Evans EMAD Series: Versatile Control for Bass Drums

The EMAD series is designed to give drummers ultimate control over their bass drum sound. The "EMAD" system allows for adjustable dampening, providing versatility that single-ply heads usually lack, without needing to put anything inside the drum.

16-inch Diameter for Bass Drum Batter

The "16" in "BD16EMAD" indicates a 16-inch diameter drumhead. While 20" or 22" are typical for full-sized bass drums, 16" is very common for:

• Small "Bop" Kits: Often used in jazz or acoustic settings.

• Converted Floor Toms: Many drummers convert a 16" floor tom into a compact bass drum for portability or specific sounds.

• Specific Effects: To get a higher-pitched, punchier bass drum sound.

  "BD" indicates it's a Bass Drum head.

Single-Ply Construction for Response and Resonance

Unlike the EMAD Heavyweight (EMADHW) which is a double-ply, the standard EMAD is a single-ply head:

• Single Ply of 10 mil Film: The head is constructed from a single ply of 10 mil (0.25 mm) Mylar film. This single-ply thickness provides:

  • Good Responsiveness: Allows the drum to speak quickly.

  • Balanced Sustain: While the EMAD system controls it, a 10 mil single ply provides a good fundamental tone and moderate sustain before dampening.

  • Defined Attack: A clear, crisp initial beater impact.

Clear Finish for Punch and Definition

The BD16EMAD typically comes with a clear finish.

• Clear Finish: A clear drumhead generally offers a brighter, more prominent initial attack and emphasizes the fundamental pitch of the bass drum with crisp definition. This brightness, combined with the EMAD system, allows for a focused punch.

EMAD (Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping) System

This is the defining feature of the EMAD series:

• External Muffling: The EMAD system consists of an externally mounted plastic channel that holds interchangeable foam damping rings. This system allows drummers to modify the attack and focus of their bass drum sound without removing the head or putting anything inside the drum.

• Two Interchangeable Damping Rings: The BD16EMAD typically comes with two foam rings:

  • Thinner Foam Ring: Provides subtle dampening, offering a focused punch and slightly more controlled sustain while retaining some resonance.

  • Wider Foam Ring: Offers maximum low-end and attack by providing more aggressive dampening, resulting in a drier, more muted "thud" with minimal sustain.

  • No Ring: Allows the head to resonate more freely, though the inherent design still adds some focus.

• Versatility: This system makes the BD16EMAD incredibly adaptable, allowing drummers to quickly dial in sounds ranging from very open and punchy to quite dry and controlled, depending on the musical context and the size of the bass drum it's on.

Level 360 Technology for Optimal Fit and Tuning

Like all modern Evans drumheads, the BD16EMAD incorporates Level 360 Technology. This innovative collar design ensures:

• Perfect Seating: The head sits evenly and completely flush with the drum's bearing edge, simplifying installation and maximizing full contact for optimal resonance.

• Effortless Tuning: The improved and consistent contact allows for quicker, easier, and more stable tuning across the entire head's surface.

• Extended Pitch Range: Drummers can achieve a wider array of usable pitches from their bass drum.

• Optimized Sound Quality: Ensures consistent and full contact with the drum shell, crucial for maximizing the drum's fundamental tone and articulation.

Sound Characteristics

The Evans BD16EMAD delivers a sound profile characterized by:

• Punchy Attack: A clear and well-defined initial impact, with the EMAD system allowing for adjustments in its intensity.

• Controlled Sustain: From moderately sustained to very short, depending on the chosen damping ring.

• Focused Low-End: The EMAD system helps to bring out the fundamental low frequencies while controlling unwanted overtones.

• Versatile Tonal Shaping: Can adapt from a more resonant jazz kick to a tighter rock punch.

• Good Sensitivity: Responsive to dynamics, despite the dampening.

Intended Use

The BD16EMAD is a bass drum batter head (the head you strike). Its characteristics make it highly suitable for:

• Small Bass Drums (16"): Ideal for "bop" kits, converted floor toms, or compact setups where a focused, adaptable bass drum sound is needed.

• Jazz, Fusion, Acoustic Gigs: Can provide a controlled but still warm and resonant sound.

• Pop, R&B, Light Rock: When a punchy, defined, and easily controllable kick drum is desired.

• Studio Recording: The adjustable dampening makes it easy to fine-tune the sound for different tracks without needing additional internal muffling.

• Live Performance: Offers consistent tone and projection for smaller bass drums