Evans ONYX 20
Estimated Shipping Widget will be displayed here!
Couldn't load pickup availability
Information
Information
Manufacturer Information
Evans
https://www.daddario.com
------------------------
Safety manager:
D'Addario Europe Ltd
Email:
Address:
Historical Context and Positioning in the Range
This head fits into the modern approach of bass drum heads with external attenuation: a solution designed to quickly achieve a usable, consistent, and easy-to-tune sound, both on stage and in the studio, while preserving the natural feel of the instrument.
Who This Drum/Instrument Is For
This bass drum head is suitable for beginner to advanced drummers who want simple tuning and controlled sound. It is particularly suited for rock, fusion, and jazz contexts, when a clear bass drum with adjustable resonance according to the room, microphone, or style is desired.
Features and Innovations
The EMAD system allows quick selection of the attenuation degree thanks to interchangeable external mufflers: the 13 mm width preserves more air and sustain, while the 18 mm narrows the sound for more controlled low end. All this is achieved without adding internal foam, maintaining consistent stroke feel and reproducible tuning.
Sound
The single ply 10 mil offers a clear attack, good sensitivity, and naturally present sustain. Combined with the external attenuator, you get a bass drum that remains open but never overpowering, with better-contained harmonics and a more stable low-end foundation. Both miked and acoustically, the result is easier to place in the mix without losing playing nuances.
Technical specifications
| Category | Bass drum |
| Head finish | Clear |
| Shaping | Single Ply |
| Diameter | 20 " |
| Color | Transparent |
| Type | bass drum head |
| Film | transparent |
| Structure | single ply |
| Thickness | 10 mil |
| System | EMAD (external harmonic attenuator) |
| Interchangeable external mufflers | 13 mm or 18 mm wide |
| Use | stage or studio |
| Styles | rock, fusion, jazz |
Questions frequently asked
Is the Evans BD20EMADONX compatible with a 20-inch bass drum?
This drumhead is designed for a 20-inch bass drum.
What is the thickness of the EMAD Onyx 20 drumhead?
The clear film consists of a single 10 mil ply. This construction favors a sharp attack and good stick response.
How do the EMAD damping rings work?
The EMAD system uses external interchangeable mufflers that are 13 mm or 18 mm wide. The 13 mm ring preserves more sustain, while the 18 mm ring tightens the resonance and stabilizes the low end. No internal foam addition is necessary.
What kind of sound is produced with a clear EMAD drumhead?
Thanks to the 10 mil single clear ply and external damping, the bass drum retains an open sound with controlled overtones. The tone remains easier to position acoustically or under a microphone.
Is this bass drumhead suitable for rock and jazz?
It is designed for rock, fusion, and jazz settings, both live and in the studio. The two muffler widths allow adjusting the resonance according to style or venue.



