Gear article

Remo Emperor Colortone Yellow 15" Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Colortone Yellow 15" Drum Head is a durable, double-ply percussion skin designed for modern drum sets. It combines the aesthetic appeal of a translucent yellow finish with the industry-standard construction of the Emperor series to provide focused mid-to-low frequencies and enhanced durability.

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Overview

The Remo Emperor Colortone 15" Yellow Drum Head is a professional-grade replacement part for large snare drums or floor toms. As part of the Colortone series, this head offers a visual customisation option while maintaining the sonic characteristics of the standard Clear Emperor. The vibrant yellow tint is integrated into the film, ensuring the colour does not chip or peel like traditional coated heads.

Construction and Technical Features

This drum head is built using two plies of 7-mil clear film, which is a hallmark of the Emperor line. To further refine the sound, it incorporates a 3-mil inlay ring. This specific design choice is intended to reduce unwanted overtones, resulting in a more controlled and focused sound profile. The 15-inch diameter makes it suitable for non-standard snare drums or specific tom-tom sizes that require a larger surface area.

Sound Profile and Character

The sonic signature of the Emperor Colortone is characterised by a heavy emphasis on mid and low-end tones. Because of the dual-ply construction, it provides a stronger attack compared to single-ply alternatives. The 3-mil inlay ring acts as a dampening agent, narrowing the frequency range to prevent excessive ringing, which is particularly useful in studio recording or high-volume live environments.

Suitability and Applications

This drum head is ideal for drummers seeking a balance between response and tonal control. It is well-suited for heavy hitters who require increased durability due to the 14-mil total film thickness. The aesthetic appeal of the Colortone series also makes it a popular choice for drummers who wish to match their instrument's appearance to their stage lighting or drum shell finish.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to single-ply heads, the Emperor Colortone offers significantly more durability and a shorter decay. While standard Clear Emperors provide the same sound, the Colortone version adds a specific visual element. For those requiring a drier sound, the internal inlay ring provides more control than a standard open Emperor head. In contrast to marching heads like the Evans MS3, the Emperor Colortone is designed for kit use, offering more resonance and a warmer tone suited for standard drum kit shells.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the construction of the Remo Emperor Colortone Yellow 15"?
It is constructed from two plies of 7-mil film. This results in a total thickness of 14 mils, providing high durability and a focused tone.
Does this drum head feature any internal dampening?
Yes, it includes a 3-mil inlay ring. This ring is designed to reduce overtones and provide better tonal control.
What is the primary visual feature of this head?
The head features a high-quality yellow coloured design. This is part of Remo's Colortone series for drum kit customisation.
How does the yellow colour affect the sound?
The colour is integrated into the clear film design. It provides the same high-level classic performance as standard Emperor heads while offering a new aesthetic.
What frequency range does this drum head emphasise?
The Remo Emperor Colortone is designed to provide focused mid and low-end tones. This makes it ideal for drummers wanting a deeper, punchier sound.
Is this drum head durable enough for heavy playing?
Yes, the two-ply construction offers increased durability and attack. It is designed to withstand more rigorous use than single-ply heads.
What size is this specific Remo Colortone head?
This specific model is 15 inches in diameter. It is intended for use on 15-inch drum shells, such as specific snare drums or toms.
Does the Colortone series come in other colours?
Yes, Remo produces the Colortone series in a variety of colours. This allows drummers to select the right aesthetic for their specific setup.
How much does the Remo Emperor Colortone 15" typically cost?
The typical price range for this drum head is approximately GBP 27. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
What is the difference between this and a standard Clear Emperor?
The primary difference is the addition of the Colortone yellow tint and the 3-mil inlay ring. The base film construction of two 7-mil plies remains the same.
Can this head be used on a snare drum?
Yes, provided the snare drum is 15 inches in diameter. The focused attack and overtone control make it a viable choice for snare applications.
Who is the manufacturer of this product?
The product is manufactured by Remo, a leading brand in the drum head industry. They are known for high-quality percussion parts and spares.