Evans BD22EMADHW Drumhead

Evans EMAD Heavyweight Series: Power, Control, and Durability

The EMAD Heavyweight series is built for the hardest hitters. It combines the extreme durability of a thick, two-ply construction with the innovative EMAD system, which allows drummers to adjust the amount of dampening externally. This offers incredible control over attack, sustain, and low-end without needing to put blankets or pillows inside the drum.

22-inch Diameter for Bass Drum Batter

The "22" in "BD22EMADHW" signifies that this is a 22-inch diameter drumhead. This is the most common and versatile size for a bass drum in most standard drum kits. "BD" indicates it's a Bass Drum head.

Heavyweight Double-Ply Construction for Maximum Impact

The "Heavyweight" designation means this is one of Evans' thickest and most durable bass drumheads:

• Two Plies of 10 mil Film: The head is constructed from two identical plies of 10 mil (0.25 mm) Mylar film each, resulting in an extremely robust 20 mil total thickness. This super-thick, dual-ply construction provides:

  • Maximum Durability: It's designed to withstand the most aggressive and heavy hitting, offering an exceptionally long lifespan.

  • Compressed Attack: The thickness of the plies gives the sound a very strong, punchy, and "pre-eq'd" or "compressed" attack, perfect for cutting through loud mixes.

  • Reduced Sustain: The heavy plies inherently reduce sustain, resulting in a very short, controlled "thump" or "thud."

Clear Finish for Punch and Definition

The BD22EMADHW 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 heavy plies, creates a cutting punch.

EMAD (Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping) System

This is the hallmark 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 reaching inside the drum.

• Two Interchangeable Damping Rings: The BD22EMADHW 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 still quite controlled due to the thick plies.

• Versatility: This system makes the BD22EMADHW incredibly adaptable, allowing drummers to quickly dial in sounds ranging from very tight and punchy to slightly more resonant, depending on the musical context.

Level 360 Technology for Optimal Fit and Tuning

Like all modern Evans drumheads, the BD22EMADHW 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 BD22EMADHW delivers a sound profile characterized by:

• Aggressive, Compressed Attack: A very strong, defined, and punchy initial impact that cuts through.

• Short, Controlled Sustain: Very minimal ringing, leading to a focused "thud" or "thump."

• Deep Low-End: Emphasizes fundamental bass frequencies, providing a powerful bottom end.

• Versatile Control: The EMAD system allows for significant tonal shaping, from moderately dry to extremely dead.

• High Volume Capability: Designed to perform exceptionally well in loud musical environments.

Intended Use

The BD22EMADHW is a bass drum batter head (the head you strike). Its characteristics make it highly suitable for:

• Heavy Hitters: Ideal for drummers who play with significant power and need a head that can withstand extreme punishment.

• Rock, Metal, Hardcore: Perfect for genres that demand a powerful, punchy, and highly controlled bass drum sound that sits well in a dense mix.

• Studio Recording: The built-in, adjustable dampening makes it incredibly convenient for dialing in precise, repeatable sounds without needing external gates or excessive EQ.

• Live Performance: Offers consistent tone and projection, ensuring the bass drum is heard clearly.

• Drummers who prefer minimal internal dampening: The EMAD system negates the need for pillows or blankets inside the drum (unless extreme dampening is desired).