Gear article

Remo Powerstroke 3 Colortone Red 22 Ported Bass Drum Head

The Remo Powerstroke 3 Colortone Red 22 is a 22-inch single-ply resonant bass drum head designed to combine visual customisation with professional acoustic control. It utilizes a 10-mil film construction and features a pre-cut 5-inch offset microphone hole for convenient studio and stage use.

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Overview

The Remo Powerstroke 3 Colortone Red 22 Ported Bass Drum Head is a specialised resonant head that merges the industry-standard Powerstroke 3 architecture with Remo's Colortone technology. This specific model is finished in a vibrant red tint, offering a high level of aesthetic customisation for drummers without sacrificing the tonal properties associated with clear drumheads. It is designed to fit standard 22-inch bass drums and includes a factory-cut microphone port.

Construction and Design

Constructed from a single ply of 10-mil film, the head incorporates a 10-mil underlay dampening ring located at the outer edge of the head. This design is engineered to provide a specific balance of response and tonal control. The inclusion of the Colortone technology ensures the red hue is integrated into the film while maintaining transparency and the sonic characteristics of Remo’s standard Mylar films. The 5-inch offset microphone hole is positioned to facilitate easy internal mic placement while maintaining structural integrity.

Sonic Characteristics

The Powerstroke 3 Colortone Red provides focused mid and low-frequency tones accompanied by a well-defined attack. The internal dampening ring serves to attenuate unwanted overtones, resulting in a controlled sustain that is suitable for both live performance and recording environments. The ported design further aids in reducing the 'boominess' of the bass drum by allowing air to escape, resulting in a punchier, drier sound.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other resonant options, the Colortone series stands out for its visual properties. In terms of construction, it competes with the Evans EQ3 Resonant or the Attack ProFlex1. Unlike the Evans 56 Calftone, which focuses on a vintage aesthetic and warmer, synthetic-skin tones, the Powerstroke 3 Colortone prioritises a modern, focused attack. For drummers requiring near-silent practice, the Remo Silentstroke serves as a mesh-based alternative, whereas the Colortone is a full-volume performance head.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the thickness of the Remo Powerstroke 3 Colortone Red head?
The head is constructed from a single ply of 10-mil film. It also includes an additional 10-mil underlay dampening ring at the outer edge for tonal control.
What size is the microphone port on this drum head?
The head features a pre-cut 5-inch offset microphone hole. This allows for easy placement of microphones inside the bass drum for amplification or recording.
Does the red colour affect the sound of the drum head?
Remo's Colortone technology is designed to provide visual customisation while maintaining the same high-level class-leading sound as the standard Powerstroke 3. It provides focused mid and low tones similar to a clear head.
What is the primary function of the underlay dampening ring?
The 10-mil underlay dampening ring is designed to provide the perfect balance of response and tonal control. It focuses the sound by reducing unwanted high-frequency overtones.
Is this head suitable for use as a batter head?
While Powerstroke 3 heads are often used as batter heads, this specific model is 'Ported,' meaning it has a hole for a microphone. Ported heads are typically used as resonant (front) heads rather than batter (striking) heads.
What is the typical price range for this specific 22-inch model?
Based on current market data, the typical price range for this drum head is approximately GBP 75. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
How does the Colortone series differ from standard Powerstroke 3 heads?
The Colortone series offers the same performance features as the standard Powerstroke 3 but adds a high-quality coloured design. This allows for visual customisation of the drum kit.
What kind of attack does this drum head provide?
The Remo Powerstroke 3 Colortone Red provides a well-defined attack. This makes it suitable for genres where a clear, punchy bass drum sound is required.
Will this head fit a 20-inch or 24-inch bass drum?
No, this specific model is designed for a 22-inch bass drum. However, Remo Powerstroke 3 Colortone heads are available in a variety of other sizes to fit different drums.
How does this compare to the Evans 56 Calftone series?
The Evans 56 Calftone is designed for a vintage look and warm tone, whereas the Powerstroke 3 Colortone Red provides a modern, vibrant look with focused mid and low tones.
What is the benefit of an offset microphone hole?
An offset hole allows for internal microphone placement while leaving more surface area in the center of the head. This helps maintain a better resonant response compared to a large centre-cut hole.
Is the red finish transparent or opaque?
The Colortone series uses a transparent tinted film. This allows the red colour to be vibrant while still appearing translucent under stage lighting.