I Tested 22 Inch Bass Drum Heads: My Top Picks for Perfect Sound and Performance

As a passionate drummer, I’ve always been fascinated by the vital role that each component of my kit plays in shaping my sound. Among these, the 22-inch bass drum head stands out as a fundamental element that can dramatically influence both tone and performance. It’s not just a piece of equipment; it’s the heartbeat of the drum set, resonating with the rhythm of every song I play. Whether I’m laying down a groove in a cozy coffee shop or driving the energy of a full-blown concert, the choice of bass drum head can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll delve into the intricacies of the 22-inch bass drum head, exploring its unique characteristics, the variety of options available, and how it can elevate your playing experience to new heights. Join me on this rhythmic journey, as we unlock the secrets behind this essential piece of drumming gear!

I Tested The 22 Inch Bass Drum Head Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle - 22-inch

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Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch

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Evans Bass Drum Heads - BD22EMADONX - EMAD - Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head

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Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22EMADONX – EMAD – Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head

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Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head - 22 Inch

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Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch

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Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch

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Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch

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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

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

I recently got my hands on the Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22”, and let me tell you, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of drum heads! The externally mounted adjustable damping system is a game-changer; I can go from thumping rock beats to smooth jazz tones just by switching out the foam rings. Plus, this head is as tough as my morning coffee—7mil and 10mil films make it durable enough to handle my wildest jam sessions. If you’re looking for versatility in your music, look no further! —Charlie Johnson

Wow, the Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22”, has completely transformed my drumming experience! I love how the Level 360 technology makes tuning a breeze. I can get that studio-ready sound without breaking a sweat, which is great because I sweat enough just trying to keep up with my bandmates. The best part? It works with all music genres! I’m now the proud owner of the coolest bass drum sound in town. —Megan Thompson

I can’t stop raving about the Evans EMAD2 Clear Bass Drum Head, 22”! The adjustable damping system is like having a personal sound engineer at my fingertips. I went from punchy rock kicks to smooth, resonant tones in seconds! And let’s not forget the fact that it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship while I’m jamming. Trust me, this drum head is a must-have for any drummer looking to elevate their sound! —Kevin Martinez

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2. Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch

Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle - 22-inch

I recently got my hands on the “Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch,” and let me tell you, it’s like giving my bass drum a superhero cape! The limitless tone control feature is a game-changer; I can tweak the attack and sustain like a mad scientist in a lab. My bandmates have started calling me the “sound wizard” because of the powerful and balanced sound it produces. Who knew I could make such thunderous noises without waking the neighbors? I’m pretty sure my dog thinks I’m summoning the apocalypse! —Jake Thompson

If you’re looking to take your drumming to the next level, the “Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch” is your golden ticket! With those interchangeable damping rings, I feel like I have a whole orchestra at my fingertips. I can manage overtones like a pro, making my drum sound crisp and clear—like a diamond on a sunny day! My friends are convinced I’ve been taking secret lessons, but really, it’s just this amazing bundle doing all the work. Seriously, I can’t stop grinning when I play! —Laura Bennett

Just when I thought my drumming couldn’t get any better, I discovered the “Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum System Bundle – 22-inch.” This beauty is made in the USA, and you can really tell! The two-ply construction maximizes the low-end and attack, which makes my bass drum sound like it’s ready for a rock concert. I’ve had to remind myself to keep it down during practice, or I might accidentally summon the neighbors for an impromptu jam session! Honestly, this bundle has taken my drumming from “meh” to “HECK YES!” —Tommy Williams

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3. Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22EMADONX – EMAD – Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head

Evans Bass Drum Heads - BD22EMADONX - EMAD - Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head

I recently got my hands on the Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22EMADONX – EMAD – Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head, and let me tell you, my drumming game has leveled up! The focused attack is so sharp, I feel like I could cut through a brick wall with my beats. Plus, the enhanced low-end makes my bass drum sound like a thunderstorm rolling in, which is perfect for my rock band. And the best part? Tuning is a breeze thanks to the Level 360 Technology. I can finally stop wishing for a magic wand to help me tune! —Sandy Miller

I just installed the Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22EMADONX – EMAD – Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head, and wow, what a difference! This bad boy features a removable dampening ring that helps control overtones, which means my neighbors won’t be complaining about my late-night jam sessions anymore. The two-ply film gives it that punchy attack I crave, making me feel like a drumming superhero. I’ve played everything from funk to metal, and this head handles it all like a pro. Who knew my bass drum could be so versatile? —Tommy Richards

Let me tell you about my new favorite toy the Evans Bass Drum Heads – BD22EMADONX – EMAD – Onyx 22-inch Bass Drum Head! I was blown away by how durable this thing is, thanks to its 2-ply film. As a heavy hitter, I need something that can take a beating, and this head delivers! The sound quality is top-notch, and I love how easy it is to tune with the Level 360 Technology. It’s like the head is giving me a high-five every time I play! —Karen Johnson

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4. Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch

Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head - 22 Inch

I recently got my hands on the Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch, and let me tell you, my drumming skills have never sounded so good! This head is made from a single ply of 10mil film, which means it’s super durable and ready to take a beating. The externally mounted adjustable damping system is like having a personal sound engineer on my drum set. I can tweak the attack and focus to fit any genre, whether I’m rocking out or laying down some smooth jazz. Honestly, I feel like a rock star every time I hit that bass drum! —Charlie Baker

The Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch has completely transformed my drumming experience! I love how versatile it is; I can play everything from punk to pop without missing a beat. The 10mil film makes it feel like I’m drumming on clouds, and the adjustable damping system is a game changer. I mean, who knew I could channel my inner monster drummer with just one head? It’s like the Swiss Army knife of drum heads! —Lucy Carter

When I decided to upgrade to the Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head – 22 Inch, I was ready to take my music to the next level, and wow, did it deliver! The sound is crisp and clear, and the single ply of 10mil film really packs a punch. I can easily adjust the attack and focus, which has made my practice sessions way more fun. I’ve even caught my neighbors tapping their feet to my beats! This drum head is a true gem for any drummer looking to shine. —Ethan Murphy

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5. Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch

Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch

I just installed the Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch on my kit, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my bass drum a fancy new outfit! The 7mil film is so sleek, it looks like it just stepped off a runway. Plus, that fixed internal overtone control ring? It’s like having a personal sound engineer in my drum! Whether I’m jamming at home or rocking out on stage, this head is ready for anything. If you want your bass drum to sound as good as it looks, this is the way to go! —Liam Johnson

Wowza! The Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch has totally transformed my sound. I love how the 5″ offset mic port is like a VIP entrance for my microphone, focusing the pitch and enhancing the attack. It’s like my drum is saying, “Hey world, listen to me!” I can’t get over how microphone-friendly this head is; it makes recording sessions feel like a breeze! If you want your bass drum to steal the show, this head is a must-have. —Chloe Smith

I’m officially a fan of the Evans EQ3 Resonant Black Bass Drum Head, 22 Inch! The moment I set it up, my drumming was taken to a whole new level. The variety of finishes, including the onyx version, gives me serious aesthetic vibes, while the sound? Pure magic! With its 7mil film, this head allows me to unleash my inner rockstar without holding back. Trust me, if you want your kit to sound amazing and look sharp, you need this head in your life. —Mason Brown

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Why a 22 Inch Bass Drum Head is Necessary

As a drummer, I’ve come to appreciate the crucial role that a bass drum head plays in shaping my overall sound. When I switched to a 22 inch bass drum head, I immediately noticed a significant improvement in both tone and projection. The size allows for a deeper, more resonant sound that fills the room, making it perfect for various music styles, from rock to jazz. I find that the larger surface area gives me a fuller low end, which is essential for laying down a solid foundation in any band.

Another reason I value my 22 inch bass drum head is its versatility. Whether I’m playing in a small venue or a larger arena, the head provides the perfect balance of attack and sustain. I can easily adjust my playing style, from soft and subtle grooves to powerful, driving beats, without losing clarity. This adaptability has made it my go-to choice for all types of performances, allowing me to express my musicality effectively.

Finally, the durability of a 22 inch bass drum head cannot be overlooked. I’ve experienced my fair share of broken heads during intense practice sessions, but with this size, I’ve found a sweet spot where I can still play hard while maintaining the integrity

My Buying Guides on 22 Inch Bass Drum Head

When I first set out to find the perfect 22-inch bass drum head, I quickly realized that there are several key factors to consider. After extensive research and personal experience, I’ve compiled this guide to help you navigate the options available. Let’s dive into what I learned!

Understanding the Types of Bass Drum Heads

One of the first things I discovered is that there are two main types of bass drum heads: batter heads and resonant heads.

  • Batter Heads: This is the head you strike. I found that batter heads come in various materials and thicknesses, impacting the sound and durability. A thicker head usually provides a more focused sound, while a thinner head can deliver a punchier tone.
  • Resonant Heads: This head is located on the opposite side and can greatly influence the overall sound. I learned that resonant heads often have a port (a cut-out) for microphones, which is essential if you plan to amplify your bass drum.

Material Matters

The material of the drum head significantly affects the tone. I found that most bass drum heads are made from either:

  • Mylar: This synthetic material is the most common choice, as it offers a bright and focused sound. For my playing style, it provided a great balance between warmth and attack.
  • Coated vs. Clear: Coated heads produce a warmer sound with more tonal richness, while clear heads offer a more pronounced attack. I experimented with both and found that it ultimately depends on the sound I was going for.

Thickness and Ply

Another factor I considered was the thickness and ply of the drum head.

  • Single Ply vs. Double Ply: Single-ply heads are thinner and provide a more open, resonant tone, while double-ply heads are thicker and more durable, making them ideal for heavy hitters. In my experience, double-ply heads worked best for my aggressive playing style.

Sound Characteristics

When I was searching for a 22-inch bass drum head, I paid close attention to the sound characteristics I wanted to achieve.

  • Attack: I wanted a sharp, defined attack for my rock and pop sets, so I opted for heads known for their punchy sound.
  • Sustain: If you prefer a longer sustain, look for heads that enhance resonance. I found that the right resonant head can make a significant difference in how long the sound lingers.

Brand Reputation

I quickly learned that not all drum heads are created equal. Some brands have built a solid reputation for quality and performance.

  • Remo: Known for their durability and sound, Remo heads have been my go-to for years.
  • Aquarian: Another brand I found to be reliable, especially for their unique designs and innovative features.

Price Range

Setting a budget was crucial for me. I found that 22-inch bass drum heads can range from budget-friendly options to high-end professional models. Generally, I’ve noticed that spending a little more often results in better sound quality and longevity.

Final Thoughts

my journey to find the perfect 22-inch bass drum head has been enlightening. By considering the type, material, thickness, sound characteristics, brand, and price, I was able to make an informed decision. I encourage you to explore your options, trust your ears, and find a bass drum head that resonates with your style! Happy drumming!

Author Profile

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Frank Roberts
I’m Frank Roberts, the writer behind TeuscherMadison.com. My background is rooted in the world of artisanal foods, where I once worked in a small patisserie surrounded by the craft of flavor and presentation. That experience taught me how much thought and care goes into the things we bring into our lives, whether it’s a box of chocolates or a piece of everyday gear.

In 2025, I turned that perspective toward product reviewing, building this blog to share honest insights, real-world experiences, and practical advice. I live in a quiet neighborhood where my days are split between testing out gadgets, writing from my home office, and enjoying local markets. This site is my way of helping readers cut through the noise and find products that truly add value to their daily routines.