Recommended Drumheads [2024]

The drummer holds down the fort for the band.
And the sound of the drums is determined by the drumheads.
The right drumhead can give you the sound you desire or add a unique character to your kit.
But with so many options available, it can be tough to choose!
This article will reveal how to select the right drumhead all at once!

First up, here are some standard drumheads that are said to suit any genre.

①Classic Products

Remo / 114BA-JP Coated Ambassador 14-inch

When it comes to classic drumhead manufacturers, Remo is the name.
Among their lineup, the super-standard 114SA stands out.
The Ambassador is a single-ply film of standard thickness.
If you’re unsure which head to use for your snare drum, this is a safe bet!
Remo heads come in products with ‘OO’ and ‘JP’ at the end of the model number, even within the same series and inch size. This difference indicates Japanese and international versions. For more details, check out our review: “Examining the Differences Between Japanese and International Remo Drumheads!”

And for snare-side (bottom) head, I recommend:

Remo / 114SA [SA-0114-00] Snare Side Head 14"

This is an ultra-thin snare drum bottom head that transmits vibrations to the snare wires with ease.
Paired with the 114BA, it’s a very user-friendly head!
Another notable drumhead manufacturer is Evans.

Evans / B14UV1

This is the go-to snare head from Evans!
The surface of this head is treated with UV coating, making it resistant to heavy impacts.
It has a warm tone and is perfect for modern pop music!

EVANS / S14H30

For snare side, I recommend this S14H30.
This is a staple product from Evans for snare side.
It pairs well with both single-ply and double-ply batter heads, bringing out the best in your snare wires!

②Choosing Based on Durability

If you frequently find yourself breaking heads while playing, why not opt for a drumhead that excels in durability?
Evans’ Heavyweight Series features 10mil double-ply heads that are thick and highly durable—recommended for metal drummers!

Evans / B14HW Heavyweight Coated 14-inch

For bass drums, the EMAD Heavyweight Series, which allows sound adjustment with the included ring, is also available!

Evans / BD20EMADHW

③Choosing Based on Sound

As mentioned at the beginning, changing the drumhead can significantly alter your sound.

For those seeking a bright and open sound, I recommend:

Remo / C-12TA 12-inch

This is a clear Ambassador head, commonly used for toms.
It’s known for its open and bright sound.

For those seeking a darker sound, we recommend:

Remo / P4-114 Powerstroke 4 Coated 14-inch

The Powerstroke Series is characterized by its dark and heavy resonance.

④For Those Looking for Something Unique

Evans / TT14C7

The Calftone Series from Evans has a vintage look reminiscent of natural calfskin.
It’s ideal for jazz and orchestral music.

Evans / TT12HB

The Hydraulic Series stands out with its vibrant appearance.
It offers a short sustain and thick, deep sound, reminiscent of early 1970s rock ‘n’ roll.
The lineup also includes Red, Glass, and Black versions.

Remo / RA-116 [RA-0016-SS] Renaissance 16-inch

Remo also offers some impactful drumheads.
This model realistically reproduces the natural sound characteristic of calfskin.
The gray color is also quite striking.

⑤Drumheads for Marching and Percussion

For marching, we recommend:

Evans / SS14MX5 MX5 14-inch Marching Snare Side

This is a thinner head with a 5 mil single-ply construction.
It comes with a transparent “overtone control ring” on the back, allowing you to adjust the sound to your liking!

When it comes to percussion, there are many types.

・For Bongos:

Remo / NUB-0715 NUSKYN 7.15" [M9-0715-N5]

It offers a warm sound with clear, high-end overtones that cut through!

Another manufacturer that deals with percussion heads is LP.

LP / Drumhead Overview

LP is a standard brand for percussion, used by world-renowned artists.
They carry on traditional techniques into the present day and are recommended for beginners and professionals alike.

How was this guide?
I hope it serves as a reference for those who want to replace their drumheads or need to buy new ones but are unsure which to choose!

If you want to explore more detailed types, please refer to Remo’s special page and Evans’ special page!

■ Remo Drumhead Guide
■ Evans Drumhead Guide
■ List of Remo Drumheads
■ List of Evans Drumheads