Ever cranked up your favorite metal song and imagined yourself behind the kit, unleashing a thunderous barrage of double bass and crashing cymbals? The sound you hear in your head – that powerful, driving force – starts with something crucial: your drum heads. But when you walk into a music store or browse online, the sheer number of choices can feel overwhelming. It’s like trying to decipher a secret code just to get a good drum tone!
Choosing the right drum heads for metal isn’t just about picking something that looks cool. It’s about finding the sound that cuts through the roaring guitars, the punch that drives the rhythm, and the durability to withstand those intense drumming sessions. Many drummers struggle with this because the wrong heads can make your drums sound weak, muddy, or just plain wrong for the genre. You want that aggressive attack and deep resonance, not a muffled thud.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down what makes a drum head perfect for metal, from the materials they’re made from to how they affect your sound. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for, so you can finally get the tone you’ve been dreaming of. Get ready to transform your drumming sound and start playing like a true metal beast!
Our Top 5 Drum Heads For Metal Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Drum Heads For Metal Detailed Reviews
1. Evans Genera HD Dry Snare Drum Head – 14 Snare Drum Head – Featuring Vent Holes to Control Sustain & Tighten Sound – Overtone Control – Coated with 2 Plies – 14 Inch
Rating: 9.3/10
The 14-inch Evans Genera HD Dry Snare Drum Head is built for drummers who want a powerful and controlled sound. It uses two layers of film, giving it a strong attack and a balanced tone. This drum head also has special vent holes that help manage how long the sound rings out and make it sound tighter. It’s great for live shows and recording in the studio.
What We Like:
- It has two plies of film. This makes the sound strong and balanced.
- The vent holes help control the sound. They make it tighter and cut down on extra ringing.
- It has a special ring that stops too much extra sound. This makes the drum sound great live and in the studio.
- Level 360 Technology makes it easy to tune. It also gives you a wider range of sounds.
- It’s made in the USA. Evans has been making drum heads for a long time and makes high-quality ones.
What Could Be Improved:
- The coated finish might wear down with very heavy use over time.
- The overtone control ring is fixed, so you can’t adjust its position for different tuning needs.
This drum head offers excellent sound control for any drummer. It’s a reliable choice for both performance and recording.
2. Ktaxon 5 Pieces Drum Heads
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your drumming sound with the Ktaxon 5 Pieces Drum Heads set. This pack includes five white PET drum heads in popular sizes: 12″, 13″, 14″, 16″, and a large 22″ head. They are made to fit most standard drum kits and are perfect for rock and metal music. These drum heads offer a clean, bright sound that makes your drumming shine, whether you’re practicing at home or playing a show. Plus, their simple white design makes your drum set look sleek and professional.
What We Like:
- The set comes with five different sizes (12″, 13″, 14″, 16″, 22″) to fit a variety of drums, giving you options for your whole kit.
- These drum heads are built tough, so they can handle a lot of playing and last a long time.
- You get a clear and lively sound that really makes your music pop.
- Putting them on is super easy. You don’t need special tools, and you can swap them out fast.
- Their clean white look adds a stylish touch to your drum set, making it look as good as it sounds.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they offer good sound, they might not have the deepest or most complex tones for very specific musical styles.
- The PET material, while durable, might not offer the same warm resonance as some higher-end materials.
The Ktaxon drum heads are a solid choice for drummers wanting an affordable upgrade. They are easy to install and provide a good sound for many music styles.
3. Evans Hydraulic Drum Heads – B14HBG – Drum Head with Layer of Oil – Supresses Unwanted Overtones – Ideal for Rock
Rating: 9.0/10
The Evans Hydraulic Drum Heads – B14HBG is a 14-inch black drum head that brings a classic sound to your drums. It has a special layer of oil between two plies of blue film. This oil helps get rid of extra ringing sounds, called overtones. This makes your drum sound fat, deep, and short. It’s a sound many drummers loved in the early rock and roll music of the 70s. This drum head is built tough with two plies, so it will last a long time. It’s a great choice for rock, metal, and funk music styles.
What We Like:
- The oil layer really tames unwanted ringing.
- Two plies make it strong and last longer.
- It gives you that cool, old-school rock sound.
- The Level 360 collar fits perfectly on your drum.
- It’s made right here in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The black color might not match every drum kit.
- Some drummers might prefer a head with more sustain.
If you want a drum head that delivers a powerful, focused sound with minimal fuss, the Evans Hydraulic is a strong contender. It’s built to perform and capture that iconic vintage tone.
4. TUOREN 1 Pair Tongue Drum Mallets Metal Steel Head Drum Sticks with Rubber Handle Ethereal Drumstick Percussion Sticks Hammer for Glockenspiel Xylophone Chime Woodblock and Bells 8.7inch
Rating: 8.6/10
Unleash a world of clear, bright sounds with the TUOREN 1 Pair Tongue Drum Mallets. These mallets are designed to bring out the best in your percussion instruments, offering a comfortable grip and durable construction for hours of musical exploration.
What We Like:
- Clear, Bright Sound: The steel drum hammer head makes a crisp and lively sound. This helps your instruments ring out beautifully.
- Comfortable to Hold: The rubber handle feels good in your hand. It’s also tough and won’t wear out easily, so you can play for a long time.
- Versatile Use: These sticks work great with many instruments. Think bells, glockenspiels, xylophones, and even woodblocks. They are perfect for adding to your music.
- Great for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned drummer or just starting out, these mallets are a fantastic addition to your gear. They are easy to use for anyone.
- Just the Right Size: Each mallet is 8.7 inches long, with a metal rod of 8.07 inches and a 0.66-inch steel ball head. This size makes them easy to control.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited to Steel Heads: The steel heads provide a bright sound, but some players might prefer softer heads for different tones on certain instruments.
- Specific Length: While the 8.7-inch length is good for many, very advanced players might prefer a slightly different length for specific techniques.
These TUOREN mallets are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add bright, clear tones to their percussion playing. They offer a great combination of sound quality and comfortable handling.
5. MECCANIXITY 8 Inch Drum Head Drum Skin Sound Controlled PET Material
Rating: 9.1/10
Are you a drummer looking for a reliable and versatile drum head? The MECCANIXITY 8 Inch Drum Head Drum Skin in Beige might be just what you need. This pack comes with two drum heads, made from durable PET material, and they promise good sound quality and feel. They are designed to fit snugly onto your drum shell, making the replacement and tuning process straightforward.
What We Like:
- These drum heads are very versatile and work for all kinds of music.
- They offer good sound quality, which is important for any drummer.
- The drum heads have a good feel when you play them.
- Replacing your old drum head and tuning the new one is simple.
- The proper arc design helps the head fit tightly and pull evenly.
- You get two drum heads in one pack, which is a great value.
What Could Be Improved:
- There might be a slight difference in color between the actual product and the pictures.
If you’re a working drummer needing a dependable drum head for various musical styles, these MECCANIXITY heads are a solid choice. They offer a good balance of quality, ease of use, and value for money.
Crushing Your Sound: The Drum Heads for Metal Buying Guide
Are you a metal drummer looking to unleash a thunderous roar from your kit? Choosing the right drum heads is super important. They are the part of your drum that you hit, and they make all the difference in your sound. This guide helps you find the best ones to make your drumming heavy and powerful.
Key Features to Look For
Durability
Metal drumming is intense. You need heads that can take a beating without ripping. Look for heads made from strong materials that can handle fast, hard hits. Thicker heads are usually tougher.
Attack and Tone
Metal needs a sharp, clear sound. This is called “attack.” You want drum heads that give you a strong “crack” when you hit them. The “tone” is the overall sound. For metal, you often want a bright, punchy tone that cuts through loud guitars.
Sustain and Ring
Sustain is how long a note rings out. Too much sustain can make your drums sound muddy. Metal drummers often prefer heads that have a controlled sustain. Some heads are designed to reduce unwanted ringing, giving you a tighter sound.
Tuning Stability
You want your drum heads to stay in tune. Constantly retuning can stop your flow. Good quality heads hold their tuning well, even with heavy playing.
Important Materials
Drum heads are mostly made from Mylar. This is a strong plastic. Different types of Mylar and how they are made change the sound.
Single-Ply Heads
These are thinner and made of one layer of Mylar. They give a bright, open sound with lots of attack. They are good for fast playing but can be less durable for very aggressive styles.
Two-Ply Heads
These have two layers of Mylar. They are thicker and more durable. They give a fatter, warmer tone with more low-end. They also have less sustain and more control, which many metal drummers like.
Coated Heads
Some heads have a coating on top. This coating can change the tone, making it warmer and smoother. It also helps with brushwork, but for metal, it’s more about the impact of sticks.
Heads with Dampening
Many heads for metal have built-in dampening. This can be a ring of material around the edge. This ring helps control overtones and unwanted ringing, giving a focused sound.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Thickness
Thicker heads are usually more durable. They also tend to have a fatter sound. Thinner heads have more attack but can wear out faster.
Ply Count
As mentioned, two-ply heads are generally better for metal’s demands because they are tougher and offer more controlled sustain. Single-ply heads can work for some styles but might not be robust enough for extreme playing.
Construction Quality
How the head is made matters. Look for heads with strong bearing edges. This is the edge of the head that sits on the drum rim. A well-made bearing edge helps the head seal properly and tune evenly.
Brand Reputation
Well-known drum head companies often use better materials and have more experience. They make heads designed for specific sounds and playing styles, including metal.
User Experience and Use Cases
Metal drummers use drum heads for many reasons. They want their drums to sound powerful and clear in a mix of loud instruments. Aggressive playing styles need heads that last.
For Fast Blast Beats
If you play fast blast beats, you need heads with great attack and durability. Two-ply heads with some dampening are a popular choice. They give you the power without sounding messy.
For Heavy Riffs and Grooves
For slower, heavier grooves, you might want a slightly warmer, more powerful sound. Two-ply heads can provide this. You still want good attack so your kick drum and snare cut through.
For Studio Recording
In the studio, you need a clear, defined sound. Heads that offer good tuning stability and controlled sustain are essential. This makes mixing easier.
For Live Performance
Live, your drums need to be loud and clear. Durable heads that hold their tuning under pressure are key. You don’t want to stop a show to change a drum head.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of drum head for heavy metal?
A: Two-ply drum heads are usually best for heavy metal. They offer more durability and a controlled, punchy sound that cuts through loud music.
Q: Should I use coated or uncoated drum heads for metal?
A: For metal, uncoated (clear) heads are often preferred because they give a brighter, more cutting attack. Some drummers might use coated heads for a slightly warmer tone.
Q: How do I make my drums sound louder for metal?
A: Using two-ply heads, ensuring they are tuned properly, and using heavier sticks can all help your drums sound louder and more powerful.
Q: What does “attack” mean for drum heads?
A: “Attack” is the sharp, initial sound you hear when you hit the drum. Metal drummers want a strong attack so their drums sound clear and punchy.
Q: How important is sustain in metal drumming?
A: Controlled sustain is important. Too much sustain can make drums sound muddy. Metal drummers often choose heads that reduce unwanted ringing.
Q: Can single-ply heads be used for metal?
A: Yes, some single-ply heads can be used, especially for styles that need a very bright, open sound. However, they might not be as durable for very aggressive playing.
Q: What is the benefit of a dampening ring on a drum head?
A: A dampening ring helps control overtones and ringing. This gives the drum a more focused, tighter sound that is good for metal.
Q: How often should I change my drum heads for metal?
A: This depends on how hard you play. For intense metal drumming, you might need to change heads every few months or when they start to look worn or sound less punchy.
Q: Do different drum sizes need different heads for metal?
A: Yes. Smaller drums like snares might benefit from heads with more attack, while larger toms might need heads that offer more body and sustain control.
Q: Where can I find good drum heads for metal?
A: You can find them at music stores, both online and in person. Popular brands known for metal drum heads include Evans, Remo, and Aquarian.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.