How many plies does the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" have?

It is a two-ply drum head. Each ply consists of a 7-mil coated film, providing a total thickness that enhances durability and sound control.

What is the primary benefit of the 'Pinstripe' design?

The pinstripe refers to an overtone-reducing agent applied between the two plies. This helps to control unwanted ring and focuses the drum's attack and low-end response.

What genres of music is this drum head best suited for?

It is ideal for pop, rock, and grunge. These styles benefit from the head's increased durability and its ability to produce a focused, punchy sound.

How does the coated finish affect the sound compared to a clear head?

The coating adds warmth to the tone and provides a slightly more muted high-frequency response. It also increases the attack of the drum head compared to non-coated versions.

Is the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" durable enough for heavy hitters?

Yes, its two-ply 7-mil construction is specifically designed for increased durability. It can withstand the higher impact levels common in rock and grunge drumming.

What is the typical price range for this drum head in the UK?

The typical price range for the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" is approximately £25. Prices may vary slightly based on the specific retailer.

What tonal range does this head produce?

It primarily produces mid-range tones with a very focused low-end. The design is intended to minimize high-pitched overtones that can cause muddy mixes.

Can this head be used on a snare drum?

While primarily designed for toms, it can be used on 8-inch snare drums. However, it will produce a very dry and controlled sound compared to standard snare heads.

Does this head require a lot of dampening?

Usually, no. Because it already features an overtone-reducing agent between the plies, it provides inherent muffling that reduces the need for external gels or tape.

How does this compare to the Evans Black Chrome 8-inch head?

While both are durable, the Remo Pinstripe Coated focuses on mid-range warmth and attack. The Evans Black Chrome is often noted for its different aesthetic and specific mid-to-low frequency response.

What is the thickness of each ply?

Each of the two plies in the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" drum head is 7-mil thick. This standard thickness for the Pinstripe series balances responsiveness with strength.

Is this head suitable for jazz drumming?

While it can be used for any genre, it may be too muffled for traditional jazz which often requires the high resonance and sensitivity of single-ply heads. It is better suited for rock and pop.

Gear article

Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" Drum Head

The Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" Drum Head is a dual-ply percussion membrane designed for mid-range focus and enhanced durability. Featuring an overtone-reducing agent between two 7-mil plies, it is one of the most widely used drum heads for rock and pop applications.

See live prices

Overview and Design

The Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" Drum Head is a staple component in the Remo Pinstripe series, a line that has established itself as one of the most popular drum head designs globally. The head is constructed from two layers of 7-mil coated film, providing a robust playing surface that resists wear more effectively than single-ply alternatives.

A defining characteristic of the Pinstripe design is the application of an overtone-reducing agent between the two plies. This agent is specifically applied to the outer edge of the head, visible as the 'pinstripe' line, which helps dampen high-frequency overtones and focuses the drum's natural resonance into a punchier delivery.

Sonic Character

In terms of audio performance, the Pinstripe Coated 8" is noted for its mid-range tones and focused low-end. The addition of the coating provides a warmer timbre compared to the clear version of the Pinstripe, while simultaneously increasing the attack. The two-ply structure naturally shortens the decay, making it easier to control in recording environments or live settings where excessive ringing is undesirable.

Fender 10-Hole Contemporary Jazz Bass Pickguard 3-Ply Black

Suitability and Applications

Due to its increased durability and sharp attack, this drum head is highly recommended for heavier playing styles. It is particularly suited for:

Pop
Rock
Grunge

The 8-inch diameter makes it an ideal fit for small rack toms or specialized auxiliary percussion setups that require a clear, punchy sound that can cut through a dense musical mix.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other 8-inch heads, such as the Evans Black Chrome series, the Remo Pinstripe Coated offers a different tonal profile focused on warmth and mid-range prominence. While single-ply heads offer more resonance and a brighter 'singing' quality, the Pinstripe prioritizes durability and overtone control. It remains a distinct choice against marching-specific heads, such as the Evans MS3 Clear, which are designed for the high-tension requirements of snare-side marching applications rather than standard kit toms.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

How many plies does the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" have?: It is a two-ply drum head. Each ply consists of a 7-mil coated film, providing a total thickness that enhances durability and sound control.
What is the primary benefit of the 'Pinstripe' design?: The pinstripe refers to an overtone-reducing agent applied between the two plies. This helps to control unwanted ring and focuses the drum's attack and low-end response.
What genres of music is this drum head best suited for?: It is ideal for pop, rock, and grunge. These styles benefit from the head's increased durability and its ability to produce a focused, punchy sound.
How does the coated finish affect the sound compared to a clear head?: The coating adds warmth to the tone and provides a slightly more muted high-frequency response. It also increases the attack of the drum head compared to non-coated versions.
Is the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" durable enough for heavy hitters?: Yes, its two-ply 7-mil construction is specifically designed for increased durability. It can withstand the higher impact levels common in rock and grunge drumming.
What is the typical price range for this drum head in the UK?: The typical price range for the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" is approximately £25. Prices may vary slightly based on the specific retailer.
What tonal range does this head produce?: It primarily produces mid-range tones with a very focused low-end. The design is intended to minimize high-pitched overtones that can cause muddy mixes.
Can this head be used on a snare drum?: While primarily designed for toms, it can be used on 8-inch snare drums. However, it will produce a very dry and controlled sound compared to standard snare heads.
Does this head require a lot of dampening?: Usually, no. Because it already features an overtone-reducing agent between the plies, it provides inherent muffling that reduces the need for external gels or tape.
How does this compare to the Evans Black Chrome 8-inch head?: While both are durable, the Remo Pinstripe Coated focuses on mid-range warmth and attack. The Evans Black Chrome is often noted for its different aesthetic and specific mid-to-low frequency response.
What is the thickness of each ply?: Each of the two plies in the Remo Pinstripe Coated 8" drum head is 7-mil thick. This standard thickness for the Pinstripe series balances responsiveness with strength.
Is this head suitable for jazz drumming?: While it can be used for any genre, it may be too muffled for traditional jazz which often requires the high resonance and sensitivity of single-ply heads. It is better suited for rock and pop.