Remo EMPEROR 18 - SMOOTH WHITE - BB-1218-00

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

In the world of drumheads, the Emperor series has established itself as a standard for drummers seeking more durability and control than a single-ply head, while maintaining an open and musical sound. In the smooth white version, it serves as an alternative to clear heads: you retain projection and attack, but with a fuller sensation in the low-midrange, particularly appreciated on an 18-inch bass drum where the balance between punch and depth is essential.

Who This Drum/Instrument Is For

This 18-inch bass drum head is aimed at beginner drummers looking for a reliable and versatile head to progress with, as well as intermediate and advanced musicians who want consistent response, easy tuning, and coherence both live and in the studio. It suits rock, pop, funk, fusion styles and contexts where a present, controlled, and microphone-friendly bass drum is desired without excessive processing.

Features and Innovations

The key concept of a Smooth White Emperor head lies in its 2-ply construction, which enhances durability and naturally limits certain unwanted overtones. The result: the bass drum responds with greater stability, especially when playing hard or with repeated strokes (single or double pedal). The Smooth White finish provides a denser feel and a rounder attack than a clear head, helping to achieve controlled low end and solid midrange while maintaining good beat articulation.

Sound Characteristics

On an 18-inch bass drum, this head promotes a more focused and more homogeneous sound. The double-ply tends to reduce excessive sustain and tighten overtones, which facilitates tuning and makes the sound more direct in the mix. Typically, you get a clean low end, a present midrange (important for definition), and a sufficiently clear attack to remain audible even when bass and guitars occupy a lot of sonic space.

The smooth white finish contributes to a warmer perception than clear heads, with a less "sharp" attack and often an easier sound to place in recording. It's a relevant option if you want a bass drum that retains body at low volume while supporting energetic playing without falling apart.

Technical specifications

Category	Bass drum	Diameter	18 "
Head finish	Smooth	Color	White
Shaping	Twin Ply

Type	bass drum head	Character	focused mids, assertive attack, rounder feel than a clear head
Construction	2-ply	Advantages	enhanced durability and more stable response for heavy playing
Film	2 plies of 7.5-mil with smooth white finish	Applications	suitable for drum kit use, especially on bass drum
Finish	smooth (Smooth White)