.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone Red?
The drumhead is constructed with two plies of 7-mil clear film. This dual-ply design is standard for the Emperor range, providing durability and a focused tone.
Will the red colour rub off on my drumsticks?
No, the colour will not transfer to your sticks. The Skyndeep Imaging Technology embeds the pigment into the film structure rather than applying it as a surface coating.
How does Skyndeep Imaging Technology work?
It is a proprietary Remo process that infuses colour directly into the drumhead film. This ensures the aesthetic remains permanent and does not chip or flake like traditional paints.
What size is this specific drumhead?
This specific model is a 12-inch drumhead. It is designed to fit standard 12-inch drum shells, typically used for rack toms.
Is the Colortone Red head transparent or opaque?
The head features a tinted look using clear film. It is translucent, allowing for a vibrant red appearance while still letting light pass through the plies.
What kind of sound should I expect from this head?
You can expect powerful projection and a superb tone with controlled overtones. The 2-ply construction provides a punchy attack and increased durability compared to 1-ply heads.
Does the colour affect the sound quality of the drumhead?
Remo designed the Colortone series to sound identical to their standard Emperor Clear heads. The Skyndeep process is engineered to have no negative impact on the film's sonic properties.
Are other colours available in the Colortone range?
Yes, Remo produces the Colortone drumheads in a wide variety of colours and styles. This allows drummers to choose the specific hue that best matches their drum kit.
Can I use this head on a snare drum?
While primarily used for toms, it can be used on a 12-inch snare drum if you prefer a 2-ply tom-style head. However, it is not a dedicated snare-side (resonant) head.
How durable is the Emperor Colortone compared to other heads?
The 2-ply 7-mil construction makes it one of the more durable options available for toms. It is designed to withstand heavy playing without losing its tension or tonal character quickly.
What is the typical price for this 12-inch head?
The typical price for the Remo Emperor Colortone Red 12-inch drumhead is approximately £23.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Does the red tint flake off after heavy use?
No, the red tint will not chip or flake off. Because the colour is integrated into the film itself via Skyndeep technology, it remains permanent for the life of the head.