Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head Review: The Ultimate Solution for Controlled, Punchy Low-End
Every drummer has been there: you sit behind a beautiful kit, you bury the beater into the kick drum, and instead of a satisfying, chest-thumping “thud,” you get a resonant, boomy “boing” that rings out for days. Achieving that perfect balance between a deep low-end and a controlled, focused attack is the “holy grail” of drum tuning. Without the right resonant head, your bass drum often lacks the “mix-ready” sound required for modern rock, gospel, or pop. If you don’t solve this resonance issue, your kick drum will fight against the bass guitar and clutter your overall sound. This is exactly why we spent weeks evaluating the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head. We wanted to see if this industry-standard head could truly provide the “REMAD” (Resonant EMAD) experience that promises to tame overtones without killing the drum’s soul.
- SINGLE PLY FILM AND FOAM DAMPENING RING: Evans EMAD Resonant series offers better control of overtones and enhances pitch, focus, and attack. Ideal for rock and gospel music
- IDEAL RESONANT HEAD FOR EMAD BATTER HEADS: Perfect for use with the Evans EMAD series batter heads to create the perfect drum sound
What to Consider Before Buying a Bass Drum Head
A bass drum head is more than just a circular piece of plastic; it is the primary filter for your drum’s voice. It’s a key solution for drummers who need to manipulate air movement and vibration to achieve a specific genre-appropriate tone. Choosing the wrong head can make a high-end drum sound like a cardboard box, or worse, an uncontrollable cannon that feedback loops through every microphone on stage.
The ideal customer for this type of product is the gigging or recording drummer who plays styles requiring a “wet” and punchy sound—think modern rock, metal, or gospel. It is perfect for those who want to avoid stuffing their drum with unsightly pillows or blankets. However, it might not be suitable for jazz purists or “old-school” enthusiasts who prefer a wide-open, high-pitched, and singing resonant tone. For those players, a single-ply head without internal damping would be a better fit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Ensure you are measuring the actual diameter of your drum shell, not the hoop. A 22-inch head like the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head is designed for the most common kick drum size, but double-checking is essential to avoid seating issues. A properly sized head should drop onto the bearing edge with minimal friction.
- Porting & Microphone Access: Do you plan to mic your drum? A ported head allows for easy microphone placement inside the shell, which is vital for capturing attack. Before you buy, check the latest price and availability of ported options like the REMAD, which includes a reinforced 4-inch port to prevent tearing.
- Materials & Durability: Most modern heads use Mylar or similar polyester films. The thickness (measured in “mils”) determines the durability and pitch. A single-ply head offers more resonance, while a double-ply head is more durable. The REMAD uses a high-quality film combined with a foam dampening ring to bridge the gap between durability and tonal control.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to tune the head. Some heads are “finicky” and require perfect tensioning to sound good. Features like Evans’ Level 360 Technology (which we found present in this model) ensure the head sits flat, making the tuning process much faster for beginners and pros alike.
While the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head 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:
- 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 and Key Features of the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head
Unboxing the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head immediately signals quality. The black finish is sleek and professional, providing a “chic” look that upgrades the aesthetics of any kit. When we first handled the head, the fixed black plastic control ring felt sturdy—much more reliable than some aftermarket dampening kits we’ve used in the past. It’s designed specifically to complement the EMAD batter head series, creating a sonically matched pair that simplifies the “drum sound” equation.
One thing we noticed right away was the 4-inch offset mic port. It features a protective plastic sleeve that isn’t just for show; it focuses the air movement and protects the edge of the hole from microphone stand “accidents.” Comparing this to previous versions, the newer “revised” model has moved the port slightly lower (around the 4 o’clock position), which we found to be a more ergonomic spot for modern microphone stands. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to understand how this layout benefits different kit setups.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional low-end focus with a pre-damped, “wet” thump.
- Reinforced 4-inch port protects the head and enhances microphone attack.
- High-quality black film provides a sleek, professional stage appearance.
- Level 360 Technology ensures easy seating and fast tuning.
Limitations
- The internal foam ring is now fixed, offering less customization than older versions.
- The black finish may show scuffs or dust more easily than clear heads.
Deep Dive: Performance Analysis of the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head
Tonal Character and Low-End Response
In our testing, the standout feature of the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head is its ability to accentuate the “sub” frequencies of a 22-inch drum. When we paired this with a standard EMAD batter head, the result was a massive, chest-pounding low end that felt controlled rather than muddy. This is largely due to the single ply of 10-mil film combined with the internal foam dampening ring. Unlike a standard “open” resonant head that rings out with a high-pitched sustain, the REMAD shortens the note.
We found that this head eliminates the need for internal muffling in many cases. I personally removed the small pillow I usually keep in my kick drum, and the REMAD handled the overtones perfectly on its own. This allows the drum shell to vibrate more naturally while the head manages the air. The pitch is focused, making it much easier to find the “sweet spot” where the drum feels like it’s pushing a wall of air. To get this specific sound, you can order the REMAD for your kit and hear the difference in your next practice session.
The Integrated Dampening System (REMAD Technology)
The “REMAD” acronym stands for Resonant EMAD (Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping), though on this resonant version, the damping is internally mounted. This is a feature that really sets it apart from traditional ported heads. The fixed black plastic control ring houses a foam insert that sits against the film. In our evaluation, this design significantly reduced the “basketball bounce” sound that many ported heads suffer from.
There has been some discussion among users regarding the “revised” version of this head. Previously, Evans offered interchangeable foam rings for the REMAD, similar to the batter version. However, the current model features a fixed ring. While some “tinkers” might miss the customization, we found the fixed ring to be more durable for long-term use. There’s no risk of the foam falling out during a high-vibration performance, which is a common complaint with older, removable systems. This consistency is a major win for the working drummer who needs a reliable sound every night.
The 4-Inch Offset Port and Mic Performance
For the recording engineer or the live sound tech, the port on the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head is a godsend. Cutting your own hole in a drumhead is a recipe for disaster; one small nick and the whole head can split under tension. Evans has solved this by factory-installing a 4-inch port with a plastic sleeve. We tested several microphones—including the Shure Beta 52A and the AKG D112—and they all fit through the port with ease.
Beyond just access, the port changes the physics of the drum. It allows the air to escape faster, which increases the “attack” (that “click” sound of the beater). We noted that the head tensions very nicely around the port, avoiding the wrinkles that often occur with DIY holes. This focus of pitch ensures that the microphone captures a clean signal with minimal “phasing” issues caused by erratic air movement inside the shell. If you are serious about your recorded drum tone, you should view this professional-grade drumhead and its reinforced porting system.
Durability and Build Quality: Made in the USA
Evans heads are manufactured in the USA, and the quality control is evident. The Level 360 collar design is one of my favorite features as a drum tech. It allows the head to sit more deeply and evenly on the bearing edge. During our setup, the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head tuned up almost instantly. Even at very low tensions (the “just above finger-tight” setting that rock drummers love), the head didn’t produce any “paper-y” flapping sounds.
The film itself is resilient. Even after several sessions of heavy playing, the black coating remained intact, and the dampening ring stayed securely bonded to the film. We’ve seen cheaper heads where the dampening rings begin to buzz or rattle after a few months, but the construction here is rock solid. This is a “set it and forget it” piece of gear. For those who play high-energy gospel or heavy metal, the durability of this head is a significant selling point. You can experience the tonal difference and durability for yourself by checking the latest availability.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general sentiment surrounding the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head is overwhelmingly positive, with a strong focus on its “plug-and-play” nature. Many users echo our findings, stating that it replaced non-ported heads and immediately reduced “unnecessary vibrations.” One user mentioned that combining it with an EMAD2 batter head gave them a “crisp thump without extra unwanted noise,” which is the exact “modern” sound most are looking for.
However, there is a point of contention regarding the “revised” version. Some users noted that the product they received differed slightly from older stock photos. Specifically, the port has moved from the 2 o’clock to the 4-5 o’clock position, and the rings are now fixed rather than interchangeable. One user warned, “Buyer beware… you DO NOT get the interchangeable rings.” While this is a manufacturer change rather than a defect, it is important for buyers to know they are getting the newer, more stable fixed-ring version. Despite this, even the skeptical users admitted the sound is “incredible” and the “low end thump” is exactly as advertised. The consensus is clear: if you want a professional look and a controlled sound, this is the head to get.
Comparing the Evans BD22REMAD to Top Alternatives
1. Aquarian Super-Kick II Drumhead Pack
- Clear super-kick II
- Two 7mil plies
While the REMAD is a resonant head, the Aquarian Super-Kick II is a legendary batter head often sold in packs. The Super-Kick II is a two-ply head with a felt “muffle ring” attached to the backside. Drummers who want an even more “dead” and muffled sound might prefer the Aquarian approach. While the Evans REMAD focuses on air movement and resonant control, the Super-Kick II focuses on the impact feel. If you are looking for a completely “pre-mixed” sound from the batter side, this is a strong alternative, though it lacks the sophisticated porting system found on the REMAD.
2. Remo Controlled Sound 22 Inch Clear Bass Drum Head
- 22" diameter bass drum head
- Medium and heavy-duty drumhead characteristics
The Remo Controlled Sound (CS) series offers a very different vibe. Featuring a “Black Dot” in the center, this head is designed for durability and a more “centered” tone, but it remains much more open and resonant than the Evans REMAD. It does not come with an integrated foam dampening system or a pre-cut port. This is the choice for the drummer who wants a classic, 1970s rock sound with a bit more “ring” and sustain. It requires more manual muffling (like a felt strip or pillow) compared to the all-in-one solution of the Evans BD22REMAD.
3. Evans EMAD 16 Inch Clear Bass Drum Head
- 16" drum head made using a single ply of 10mil film
- Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping (EMAD) system allows the player to adjust attack and focus
If you are playing a bop kit or a “jungle” kit with a 16-inch bass drum, this 16-inch EMAD batter head is the logical choice. It uses the same technology as the 22-inch version but is scaled down for smaller shells. It’s important to note that you cannot use a 22-inch head on a smaller drum, so if you are looking for consistency across your various kits, the EMAD/REMAD family is the best way to maintain a “brand sound.” This 16-inch version provides that same “big drum” low end for travel-sized kits, making it a favorite for jazz-fusion and street performers.
Final Verdict: Is the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head Worth It?
After putting the Evans BD22REMAD 22-inch Bass Drum Head through its paces, our verdict is a resounding yes. It is one of the most effective ways to professionally “finish” your kick drum sound. Its strengths lie in its effortless control of overtones, its reinforced port for easy miking, and its sleek aesthetic. While the transition to a fixed foam ring might disappoint those who love to micro-manage their gear, the result is a more durable and reliable product for the average drummer. We recommend it to anyone playing modern styles who wants a punchy, deep, and mix-ready kick drum without the hassle of traditional muffling techniques.
In short, if you want your 22-inch bass drum to sound like a professional recording every time you step on the pedal, this is the resonant head you need. It simplifies your setup, protects your gear, and delivers the “thump” that your audience (and your bassist) will love. Don’t settle for a boomy, uncontrolled kick drum. Take the first step toward a better sound today and check the current pricing for the Evans REMAD 22-inch head to complete your dream drum kit setup.
Last update on 2026-06-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API