Opinions on heads for concert toms

strat64

Hi- I'm cleaning up a 1978 Gretsch jazz 8 pc. with concert toms. I'd be happy to hear some opinions on head selection for 12, 13, 14, 15" toms ans a 16" floor (with resonant head).

Rasta · Posted: Mon Mar 03, 2008 12:43 pm Post subject:

Go with single ply for most resonence.

Many good companies to choose from. I'm not too familiar with all the brands and their specific differences.

I personaly use evans, but I play rock.

styles2281 · Posted: Tue Mar 04, 2008 3:46 pm Post subject:

I would go with (my remo bias and knowledge) either a straight Coated Ambassador, or if you want to get fancy, go with my FAVORITE head and get ambassador Renaissance.

Others can offer their opinion on other head companies, as I don't know others that well.

Mr.Clam · Posted: Wed Mar 19, 2008 4:31 am Post subject:

Don't go for pinstripes, for single-headed toms, anything 2-ply will kill the sound. I'd advise either Remo Ambassadors, or maybe Evans G1 heads.

strat64 · Posted: Thu Apr 10, 2008 3:59 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the input! I went with Remo Renaissance Ambassadors (coated) on the tom batter side in 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16". The 16 floor got a Remo clear single ply 7 mil. The toms are dark, warm and unmuffled with no unwelcome over-ring. Careful to not overtighten- toms choke out at higher pitch. Toms have that slight pitch detune attack reminiscent of the early to mid 70's toms on Karen Carpenter recordings (please don't laugh) and most pop kits of the day. I am very impressed!!

Gretsch COB 14" 4064 snare got Remo Renaissance Ambassador batter and Remo Renaissance snare side heads and new snares. WOW! Big, dark, deep with a little muffler contact and loose snares. Very Levon Helm-ish! Add muffler and tighten the snares for more articulation.

I went with Istanbul Agop Signature 24" ride and 16" crash, Paiste Sound Creation 14" sound edge hats (1981), and Paiste pre-serial 20" ride w/ sizzle and 18" crash. I now call this kit my "Dark Kit".

Thanks for the help.

I hope my "review" can assist others. Peace.