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.

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.

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.
