Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead Review: The Ultimate Cure for Unruly 13-Inch Tom Overtones
Every drummer knows the struggle of the “middle child” in their kit—the 13-inch tom. While 10 and 12-inch toms sing with clear, high-pitched resonance and 14 or 16-inch floor toms provide that satisfying low-end thud, the 13-inch rack tom often becomes a nightmare to tune. We have spent countless hours in the studio and on stage wrestling with “wonky” overtones and a decay that either lasts forever or dies instantly. If you have ever felt that your 13-inch tom was more of a headache than a musical instrument, you are not alone. This is exactly where the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead enters the frame. Finding a head that balances the natural resonance of the shell with controlled dampening is crucial; without it, your drum kit sounds disjointed, and your recordings will suffer from muddy frequencies that no EQ can fully fix.
I remember a particular session where my 13-inch maple tom kept producing a high-pitched “ping” that drove the sound engineer crazy. We tried moongels, tape, and even wallets, but nothing worked without killing the drum’s life. It wasn’t until I switched to the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead that the drum finally sat perfectly in the mix. In this review, we are going to dive deep into why this specific head is a game-changer for this difficult drum size. Before we get into the nitty-gritty, you might want to see its full feature set and user reviews to understand the technical foundation we are building on.
- 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.
What to Consider Before Buying a Drum Set Tom-Tom Drumheads
A Drum Set Tom-Tom Drumheads is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for shaping the fundamental voice of your kit. The drumhead is the primary vibrating surface; it determines the attack, the sustain, and the overall “warmth” of your sound. Choosing the wrong head can make a $3,000 boutique kit sound like a cardboard box, while the right head can make an entry-level kit punch well above its weight class.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing unwanted ringing and harmonic “clutter,” particularly in live environments or home studios where acoustic control is limited. It is perfect for rock, metal, and fusion drummers who need a focused, aggressive attack. However, it might not be suitable for those who play traditional jazz or orchestral music, where maximum wide-open resonance and sensitive brush work are required. For those players, a single-ply, un-dampened head might be a better fit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: It sounds obvious, but 13 inches is a specific “intermediate” size. You must ensure your hoop and bearing edge are in good condition because a 2-ply head like this requires a flat, even surface to seat properly. A 13-inch head cannot be “stretched” to fit a 14-inch drum, so double-check your shell diameter before buying.
- Capacity/Performance: Look at the ply thickness. The Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead uses two plies of 7mil film. This 14mil total thickness provides high durability and a deeper pitch than single-ply heads. The performance metric here is the “SST” (Sound Shaping Technology) which targets specific frequencies to balance sustain.
- Materials & Durability: Clear heads generally offer more “crack” and attack than coated versions. Since this is a synthetic plastic material with an integrated damping ring, you should look for how that ring is attached. High-quality construction ensures the dampening doesn’t vibrate or peel off over time, which is a common failure point in cheaper dampened heads.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Tuning is the biggest hurdle for most drummers. Look for features like “Level 360” technology, which helps the head sit flush against the bearing edge. This ensures that you don’t have to “crank” the lugs just to get the head to respond, extending the life of your hardware and the head itself.
Understanding these variables is the first step toward a better drum sound. While the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead is an excellent choice for those seeking control and punch, 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:
- TWO PLIES: EC2S Clear heads use two plies of 7mil film for optimized tone, length of sustain, and ease of tuning.
- COATED TOM HEAD: This tom head is coated to deliver additional warmth, focus, and depth.
- TWO PLIES: Evans G2 heads are made with two plies of 7mil film.
First Impressions and Key Features of the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead
When you first pull the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead out of its protective packaging, the first thing you notice is the “SST” ring. Unlike some heads that use a thick, glued-on plastic ring, the EC2S features a translucent, silver-patterned ring that looks integrated into the film. It feels premium and purposeful. The “Level 360” collar is also immediately apparent; the hoop of the drumhead has a steeper, more rounded slope than traditional heads, which promises to make the initial “seating” process much smoother. You can check the latest price and availability to see how this premium construction fits into your budget.
In terms of feel, the two plies of 7mil film provide a stiff but responsive surface. It doesn’t feel “mushy” like some heavy-duty heads, but it certainly feels more substantial than a standard G1 or Ambassador. When held up to the light, the clear film is pristine, and the SST ring’s variable thickness is visible—a testament to Evans’ engineering approach where the dampening is customized for each specific drum size. This isn’t a “one size fits all” dampening solution; it is tailored for the 13-inch diameter.
Key Benefits
- Extraordinary ease of tuning thanks to the Level 360 collar design.
- Built-in Sound Shaping Technology (SST) removes harsh overtones without killing sustain.
- Dual 7mil plies offer excellent durability for heavy hitters.
- Focused attack that cuts through dense guitar mixes easily.
Limitations
- Might feel “too thick” for drummers who prefer a very sensitive, thin-head response.
- The internal damping ring can occasionally delaminate under extreme temperature changes.
A Deep Dive into the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead’s Performance
The Magic of Sound Shaping Technology (SST)
We found that the standout feature of the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead is undeniably the Sound Shaping Technology. Most drumheads that attempt to control overtones do so by adding mass uniformly across the head or by sticking a giant muffle ring on top. Evans takes a different approach. The SST rings are actually printed onto the underside of the head, and their width and weight vary depending on the size of the drum. On this 13-inch model, we noticed that the ring is perfectly calculated to kill those specific “boxy” frequencies that 13-inch shells often produce.
In our testing, the result was a drum that sounded “pre-EQ’d.” When we struck the drum, the initial attack was sharp and clear, followed by a warm fundamental note that decayed smoothly. One user review mentioned that it “takes the excessive ringing out of the toms,” and we couldn’t agree more. It doesn’t make the drum sound “dead”—a common fear with 2-ply heads—but rather it makes the drum sound “expensive.” It isolates the “good” resonance and suppresses the “bad” harmonic interference. This makes it a feature that really sets it apart from standard double-ply heads that often require additional tape or gels to sound this controlled.
Level 360 Technology: Tuning Made Easy
If you have ever struggled with a drumhead that won’t sit flat on the bearing edge, you know the frustration of “tuning against the head” rather than “tuning the drum.” The Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead features the Level 360 collar, which we found to be a revolutionary improvement in drumhead design. Most heads have a flat collar that requires significant tension to “break in” and conform to the drum’s edge. The Level 360 design has a more vertical slope, allowing the head to sit flush even at finger-tightness.
During our setup, we were able to get a clear, consistent pitch across all lugs in about half the time it usually takes. We confirmed this with user feedback stating, “the drum tunes up very easily.” Because the head sits so perfectly on the shell, the pitch range is also extended. We could tune the 13-inch tom surprisingly low for a “fat” rock sound without the head becoming flappy, and we could crank it up for a fusion “pop” without it sounding choked. This versatility is rare in a head that is technically categorized as “dampened.” You can explore the tuning benefits further here to see if this solves your current setup frustrations.
Sonic Profile: Attack, Sustain, and Projection
The Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead is designed for drummers who want to be heard. Being a clear head, it naturally has more high-end “bite” than its coated counterpart. When combined with the two plies of 7mil film, you get a sound that is incredibly punchy. We found that in a live setting, the 13-inch tom equipped with this head cut through the wall of sound created by two distorted guitars and a loud bassist. It has a “modern” sound—very clean, very focused, and very powerful.
One user noted that “my 13″ tom still rings out quite a bit with this head,” which is an important distinction. This is not a “dry” head like an Evans Hydraulic. It still has plenty of sustain, but the sustain is musical rather than chaotic. The 13-inch size is notoriously difficult because it often has too much sustain for its own good; the EC2S manages that sustain so that the drum sounds full and robust without echoing for ten seconds. For anyone playing 6-ply maple or birch shells, this head really makes the wood “sing” by highlighting the shell’s natural character while keeping the overtones under a tight leash.
Durability and Build Quality: Made in the USA
We’ve put these heads through their paces, and the durability is impressive. The two 7mil plies are robust enough to withstand heavy hitters who use 2B sticks and have a “through the drum” striking technique. Because the SST ring is mounted on the underside, you don’t have to worry about your sticks catching on it or the ring flying off during a high-energy performance. Evans manufactures these in the USA, and the quality control is generally top-notch.
However, we must address one point brought up in a user review about the internal ring “unsticking” over time. While we didn’t experience this during our several months of testing, it is something to keep an eye on if you live in an extremely humid or hot environment. That said, compared to the competition, the adhesion of the EC2S rings is some of the best in the industry. For most drummers, these heads will last through months of heavy gigging before they start to lose their “brightness.” To see the longevity benefits for yourself, read more about the construction materials used in this model.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among the drumming community is that the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead is a “problem solver.” Most users who switch to this head do so because they were tired of the inconsistent ringing of standard heads. One enthusiastic drummer claimed it is “by far the best drumhead on the market,” highlighting how it transformed their kit’s sound from amateur to professional instantly. Another user specifically mentioned the upgrade from Remo Emperors, stating they “couldn’t be happier” with how the Evans head sits on the bearing edge.
On the flip side, some users find the head “too thick.” This is a valid critique for those who play with a very light touch; if you are playing quiet jazz or ghost-note-heavy grooves, you might find that the two plies require a bit more force to “activate” the shell than a single-ply G1. There was also a report of the SST ring delaminating, though this appears to be a rare manufacturing defect rather than a common flaw. Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many drummers stating they “will never go back” to their previous brands after experiencing the ease of tuning and the focused sound profile of the EC2S series.
Comparing the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead to Its Top 3 Alternatives
While the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead is a powerhouse, it’s essential to see how it compares to other industry standards to ensure you’re making the right choice for your specific genre and playing style.
1. Evans Heavyweight Coated 14-Inch Reverse Dot Snare Drumhead
- COATED DRUMHEAD: This coated drumhead is made for use as a drum set snare batter.
- FOR DURABILITY, FOCUS, ATTACK: Evans Heavyweight snare drumheads are made with two plies of 10mil film, plus a 3mil Reverse dot in the center of the head for even more durability, focus, and attack.
The Evans Heavyweight Coated 14-Inch Reverse Dot Snare Drumhead is a completely different beast, designed primarily for snares rather than toms. While the EC2S focuses on balancing sustain on a tom, the Heavyweight is about pure, unadulterated durability and a bone-crushing “thwack.” It uses two 10mil plies, making it much thicker than the 7mil plies of the EC2S. If you are a metal drummer who breaks heads every week, you might want a Heavyweight for your snare, but for a 13-inch tom, it would likely be too “dead.” The EC2S is the better choice for toms where you still want some musicality and tone.
2. Remo PP-0970-BE Emperor Clear Tom Drumhead Pack
- Clear Emperor heads are made with two free-floating plays of 7 mil Mylar film
- Features consistent open tones
This Remo pack is the most direct competitor to the EC2S series. Remo Emperors are the “industry standard” for clear 2-ply heads. However, unlike the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead, standard Emperors do not have integrated damping rings or the Level 360 collar. In our experience, Remo heads have a slightly “brighter” and “more open” sound initially, but they are significantly harder to tune and often require Moongel to achieve the same focus that the Evans EC2S has built-in. If you enjoy the “classic” rock sound and don’t mind spending extra time tuning, Remo is great. If you want a “modern” sound with zero-fuss tuning, stick with Evans.
3. Evans Onyx 14 Inch Tom Drumhead
- COATED TOM HEAD: This tom head is frost coated with a unique translucent coating to deliver additional warmth, focus, and depth.
- TWO PLIES: Evans Onyx heads are made with two 7.5mil plies, coated for enhanced durability.
The Evans Onyx 14 Inch Tom Drumhead offers a darker, matte-black aesthetic and a different sonic texture. While the EC2S is clear and bright, the Onyx is micro-coated for increased low-end warmth and a slightly shorter sustain. The Onyx uses two 7.5mil plies, making it just a hair thicker than the EC2S. We recommend the Onyx for drummers who want their kit to look incredibly sleek and who prefer a “thuddy,” dark sound. However, for a 13-inch tom that needs to maintain some clarity and “cut,” the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead usually provides a more balanced frequency response.
Final Verdict: Is the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead Worth It?
After putting the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead through its paces in various tuning ranges and musical contexts, our verdict is a resounding yes—especially if you struggle with 13-inch tom overtones. This head successfully bridges the gap between a wide-open resonant head and a completely dampened “dead” head. The Level 360 technology makes tuning a joy rather than a chore, and the SST rings provide a level of focus that usually requires external accessories. While it might be “too much head” for ultra-sensitive jazz playing, for rock, pop, gospel, and metal, it is arguably one of the best investments you can make for your kit’s sound.
In summary, if you want a drumhead that is durable, incredibly easy to tune, and sounds like a professional recording right out of the box, you cannot go wrong here. It solves the specific harmonic issues of the 13-inch tom while providing a punchy, modern attack that will make your kit stand out in any mix. Don’t let your middle tom be the weak link in your setup any longer. We highly recommend that you grab the Evans EC2S Clear 13 Inch Tom Drumhead today and finally hear what your drum shell is truly capable of.
Last update on 2026-07-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API