Gear article

Remo Emperor Renaissance 16 Drum Head

The Remo Emperor Renaissance 16 Drum Head is a dual-ply percussion membrane designed for drummers seeking a balance between warmth, durability, and a textured feel. It utilizes two layers of 7.5-mil specially treated film to produce a sound characterised by enhanced mid-range and low-mid frequencies.

Remo Emperor Renaissance 16 Drum Head
Remo Emperor Renaissance 16 Drum Head
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Overview

The Remo Emperor Renaissance 16 Drum Head is a professional-grade replacement head suitable for floor toms or larger drums of corresponding diameter. It sits within Remo's Renaissance series, which is distinguished by a unique surface treatment that differentiates it from standard clear or white coated heads. By employing two plies of 7.5-mil film, the Emperor variant offers significantly higher durability and a more controlled resonance than its single-ply counterparts.

Design and Construction

The primary construction of this drum head involves a 15-mil total thickness, achieved by layering two identical 7.5-mil plies. The hallmark of the Renaissance line is the specially treated film. This process creates a textured surface that is not merely a top-layer coating but an integral part of the film's character. This design is intended to provide a soft feel under the stick or mallet, contrasting with the more rigid feel of standard heavy-duty heads.

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Tonal Character

Sonically, the Remo Emperor Renaissance focuses on warm, dark tones. The interaction between the two plies naturally dampens high-frequency overtones, while the textured surface treatment specifically boosts the mid and low-mid range frequencies. The result is a drum head that offers excellent tonal control and a focused fundamental note without the excessive 'ping' often associated with thinner or untreated clear heads.

Applications

Due to its 16-inch diameter and dual-ply construction, this head is particularly well-suited for floor toms in rock, jazz, and orchestral settings where a dark, controlled sustain is required. It is often selected by players who prefer the warmth of traditional calfskin but require the consistency and weather resistance of modern synthetic materials. It is a versatile choice that performs well under various tuning tensions.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Remo Emperor Renaissance 16 Drum Head?
The drum head consists of two plies of 7.5-mil specially treated film, resulting in a total thickness of 15 mils. This dual-ply construction contributes to its durability and controlled sound.
How does the Renaissance coating differ from standard white coating?
The Renaissance treatment is a special process that creates a textured surface on the film itself. This results in a warmer, darker tone and a softer feel compared to the bright, crisp response of standard white coated heads.
What tonal frequencies are enhanced by this drum head?
The Remo Emperor Renaissance is specifically designed to enhance mid and low-mid range frequencies. This provides a fuller, rounder sound that is ideal for floor toms.
Is the 16-inch size suitable for all drums?
It is designed specifically for drums with a 16-inch diameter, most commonly floor toms. It will not fit smaller rack toms or larger bass drums.
Does this head provide a soft or hard feel?
The Emperor Renaissance is known for providing a soft feel. This tactile response is a result of the specially treated textured surface and the specific film used in construction.
What is the typical price range for this drum head?
The Remo Emperor Renaissance 16 Drum Head typically retails for approximately GBP 40. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current stock availability.
How does the durability of an Emperor head compare to an Ambassador?
The Emperor features two plies of film, making it significantly more durable than the single-ply Ambassador series. This makes it better suited for heavier hitters or those seeking a longer lifespan from their heads.
Can this head be used for orchestral percussion?
Yes, its warm, dark tones and textured surface make it a popular choice for orchestral applications. It offers a balance of response and control that suits concert floor toms and frame drums.
Does the Renaissance film help with overtone control?
Yes, the combination of the two-ply construction and the textured film helps to control unwanted high-frequency overtones. It provides a more focused and controlled sound than clear heads.
Is this drum head available in other sizes?
Yes, Remo produces the Emperor Renaissance series in a wide range of sizes. This allows drummers to maintain a consistent tonal character across their entire drum kit.
Is this a single-ply or double-ply drum head?
This is a double-ply drum head. It uses two layers of 7.5-mil film to achieve its specific durability and tonal profile.
Who is the primary manufacturer of this product?
The product is manufactured by Remo, a leading company in the percussion industry known for their wide variety of synthetic drum heads.