Gear article

Remo Emperor Colortone Yellow 14 Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Colortone Yellow 14 is a professional-grade drum head designed to combine the durability of the classic Emperor series with vibrant aesthetic customisation. Constructed from two plies of 7-mil film, it delivers focused mid-range and low-end tones with enhanced attack and reduced overtones.

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Overview and Design

The Remo Emperor Colortone Yellow 14 Drum Head is a part of Remo's 'Parts & spares' category, specifically engineered to offer a new level of visual customisation for drummers without sacrificing the tonal standards of the industry-leading Emperor range. The head is defined by its vibrant yellow aesthetic, achieved through Remo's Colortone technology which applies colour to a clear film design.

The head is constructed using two layers of 7-mil film. This 2-ply design is a hallmark of the Emperor series, known for providing a thicker, more durable playing surface than single-ply alternatives. Additionally, the head incorporates a 3-mil inlay ring, which is strategically placed to dampen unwanted high-frequency overtones and focus the fundamental pitch of the drum.

Tonal Characteristics

The primary sonic profile of the Emperor Colortone Yellow is focused on mid-range and low-end frequencies. Because of the dual-ply construction, the head offers a punchy attack and a shorter sustain compared to thinner heads. The inclusion of the internal inlay ring further refines the sound by controlling overtones, providing a 'pre-equallised' sound that is useful in both live and studio environments. It offers a balanced response that allows for precise tonal control across different tuning ranges.

Durability and Application

Due to the 14-mil total thickness (excluding the inlay), this drum head is exceptionally durable, making it suitable for heavier hitters and genres that require a consistent, reliable surface. While the 14-inch size is most commonly utilised on snare drums or floor toms, the Colortone series is available in various sizes to allow for full-kit colour coordination. It is an ideal choice for drummers seeking to match their gear's appearance to their stage lighting or personal branding.

Market Comparison

Within the market for drum heads and percussion accessories, the Remo Emperor Colortone occupies a unique niche by merging aesthetics with professional performance. While traditional clear or coated heads like the Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side 14" focus purely on utility and specific application (such as marching), the Colortone series prioritises visual impact. In terms of pricing, it sits at a competitive mid-range point, typically retailing for approximately £26.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone Yellow?
The drum head is made from two plies of 7-mil clear film, resulting in a total thickness of 14-mil. It also features an integrated 3-mil inlay ring to help control overtones.
How does the Colortone technology affect the sound?
Remo designed the Colortone series to provide the same high-level performance as their standard clear heads. The colour application is intended to offer customisation without compromising the classic Emperor sound profile.
What size is this specific drum head?
This specific model is 14 inches in diameter. This makes it a standard fit for most snare drums and some small floor toms.
What are the primary tonal benefits of this head?
The head provides focused mid and low-end tones. It is specifically designed to offer increased attack and reduced overtones for a cleaner sound.
Is the yellow colour transparent or opaque?
The Colortone series utilizes a high-quality clear design with an added colour tint. This allows for a vibrant yellow look while maintaining the characteristics of a clear drum head.
What is the purpose of the 3-mil inlay ring?
The 3-mil inlay ring is designed to reduce overtones. It helps in providing a perfect balance of response and tonal control by dampening excessive ringing.
How durable is the Remo Emperor Colortone?
Because it uses two plies of 7-mil film, it is highly durable. It is built to withstand heavier playing styles while maintaining its tonal integrity over time.
What is the typical price for this drum head in the UK?
The typical price range for the Remo Emperor Colortone 14 Yellow Drum Head is approximately £26. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Can this head be used on a snare drum?
Yes, 14 inches is the standard size for the majority of snare drums. The focused attack and overtone control make it a popular choice for snare applications.
Does Remo offer other colours in the Colortone series?
Yes, the Colortone series is available in a variety of colours. This allows drummers to select the specific hue that best fits their setup and aesthetic preferences.
How does this compare to a standard single-ply head?
Compared to a single-ply head, the Emperor Colortone offers more durability and a deeper, more focused sound. Single-ply heads typically have more sustain and overtones.
Is this head suitable for studio recording?
Yes, the focused mid and low-end tones and controlled overtones make it very useful in the studio. It requires less external dampening than many other heads.