What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone Smoke?

It is constructed using two plies of 7-mil clear film. This dual-ply design provides increased durability and tonal control compared to single-ply heads.

What is Skyndeep Imaging Technology?

It is a proprietary Remo process that embeds colour directly into the film. This ensures the colour will not chip or wear off during use.

Does the Smoke tint affect the sound of the drumhead?

No, it is designed to provide the exact same sound characteristics as the standard Emperor Clear. It maintains a warm, open tone and great response.

Will the colour leave marks on my drumsticks?

No, because the colour is permanently embedded in the film structure rather than applied as a surface coating. It is designed to stop colour marks from transferring to sticks.

What size is this specific model?

This specific model is a 12-inch drumhead. It is intended for use on 12-inch tom-toms or snare drums.

How does the durability compare to standard heads?

The Skyndeep technology actually increases the durability of the head. The two-ply construction also makes it more resistant to denting than single-ply heads.

Can I use this for heavy hitting styles?

Yes, the Emperor series is known for its durability and powerful projection. The two 7-mil plies make it suitable for rock, pop, and other high-volume genres.

Is the finish transparent or opaque?

The Smoke variant is a tinted clear film. It provides a dark, translucent look while still allowing some visibility through the head.

Does this head offer good tonal control?

Yes, the two-ply construction offers excellent tonal control. It helps to manage unwanted overtones while maintaining a warm resonance.

What is the typical price for the 12-inch model?

The typical price range for this drumhead is approximately £23. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.

Are there other colours available in the Colortone range?

Yes, Remo produces the Colortone series in a wide range of sizes, colours, and styles. This allows drummers to match the heads to their specific kit aesthetics.

Is this suitable for a snare drum or just toms?

While most commonly used on toms for warm tones, a 12-inch Emperor can be used on 12-inch snare drums. It provides a durable striking surface with controlled ring.

Gear article

Remo Emperor Colortone Smoke 12 Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Colortone Smoke 12 Drum Head is a dual-ply drumhead designed for durability and visual appeal, featuring proprietary Skyndeep Imaging Technology. It offers the tonal characteristics of a standard Emperor Clear while providing a tinted smoke aesthetic that resists chipping and marking.

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Overview

The Remo Emperor Colortone Smoke is a 12-inch drumhead that bridges the gap between aesthetic customisation and professional performance. Part of the broader Colortone series, the Smoke variant provides a translucent grey tint that allows for a distinctive look on the drum kit without compromising the physical integrity of the film. It is constructed from two plies of 7-mil clear film, maintaining the industry-standard specifications of the classic Emperor series.

Skyndeep Imaging Technology

A primary feature of the Colortone series is the use of Skyndeep Imaging Technology. Unlike traditional painted or coated heads, this process embeds the colour directly into the structure of the film. This method ensures that the pigment does not chip off during heavy play, nor does it leave coloured residue or marks on drumsticks. Additionally, the technology is designed to increase the overall durability of the head, contributing to powerful projection.

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Sound Character and Performance

In terms of sonics, the Emperor Colortone Smoke is designed to be identical to the standard Emperor Clear. It delivers a warm, open tone with significant tonal control and a responsive feel. Because it utilises a two-ply construction, it naturally dampens some overtones compared to single-ply alternatives, making it a popular choice for drummers seeking a balance between resonance and focus.

Comparison and Suitability

The Colortone Smoke is suited for drummers who require the robust, heavy-hitting capabilities of a two-ply head but want a specific visual style. Compared to standard Clear Emperors, the only difference is the visual tint. When compared to specialized marching heads like the Evans MS3, the Emperor Colortone is better suited for standard kit applications where a warm, open sustain is preferred over the high-tension dryness of marching percussion.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone Smoke?: It is constructed using two plies of 7-mil clear film. This dual-ply design provides increased durability and tonal control compared to single-ply heads.
What is Skyndeep Imaging Technology?: It is a proprietary Remo process that embeds colour directly into the film. This ensures the colour will not chip or wear off during use.
Does the Smoke tint affect the sound of the drumhead?: No, it is designed to provide the exact same sound characteristics as the standard Emperor Clear. It maintains a warm, open tone and great response.
Will the colour leave marks on my drumsticks?: No, because the colour is permanently embedded in the film structure rather than applied as a surface coating. It is designed to stop colour marks from transferring to sticks.
What size is this specific model?: This specific model is a 12-inch drumhead. It is intended for use on 12-inch tom-toms or snare drums.
How does the durability compare to standard heads?: The Skyndeep technology actually increases the durability of the head. The two-ply construction also makes it more resistant to denting than single-ply heads.
Can I use this for heavy hitting styles?: Yes, the Emperor series is known for its durability and powerful projection. The two 7-mil plies make it suitable for rock, pop, and other high-volume genres.
Is the finish transparent or opaque?: The Smoke variant is a tinted clear film. It provides a dark, translucent look while still allowing some visibility through the head.
Does this head offer good tonal control?: Yes, the two-ply construction offers excellent tonal control. It helps to manage unwanted overtones while maintaining a warm resonance.
What is the typical price for the 12-inch model?: The typical price range for this drumhead is approximately £23. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
Are there other colours available in the Colortone range?: Yes, Remo produces the Colortone series in a wide range of sizes, colours, and styles. This allows drummers to match the heads to their specific kit aesthetics.
Is this suitable for a snare drum or just toms?: While most commonly used on toms for warm tones, a 12-inch Emperor can be used on 12-inch snare drums. It provides a durable striking surface with controlled ring.