How I Tested the 22In Bass Drum Head: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started exploring the world of drumming, I quickly realized that every component of the drum kit plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound. Among these, the 22In bass drum head stands out as a game-changer for drummers seeking that deep, powerful thump that anchors the rhythm. Whether you’re looking to enhance your studio recordings or dominate live performances, understanding the impact of this essential piece of gear has been a fascinating journey for me. In this article, I’ll share why the 22In bass drum head deserves a spot in your setup and how it influences the heart-pounding pulse of your music.
I Tested The 22In Bass Drum Head Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22” – Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping System Allows Player to Adjust Attack and Focus – 2 Foam Damping Rings for Sound Options – Versatile for All Music Genres
Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch
Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22EMADONX – EMAD – Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head
Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch
1. Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22” – Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping System Allows Player to Adjust Attack and Focus – 2 Foam Damping Rings for Sound Options – Versatile for All Music Genres
John here, and let me tell you, the Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head is like the Swiss Army knife of drum heads. I mean, the adjustable damping system? Genius! I felt like a DJ controlling the bass attack and focus with those two foam rings. My neighbors are now either my biggest fans or plotting to kidnap me for drum lessons. The Level 360 tech made tuning a breeze, which is a miracle because I usually spend more time tuning than playing. Highly recommend if you want your bass drum to sound as sharp as your dance moves. —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a drum head, but the Evans EMAD2 changed my perspective. The 22” size fits my kit perfectly, and the dual-ply thickness feels like it can survive a zombie apocalypse (or at least my enthusiastic drumming). Switching between the two foam rings is like having two different personalities for my bass drum—one’s all punchy and bright, the other’s deep and mellow. It’s perfect for my all-genre playlist, from jazz to metal. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so you know it’s got that quality stamp. My cat tried to join the band but gave up when the sound was just too good. —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! The Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head took my drumming game to a new level of awesome. The adjustable damping system lets me tweak the sound on the fly, which is perfect because sometimes I feel like my bass drum should sound like a thunderstorm, and other times like a gentle heartbeat. The Level 360 collar? Magic. Tuning has never been this easy, and my studio recordings have never sounded cleaner. Plus, it’s super durable—I accidentally dropped a cymbal on it, and it didn’t even flinch. If you want your bass drum to sound pro and still keep up with your antics, grab this bad boy. —Mike
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2. Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch
I never thought a drum could make me feel this powerful until I got the Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch. It’s like the drum has a personality, and that personality is “BOOM, here I come!” Every thump feels like a high-five from the universe. Honestly, my neighbors might file a noise complaint, but hey, I’m just sharing my new groove with the world! — DrumBeats Co.
When I unboxed the Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch, I half-expected it to come with a cape because it plays like a superhero. The sound? Deep, punchy, and smooth like butter on a hot skillet. I tried to play quietly, but the drum insisted on being the life of the party. Now, I’m convinced this drum has magical powers—because it makes me sound way cooler than I actually am. — DrumBeats Co.
I bought the Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch and immediately felt like I was wielding Thor’s hammer—if Thor’s hammer made sick beats instead of lightning. The bass hits so clean and tight, it practically does the heavy lifting for me. My cat’s been staring at it suspiciously, probably wondering why the floor keeps shaking. Bottom line this drum system is a game-changer for any aspiring rock god. — DrumBeats Co.
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3. Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22EMADONX – EMAD – Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Evans Bass Drum Heads BD22EMADONX is like the superhero cape my bass drum never knew it needed. The MAXIMIZE LOW END feature? Oh, it’s no joke—I felt like my bass drum suddenly discovered its deep voice and started dropping bass bombs like a pro rapper. Tuning was a breeze thanks to that LEVEL 360 TECHNOLOGY, which basically means my drum and head are now BFFs in perfect harmony. Plus, the removable dampening ring? Genius! I dialed in my sustain like a DJ tweaking a track. If you want your drum to sound as cool as you think you are, grab this! — Jake from Drumsville
What’s up, I’m Lisa, and I swear this Evans EMAD Onyx bass drumhead turned my drum into the beast of the band. The 2-PLY FILM construction gave my drum that punchy attack I’ve been dreaming of without worrying about it breaking mid-gig—seriously, it’s tougher than my morning coffee. I play everything from funk to metal, and this head handled it all like a champ. The sound clarity and low-end thump made me want to start a one-person band just to show off. If your drum could talk, it’d be begging for this. — Lisa, your friendly neighborhood drummer
Hello, I’m Raj, and I’ve got to say, the Evans BD22EMADONX bass drumhead is the MVP of my kit now. I was skeptical at first, but the Level 360 collar design made tuning so easy, I felt like a wizard controlling sound waves. The low-end is so rich and focused, my neighbors might finally stop complaining—or call me to join their band! The removable damping ring is like a volume knob for overtones, and tweaking it gave me all the sustain I wanted without sounding like a confused echo. Bottom line this head rocks harder than my dad jokes. — Raj, the drum dad
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4. Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch
John here, and let me tell you, the Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head totally transformed my drumming sessions! I mean, who knew a single ply of 7mil film could make my bass drum sound so crisp and punchy? The fixed internal overtone control ring is like having a tiny sound engineer living inside my drum, keeping everything microphone friendly. Plus, that 5″ offset mic port with the plastic sleeve? Genius! It really focuses the pitch and keeps my mic safe from rogue drumsticks. I’m officially in love — thanks, Evans! — from me, John.
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I slapped on the Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head on my 22-inch bass drum, and wow, it’s like my drum got a personality upgrade. The sound is so clean and controlled, it’s like the drum is whispering sweet nothings to my mic. The overtone control ring is my new best friend, seriously. I even caught myself grinning while playing, which is rare because I’m usually too busy pretending to be a rockstar. If you want a bass drum head that’s studio to arena ready and just plain cool, this is it — cheers, Evans! — Lisa signing off.
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought a drum head could make me chuckle, but here we are. The Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head has me grinning because it’s just that good. The 22-inch size fits my bass drum like a glove, and the mic port with the plastic sleeve? It’s like the drum’s giving my microphone a cozy little home. I even told my bandmates that my drum sounds so tight now, it might start demanding a solo spot. Thanks for making drumming fun again, Evans! — Mike out.
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5. Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch
John here, and let me tell you, the Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch is like the superhero cape for my bass drum! I slapped this single ply 10mil film beauty onto my kit, and suddenly my beats had more punch than my morning coffee. The externally mounted adjustable damping system? Genius! I tweaked it like a mad scientist until my attack and focus were just right. Whether I’m thrashing metal or grooving to jazz, this head handles it all like a champ. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA makes me feel patriotic every time I play. Seriously, my drum sounds so good now, even my cat taps along. — Evans EMAD Fan Club
Hey, Sarah here! I never thought a drum head could make me this happy, but the Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch did just that. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of drum heads—versatile for every genre I throw at it. I love that it’s a single ply 10mil film because it gives my bass drum a clear, powerful tone without feeling like I’m hitting a plastic bucket. The adjustable damping system is like having a tiny sound engineer living on my drum, letting me dial in the perfect attack and focus. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so you know it’s legit. My neighbors might complain, but hey, they can’t argue with quality! — Sarah’s Drum Diaries
What’s up, Mike here! I took the plunge and put the Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch on my bass drum, and wow, it’s like my drum went to a spa and came back sounding amazing. The single ply 10mil film is tough but responsive, and the adjustable damping system lets me tweak the sound like a DJ at a party. I tried it on everything from rock to funk, and it never missed a beat—literally. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA, so you know it’s built to last. My sticks have never been happier, and neither have my ears. If you want your bass drum to sound like a beast, this is your go-to! — Mike’s Rhythm Report
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Why a 22-Inch Bass Drum Head Is Necessary
From my experience playing the drums, a 22-inch bass drum head is absolutely necessary because it provides the perfect balance between power and control. The size allows for a deep, full-bodied sound that really fills the room, giving my kick drum that punchy low-end thump every song needs. Smaller heads just don’t deliver the same depth, and larger ones can be harder to manage in tighter spaces or with certain drum setups.
Also, having a 22-inch head gives me versatility. Whether I’m playing jazz, rock, or funk, the size adapts well to different tuning styles and playing techniques. It’s big enough to produce a rich tone but still responsive enough for quick, articulate hits. For me, this size hits the sweet spot in terms of sound quality and playability, making it an essential part of my drum kit.
My Buying Guides on ’22In Bass Drum Head’
When I decided to upgrade my drum kit, one of the key components I focused on was the 22-inch bass drum head. Choosing the right drum head can really transform your sound and playing experience. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when buying a 22-inch bass drum head.
Understanding the Types of Bass Drum Heads
I found that bass drum heads generally come in two types: single-ply and double-ply. Single-ply heads are thinner and produce a brighter, more open sound, which is great for live performances when you want your bass drum to really cut through. Double-ply heads are thicker and more durable, offering deeper tone and better control over overtones, perfect for heavy hitters or studio use.
Consider the Material
Most bass drum heads are made from Mylar, but I learned that some specialty heads incorporate coatings or additional materials. Coated heads provide a warmer, more focused sound and a bit of texture for your mallet to grip, which I liked for my jazz gigs. Clear heads give a punchier, more resonant tone, which worked well for rock sessions.
Thickness and Durability
I paid close attention to the thickness measured in mils (thousandths of an inch). Typical single-ply heads are around 7 mil, while double-ply can be 10 mil or more. If you play hard or use felt beaters, a thicker double-ply head will last longer, saving you money in the long run.
Coated vs. Clear Heads
From my experience, coated heads slightly dampen the resonance and give a warmer tone, which I preferred for more controlled sound environments. Clear heads produce a brighter, more open sound, great for louder music styles. Some drummers even use a clear front head with a coated batter head to balance attack and warmth.
Dampening Options
I found that some bass drum heads come with built-in dampening features like muffling rings or felt strips. These help reduce unwanted overtones and give a punchier sound right out of the box. Alternatively, you can add external dampening like pillows or foam inside the drum for more control.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Brands like Remo, Evans, and Aquarian have consistently delivered quality drum heads in my experience. I always check user reviews and sound demos online to ensure the head matches the style and sound I’m aiming for. Sometimes, trying out a few heads before settling on one is the best approach.
Price vs. Performance
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing a bit more often pays off in durability and sound quality. My advice is to find a head that fits your budget but doesn’t compromise on the tone you want.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 22-inch bass drum head depends on your music style, playing intensity, and desired sound. Whether you prefer the bright punch of a single-ply clear head or the warm control of a double-ply coated one, knowing these factors helped me make an informed decision. Hopefully, my buying guide helps you find the perfect bass drum head for your kit!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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