Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System Review: The Ultimate Professional Solution for Punch, Control, and Versatility
If you have ever spent hours behind a kit, you know the frustration of a “boingy” or “papery” bass drum. I remember my early days of recording in a makeshift studio; no matter how I tuned my kick, it sounded like a basketball hitting a gym floor. I tried the old-school tricks: stuffing an entire pillow inside, taping down diapers, and even using heavy blankets. While those methods “killed” the resonance, they also killed the life of the drum. You lose that chest-thumping “whump” and replace it with a dead, thuddy sound that lacks any musicality. Solving this isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about the feel under your foot. When the head doesn’t respond correctly, your double-kick patterns feel sluggish, and your dynamics disappear.
This is exactly why products like the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System were developed. Modern drummers need a solution that offers the “focus” of a muffled drum without sacrificing the professional tone and volume of a high-quality shell. Without a specialized head, you are constantly fighting your gear rather than playing it. We wanted a head that could adapt to a small club gig one night and a high-decibel metal session the next. After extensive testing, we’ve found that the EMAD2 is designed to be the definitive answer to these sonic complications.
- EMAD SYSTEM– The Evans Clear Bass Drum Head has an externally mounted adjustable damping system to control the attack and focus of the drum head by choosing one of two removable foam rings. The...
- LEVEL 360 TECHNOLOGY – A Level 360 collar allows the clear bass drum head to seat itself properly and in turn provides a head that is easier to tune and a wider tonal range for a sound that is...
What to Consider Before Buying a Professional Bass Drum Head
A Bass Drum Drumhead is more than just a piece of plastic stretched over a wooden hoop; it’s the primary voice of your entire drum kit. It acts as the “key solution” for defining your band’s rhythmic foundation. A high-quality batter head allows you to project power while maintaining enough control to prevent muddying up the mix for the bassist. If you are recording, the right head can save hours in post-production EQ. Essentially, the head is responsible for the “attack” (the initial click of the beater) and the “sustain” (how long the drum rings). Balancing these two is the holy grail of drum tech.
The ideal customer for the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System is a versatile drummer who plays multiple genres—think a session player who jumps from jazz-fusion to hard rock. It’s also perfect for the “heavy hitter” who constantly breaks single-ply heads. However, it might not be suitable for the absolute purist who wants a wide-open, 1920s jazz “boom” with zero muffling, or those who prefer the extremely soft, pillowy feel of a calfskin-style head. For those users, a single-ply, un-muffled head might be a more traditional, albeit more difficult to control, alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Ply Count and Thickness: The number of layers (plies) determines durability and tone. A 2-ply head like this one offers significantly more “thud” and longevity than a 1-ply. If you play with a heavy foot or use wood/plastic beaters, the added thickness is a non-negotiable requirement for preventing premature breakage.
- Damping Mechanisms: Consider whether you want internal or external damping. Internal rings are permanent, while the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System features an external sleeve. This allows you to change the sound of your drum in seconds without removing the head, which is a massive advantage during a live set.
- Tuning Range & Rim Technology: Not all heads seat properly on every drum hoop. You should look for “Level 360” or similar technology that ensures the head makes even contact with the bearing edge. This makes the drum much easier to tune, especially at low tensions where most kick drums “live.”
- Ease of Maintenance: Consider how the head reacts to temperature changes and the physical wear of the beater. A head that comes with a reinforcement patch is always a plus, as it prevents the beater from “eating” through the film over months of heavy practice.
By understanding these factors, you can move away from “guessing” and start building a kit that sounds professional from the first stroke. Before we dive into the specific features of this model, see its full feature set and user reviews to understand why it’s a staple in the industry.
While the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- EMAD SYSTEM– The Evans Clear Bass Drum Head has an externally mounted adjustable damping system to control the attack and focus of the drum head by choosing one of two removable foam rings. The...
- 22" resonant drum head made using a single ply of 7mil film
First Impressions: Unboxing the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System
When I first pulled the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System out of its packaging, the first thing I noticed was the sheer build quality. This isn’t a flimsy piece of film; the 2-ply construction (7mil and 10mil plies) gives it a substantial weight that screams durability. The “Clear” finish is pristine, allowing you to see the internal shell of your drum, which is always a nice aesthetic touch for those with high-end wood finishes. check the latest price and availability to see if this premium build fits your current budget.
The standout feature, of course, is the EMAD (Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping) plastic tray attached to the front. It feels securely fused to the head, and the kit includes two different foam rings: a thin one for more resonance and a wider one for a tighter, focused “pop.” Unlike previous versions of the EMAD system from years ago, the modern tray feels more robust and less prone to “buzzing.” Assembly is non-existent—you simply seat the head, tighten your lugs, and slide in your chosen foam ring. Compared to market competitors like the Powerstroke series, the EMAD2 feels much more “modular.” You aren’t stuck with one sound; you have three (no ring, thin ring, thick ring) right out of the box.
Key Benefits
- Incredibly easy to tune thanks to the Level 360 technology.
- Versatile sound options with two interchangeable foam damping rings.
- Extreme durability with a 2-ply construction that withstands heavy hitters.
- Eliminates the need for internal pillows or messy tape on the head.
Limitations
- The plastic EMAD sleeve can eventually crack after years of extremely hard use.
- May provide “too much” damping for drummers seeking a wide-open, vintage jazz tone.
Deep Dive: Performance Analysis of the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System
The Genius of the EMAD System: Real-Time Acoustic Control
The core of the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System is, as the name suggests, the damping system. In my testing, this feature is a total game-changer for live performances. Imagine you are playing a room with a lot of natural reverb—the kick drum can quickly become a muddy mess. With the EMAD2, I can simply reach down and swap the thin foam ring for the wider one. Instantly, the overtones are reigned in, and the “focus” of the drum increases. a feature that really sets it apart from traditional heads is that you never have to take the drum apart to achieve this change.
We found that the wider ring creates a “pre-EQ’d” sound that sound engineers absolutely love. It provides a sharp, defined attack—that “click” that helps the kick cut through a wall of guitars—while maintaining a deep, low-end fundamental. One user noted that they use it for Spanish Christian music, where a punchy but clean tone is essential. I personally found that even without a pillow inside the drum, the EMAD2 provided enough control to satisfy most studio requirements. The foam sits snugly in the tray and does not rattle, which was a concern with older iterations of this technology. It truly bridges the gap between a “raw” drum and a “produced” drum sound.
Durability and Feel: The 2-Ply Advantage
If you are a drummer who likes to lay into the kick, durability is your primary concern. The Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System uses two plies of film—an outer 7mil ply and an inner 10mil ply. This combination provides a massive amount of “beef” to the sound. During my sessions, I noticed that the head has a slightly more “solid” rebound compared to single-ply heads. It doesn’t feel “mushy”; instead, it provides a firm surface that helps with double-bass clarity. You can invest in a long-lasting drum head here and likely won’t need a replacement for quite some time.
We also confirmed the longevity mentioned in user reviews. One drummer mentioned their son “busted through” an alternative brand, but the EMAD2 held up under the same pressure. Evans even includes a clear reinforcement patch in the box. I highly recommend applying this patch immediately. It further protects the film from the friction of the beater and adds a tiny bit more “click” to the attack. Even after weeks of heavy-footed playing, the head showed no signs of “pitting” or losing its tension. For touring drummers who can’t afford a head failure mid-set, this 2-ply construction is a safety net.
Level 360 Technology: Tuning Made Simple
Tuning a 22-inch bass drum can be a nightmare, especially if the hoop isn’t perfectly true. Evans’ “Level 360” technology is featured on the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System, and it’s not just a marketing gimmick. The collar of the head is designed with a steeper curve, allowing it to sit flat against the bearing edge from the moment you put it on. In my experience, I was able to get a “wrinkle-free” tone with just finger-tightening the lugs and a single turn of the drum key. This is a massive relief for beginners and pros alike.
The wider tonal range means you can tune this head incredibly low for that “modern metal” thud, or tighten it up for a more “funky” bounce. As one reviewer mentioned, on a 20″ or 22″ drum, this head makes the shell sound “much bigger than it is.” This is because the Level 360 collar ensures the vibrations are transferred efficiently to the shell, maximizing the resonance of the wood. We found that it stays in tune remarkably well, even under the physical vibration of a loud stage environment. You won’t find yourself reaching for the drum key every three songs.
Genre Versatility: From Church Bands to Metal Core
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System is its ability to adapt to different musical environments. I tested this head with a maple shell and varied my playing style. For softer, “round” tones suited for gospel or jazz-fusion, the head responded with warmth. When I switched to a plastic beater and played aggressive rock, the attack was biting and aggressive. grab this versatile head for your kit if you find yourself playing in different bands throughout the week.
User feedback confirms this versatility. One drummer playing in a church band noted that they finally got rid of the “rubbery” or “boingy” sound they had with traditional heads. Another drummer highlighted its effectiveness in a studio setting for bringing down decibel levels while maintaining a professional “pop.” Whether you want a “chest-resounding whump” or a “soft boom,” the combination of the 2-ply film and the adjustable rings makes it possible. It’s a “chameleon” head that allows the natural character of your bass drum wood—be it maple, birch, or mahogany—to shine through while keeping the overtones under strict control.
What Other Users Are Saying
The consensus among the drumming community is overwhelmingly positive, with many “converts” coming from other major brands. One long-time “Remo guy” admitted that they find themselves coming back to the EMAD2 because it makes their Gretsch and Ayotte drums sound “rounder and deeper” than a standard Powerstroke 3. This sentiment is common; drummers love the “huge funky tone” that doesn’t sacrifice feel. Another user highlighted the value for money, stating it’s a “smart investment” for any serious musician.
However, it’s not without its specific critiques. Some users noted that while the damping is excellent, it doesn’t entirely replace the “chest-thumping” feel of a heavily muffled internal cavity (like a down-filled pillow) for those who want a completely “dead” sound. One user mentioned they still kept a small liner inside the drum for that specific feel. On the durability front, while the head itself is a tank, a few users over the years have noted that the plastic tray holding the foam can occasionally buzz if it becomes loose or if the drum’s hoop is warped. Overall, though, the feedback is clear: this is a top-tier professional head that solves more problems than it creates.
Comparing the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System to Alternatives
1. Evans EC2S Clear Rock Tom Drum Heads
- TWO PLIES: EC2S Clear heads use two plies of 7mil film for optimized tone, length of sustain, and ease of tuning.
- SOUND SHAPING TECHNOLOGY: This drumhead features Sound Shaping Technology (SST) for a well-balanced sound and focused attack.
While the EMAD2 focuses on the bass drum, the Evans EC2S is the perfect companion for your toms. These heads use a similar “SST” (Sound Shaping Technology) ring on the underside to control overtones without the need for external foam. If you love the “pre-EQ’d” and focused sound of the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System, equipping your toms with EC2S heads will give your entire kit a cohesive, professional studio sound. They are 2-ply and incredibly durable, making them ideal for rock and metal players who want a consistent “attack-heavy” tone across the board.
2. Aquarian Super-Kick II Drumhead Pack
- Clear super-kick II
- Two 7mil plies
The Aquarian Super-Kick II is perhaps the most direct competitor to the EMAD2. It also features a 2-ply construction and an integrated muffling system. However, the key difference is that the Super-Kick II’s muffling (the “Floating Muffle Ring”) is internal and fixed. You cannot adjust the damping level without changing the head entirely. Some drummers prefer the “set it and forget it” nature of the Aquarian, but if you value the ability to tune your resonance on the fly, the EMAD2’s external system is superior. Both heads are legendary for their “low-end punch,” but the EMAD2 wins on versatility.
3. Evans EQ3 22 Inch Resonant Bass Drum Head
- 22" resonant drum head made using a single ply of 7mil film
- A fixed, internal overtone control ring is made to be microphone friendly, from the studio to arena
It is important to remember that the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System is a batter head (the side you hit). To get the best out of it, you need a high-quality resonant head. The Evans EQ3 Resonant is the industry standard “front” head. It features an offset 5-inch microphone port and an internal overtone control ring. Using the EMAD2 on the back and the EQ3 on the front is the “secret sauce” for many professional drummers. It provides the perfect balance of air movement, sustain control, and microphone placement ease. If you are upgrading your batter head, consider this a mandatory partner for the full experience.
The Final Verdict: Is the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System Worth It?
After putting the Evans EMAD2 22″ Clear Bass Drum Head with Adjustable Damping System through its paces, the answer is a resounding yes. It is one of the few drum heads that actually lives up to the hype of its “system.” The combination of Level 360 technology for easy tuning, the 2-ply film for extreme durability, and the EMAD rings for sonic flexibility creates a product that is nearly impossible to beat. It transforms an average-sounding kick drum into a professional instrument with minimal effort. Whether you are tired of stuffing laundry into your drum or simply want a more consistent “punch” for your live shows, this head delivers.
While it might be slightly overkill for a vintage jazz enthusiast, for 90% of modern drummers, it is the gold standard. It saves time in the studio, energy on the stage, and money in the long run due to its rugged construction. Don’t settle for a thin, uninspiring sound that gets lost in the mix. Take control of your low end and experience the difference that a truly engineered drum head can make. upgrade your kick drum sound today and feel the power of the EMAD2 for yourself.
Last update on 2026-06-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API