Evans EMAD2 Bass Drum Head Review

Evans EMAD 2 Bass Drum Head Gallery

Contents

Evans EMAD 2 Bass Drum Head Ratings

Sound Quality

4.5

4.5/5

Durability

5

5/5

Versatility

4.2

4.2/5

Value

4.3

4.3/5

Evans EMAD2: My Personal Experience

The Evans EMAD2 has been a staple in my setup for years because it consistently delivers that punchy, controlled sound I need, whether I’m in the studio or on stage. It’s got a unique blend of tone and durability that makes it a great fit for any drummer looking to elevate their bass drum sound.

I’ve used it in so many studio sessions and live gigs, and it’s always nailed the sound I’m after.

The build quality is fantastic—featuring two plies of film, with a 7 mil outer layer and a 10 mil inner layer, giving it that perfect mix of durability and tone that withstands even the heaviest playing.

What really sets the EMAD2 apart is its Externally Mounted Adjustable Damping (EMAD) system. It comes with two foam rings that you can swap out to adjust your sound—one for a tighter, more focused tone, and another for a slightly more open sound. 

And if you want even more resonance, you can remove the rings altogether, which gives you a sound that’s similar to the Remo Powerstroke 3, but with a bit more vibrancy and resonance.

This flexibility means you can quickly adapt your bass drum sound depending on the gig, the room, or the style of music you’re playing. 

In the studio, the EMAD 2 has always come through for me. It adds just the right amount of attack to my bass drum sound, giving me that sweet mix of deep low-end punch and a bit of top-end click. That’s what helps the kick drum cut through in a mix. And when I’m on stage, it’s just as reliable, and it holds up so well.

When I compare it to other heads, like the Remo Powerstroke 3, you can really hear the difference. The Powerstroke 3 is great—it’s a single-ply head with a 3 mil inlay ring that controls overtones well, but it’s got a warmer, more resonant tone. But it doesn’t quite have the aggressive cut or focused punch of the EMAD2.

With its dual-ply build, the EMAD2 offers a beefier, more controlled sound with a strong attack—ideal for heavier styles like rock, metal, or pop. The low-end is massive and tight, staying clear and articulate even in a busy mix. The added click in the higher frequencies really helps the bass drum sit right where it needs to be, both in live settings and recordings.

So, if you’re after a bass drum head that can handle modern genres, deliver a powerful sound, and stand up to heavy playing, the Evans EMAD2 Clear is definitely worth checking out. It’s built to last, incredibly versatile, and always delivers that punchy, focused sound that I—and so many other drummers—love.