When it comes to recording drums, the choice of drumheads can significantly shape your sound. As a professional musician and educator with over 35 years of experience, I’ve dedicated countless hours to exploring various drumheads to find the perfect fit for my recordings. Today, let’s delve into the debate of coated heads versus clear heads, while I share my personal preference along the way!

The Case for Clear Heads

Clear drumheads are often praised for their bright and open sound. They allow the natural tone of the drum to shine through, making them a popular choice among many drummers. Here are some reasons why you might lean towards clear heads:

• Clarity and Projection: Clear heads provide a punchy attack and a crisp sound that can cut through mixes effortlessly. This makes them ideal for genres that require a pronounced drum presence, such as rock or pop.

• Versatility: Clear heads work well in various musical settings, allowing you to adapt your sound to different styles without losing character.

• Durability: Many drummers find that clear heads tend to be more durable than coated ones, making them a reliable option for both studio sessions and live performances.

The Appeal of Coated Heads

On the flip side, coated drumheads have their own unique charm. They offer a warmer tone and a softer attack, which can be particularly appealing in certain contexts. Here are some advantages of using coated heads:

• Warmth and Depth: Coated heads produce a mellower sound that can add warmth to your recordings. This is especially beneficial for genres like jazz or acoustic music where a more rounded tone is desired.

• Reduced Overtones: The texture of coated heads helps control overtones, resulting in a more focused sound that can sit nicely in a mix.

• Feel: Many drummers appreciate the feel of coated heads under their sticks, as they provide a bit more grip and control during play.

My Personal Preference: Smooth White Heads

While both coated and clear heads have their merits, I personally gravitate towards smooth white heads as my go-to choice—except when it comes to snare drums! Smooth white heads exhibit very similar characteristics to clear heads but without the coating. This allows me to achieve that bright clarity while enjoying the visual appeal of the white colour, which helps me target the drums better during play.

For my snare drum, I opt for a coated Remo Controlled Sound X head. This combination gives me the warmth I desire while still maintaining an articulate response that fits perfectly in any recording scenario.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between coated and clear drumheads boils down to personal preference and the specific sound you’re aiming for in your recordings. Whether you lean towards the bright clarity of clear heads or the warm depth of coated ones (or even smooth white heads like me!), it’s essential to experiment and find what works best for you.

So, what do you prefer? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Happy drumming!