Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head 22 in - Adjustable Punch and Tone

In this review the Evans EMAD Clear Bass Drum Head 22 in is evaluated as a practical, working drummer's choice for players who want a balance of punch, low end and tunability. The single ply 10mil clear film keeps the attack lively while the externally mounted adjustable damping (EMAD) system provides two removable foam rings to tailor focus and sustain. For kit players who gig, record, or need a versatile head for multiple genres, the EMAD 22 in delivers consistent tone control without sacrificing resonance.

Key Features

• Single ply 10mil film: Offers a bright, responsive attack with enough resonance to sit well in a band mix while remaining durable for regular play.
• Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping: Lets the player choose between thinner or wider foam rings to dial in either increased punch and focus or maximum low end and sustain.
• Clear construction: Preserves the natural beater impact and visual look of the bass drum while projecting a beefy tone suited to many music styles.
• Level 360 technology: Improves tuning range and head-to-bass hoop contact so the drum tunes more evenly and offers a wider tonal palette.
• Versatile for genres: Works from rock and funk to country and pop, providing a useful balance of attack and depth for drummers who change settings frequently.

Who It's For

The EMAD Clear 22 in is aimed at gigging drummers and studio players who need a single head that handles a variety of musical situations. If you want an easily adjusted bass response without swapping heads or relying solely on external muffling, this model provides two practical damping choices right on the head.

Players who want a very dry, deadened sound or who require a heavily voiced vintage tone might look elsewhere or consider the coated EMAD variant; similarly, those seeking a two-ply, extra-heavy attack for extreme styles may prefer a different construction.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear, punchy attack with maintained low end when using the wider foam ring.
• Adjustable damping system gives immediate control over focus and sustain without added hardware.
• Level 360 improves tuning consistency and expands usable tones from the shell.

Cons

• Damping effect gets mixed feedback; some players may find the muffling ring too subtle or too pronounced for specific snare bleed preferences.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Evans EMAD Clear 22 in is a solid, versatile bass drum head that suits gigging drummers who need quick tonal adjustment and a balance of punch and low end. Its adjustable damping and Level 360 tuning features offer real value for players who want one reliable head that covers many genres without constant replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch the damping rings live?
Yes, the EMAD rings are removable and designed to be swapped to change attack and sustain, though swapping during a show requires practice and a secure setup.

Does the clear head reduce resonance compared with coated versions?
Clear heads emphasize attack and sustain differently than coated heads; the EMAD clear preserves more beater definition while coated variants slightly warm the tone.

Is this head suitable for recording?
Yes, the control over focus and low end makes it a good recording option when you need consistent, tunable bass drum tone.