I'm normally Anti 2-ply drum heads. For this application, I would recommend going to a 2-ply head, though a relatively thin one. Any drum head is going to sustain some damage when used this way. The best way to combat this, without killing your tone, is by using a thin poly-fiber based beater pad in addition to a lightweight 2-ply head, and tension it Med-Tight. Avoid
Remo. They come apart at the collar when used in this way.
I suggest a combination of a "Super-2 w/SX Ring" Head, and
put a "Super-Thin" Kick Pad on it at the Beater contact point. This is
critical no matter what head you choose. This will
protect it from damage and extend it's life 10x. You should be able to get a Head and a Kick Pad for $20. Both items are made by "
Aquarian".
Your beater will make a
HUGE difference also. I would
not use a felt or wood/plastic beater here. It's a little expensive ($25) but the
DW "Hardcore" Beater would be perfect for this. It's a soft foam beater w/ hard interior core. When you play softly it uses just the foam pad, but when you want more punch, just give it a little juice, and the hard center core impacts and gives you much greater
attack.
This combination should provide you with good feel, response, and a fairly versatile tuning range. If you can swing the $45-$50 for all 3 pieces, you should be set-up right, and pleased with the results.
Good Luck.
Linear Mode
