Bass Drum Heads

The kick head decides whether a bass drum booms, thuds or clicks, and the Evans EMAD family is built for a focused, punchy kick without stuffing the shell full of damping. This section covers the EMAD Clear and EMAD Heavyweight Clear in 22″, the EMAD2 Clear in 20″ and 22″, and the EBP-22EMAD2SYS, a 22″ EMAD2 batter and reso pair.

Size comes first, so measure the shell: most kicks are 20″ or 22″, and the two are not interchangeable. Then choose the feel. The EMAD is the more open, lively version with plenty of low end. The EMAD2 is thicker and more controlled, with a tighter, punchier note that sits well in a mix. The EMAD Heavyweight is the one for very hard hitters and heavy music, where the head takes the most punishment.

The EBP-22EMAD2SYS pack suits a kit with a tired front head, or anyone wanting a matched pair in one go. For the point where the beater strikes, bass drum patches are in Drum Accessories.

Bass Drum Heads FAQs

What size bass drum head do I need? Measure the bass drum shell across its diameter. The heads here are 20″ and 22″; order the size that matches the shell, not the hoop.

Do I need a patch on the bass drum head? It is not essential, but a patch protects the head where the beater hits and can add some click, which is useful for hard hitters and double pedal players.