Evans BD18GMAD - GMAD CLEAR 18
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Essential Information About the G-Plus Bass Drum Head with EMAD System
Essential Information About the G-Plus Bass Drum Head with EMAD System
- Ideal compromise between the feel of an EMAD and the control of an EMAD2, for a controlled bass drum without losing punch.
- EMAD system with interchangeable external mufflers (13 mm or 18 mm) to quickly adjust attack and sustain.
- Single 12 mil ply : balance between responsiveness, durability, and warmth, suited for dynamic playing.
- Massive lows and warm response, equally effective in studio and live settings.
Manufacturer Information
Evans
https://www.daddario.com
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Historical Context and Positioning in the Range
This head fits within the logic of modern heads featuring external sustain control via the EMAD system. The principle: preserve the natural character of the bass drum while offering immediate damping adjustment, without internal modifications or permanent changes.
Target Audience for This Drum/Instrument
It is particularly suitable for intermediate to advanced drummers seeking a bass drum that cuts through the mix, with present lows and a clear attack. Perfect for Rock and Fusion, it remains highly relevant in Jazz if you prioritize warm lows and controlled sustain depending on the chosen muffler.
Features and Innovations
The G-Plus technology combined with the EMAD system allows switching from an aggressive, precise sound to a more diffuse response in seconds, simply by changing the external muffler (13 mm for more openness, 18 mm for greater control). The transparent finish promotes a direct response and a clear playing feel.
Sound
With its single 12 mil ply, this head emphasizes a bass-heavy attack and excellent stick definition. The damping system modulates sustain: more open for a breathing low end, or tighter for a short, precise bass drum sound that is very effective in close miking situations.
Technical specifications
| Category | Bass drum | Diameter | 18 " |
| Head finish | Clear | Color | Transparent |
| Shaping | Single Ply | ||
| Type | bass drum head | Sound | bass-heavy attack, aggressive, precise or more diffuse (depending on muffler) |
| Configuration | transparent | Resonance | warm, huge low-end response |
| Thickness | single 12 mil ply | Use | live or studio |
| Interchangeable external mufflers | 13 mm or 18 mm wide | Styles | Rock, Fusion, Jazz |
Questions frequently asked
Is the Evans BD18GMAD compatible with an 18-inch bass drum?
This drumhead is designed for an 18-inch bass drum. Its 18" diameter should match the shell size.
How does the EMAD system work on this bass drumhead?
The EMAD system uses interchangeable external mufflers, without internal damping inside the shell. The 13 mm muffler allows more open resonance, while the 18 mm muffler reduces sustain more significantly.
What is the thickness of the Evans GMAD transparent 18-inch drumhead?
The construction relies on a single 12 mil G-Plus ply. This thickness promotes a bass-rich attack and a focused response.
What sound does an 18-inch EMAD transparent drumhead produce?
The clear finish and 12 mil ply deliver a crisp attack with pronounced lows. Depending on the muffler installed, the resonance can remain more open or become shorter and more precise. A warm low-end response is expected.
For which styles is this 18-inch EMAD drumhead intended?
This model is suited for Rock, Fusion, and Jazz. Its adjustable sustain control enables use both on stage and in the studio.



