Gear article

Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone Blue 13-inch Drum Head

The Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone Blue 13-inch Drum Head is a heavy-duty, dual-ply snare head designed for durability and overtone control. Part of the Colortone series, it combines professional sonic performance with a vibrant blue aesthetic using Remo’s specialized film technology.

Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone Blue 13 Drum Head
Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone Blue 13 Drum Head
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Background and Design

The Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone series represents an evolution in drum head customisation, integrating the structural benefits of the established Powerstroke 77 line with the visual appeal of Colortone technology. This 13-inch model is specifically engineered for snare drums, featuring a clear film that has been treated to provide a high-quality blue finish without compromising the head's resonance or response.

Technical Construction

The head is built from two plies of 7-mil clear film, providing a total thickness that ensures high durability under heavy playing conditions. To further refine the sound and increase the lifespan of the head, Remo includes:

  • A 5-mil top dot: Positioned in the centre to add strength at the primary strike point.
  • A 7-mil inlay ring: Located on the underside to dampen unwanted overtones and focus the fundamental pitch.

This multi-layered approach is designed to produce a controlled, crisp sound suited for high-volume environments.

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Tonal Character

Sonically, the Powerstroke 77 Colortone Blue is defined by its warmth and precision. The dual-ply construction naturally rounds off the high-frequency 'zing' associated with single-ply heads, while the internal damping ring significantly reduces ringing overtones. The result is a drum head that provides a 'dry' but powerful crack with a focused fundamental note, making it easier to mix in both live and studio settings.

Target User and Comparison

This drum head is primarily aimed at drummers who require both visual impact and sonic control. It is particularly well-suited for rock, pop, and metal genres where snare drums are often tuned for a deep, punchy response with minimal sustain. Compared to standard clear Powerstroke 77 heads, the Colortone variant offers the same durability and tonal characteristics but allows for kit customisation through its blue aesthetic. While it is more controlled than a single-ply head, it offers significantly more durability than thinner alternatives.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used in the Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone?
The head is constructed from two layers of high-quality 7-mil film, which provides a robust and durable playing surface.
What size is this specific drum head model?
This model is designed to fit a 13-inch diameter drum, typically used for smaller primary snare drums or auxiliary snares.
What is the purpose of the 5-mil top dot?
The 5-mil top dot is added to the centre of the head to increase durability and focus the tone at the main impact point.
How does the Colortone technology affect the sound?
The Colortone process is designed to provide a vibrant blue look while maintaining the classic, high-quality warm and crisp tones expected from the Powerstroke series.
Does this drum head come with an inlay ring?
Yes, it features a 7-mil internal inlay ring specifically designed to reduce overtones and control the ring of the drum.
What kind of tone can I expect from the Powerstroke 77 Blue?
The head produces a warm, crisp, and highly controlled tone with a significant reduction in unwanted ringing overtones.
Is this head suitable for heavy hitters?
Yes, the combination of two 7-mil plies and an additional 5-mil top dot makes it one of the more durable options for aggressive playing styles.
Can I get this head in other colours?
Yes, the Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone series is available in a variety of different colours to match various drum kit setups.
What is the typical price for this 13-inch head?
The typical price for the Remo Powerstroke 77 Colortone Blue 13-inch head is approximately GBP 29.
How does this head compare to a standard single-ply head?
It is significantly more durable and offers much more overtone control than a single-ply head due to its two-ply construction and internal dampening.
What type of drum is this head best suited for?
While it can be used on various drums, its design features like the top dot and inlay ring make it ideal for use as a snare drum batter head.
Is the blue colour a coating or part of the film?
The Colortone series utilizes a specialized imaging technology that integrates the colour into the film, ensuring it doesn't chip or flake like traditional coatings.