Evans EMAD 2 review: modern metal kick batter with adjustable damping
An editorial review of the Evans EMAD 2 kick batter drumhead. Double-ply with externally-mounted adjustable damping ring (1-inch + 2-inch options). The modern metal + rock kick batter alternative to Remo Powerstroke 3.
Reviewed by the Change Your Strings editorial team ·
The Evans EMAD 2 is a double-ply 10+6.5 mil Mylar kick batter with an externally-mounted adjustable damping ring (1-inch and 2-inch ring options included). Available in 18 to 26 inch diameters. The adjustable external damping ring is the defining feature: drummers can dial in the kick voice from 'open and resonant' (1-inch ring) to 'controlled and tight' (2-inch ring) without changing the head. The modern metal + rock kick batter alternative to Remo Powerstroke 3.
Catalog audit pending. Amazon listing not yet wired; Trace verifies the canonical ASIN at the next quarterly catalog audit. Editorial review below.
What it is, in one paragraph
The Evans EMAD 2 is a double-ply 10+6.5 mil Mylar kick-drum batter with an externally-mounted adjustable damping ring (1-inch and 2-inch ring options ship in the box). The adjustable external damping ring is the defining feature; drummers can dial in the kick voice from 'open and resonant' (1-inch) to 'controlled and tight' (2-inch) without changing the head. The modern metal + rock kick batter alternative to Remo Powerstroke 3.
Where it sits in the rock-kick lineup
Verdict and the affiliate hook
If you play modern metal or hard rock and want adjustable damping that lets you dial the kick voice for specific recording or live contexts, the Evans EMAD 2 is the canonical choice. The adjustable external damping ring is the head's defining feature; the double-ply construction adds attack character vs single-ply Powerstroke 3. For canonical rock-kick character at fixed damping, Powerstroke 3 remains the default.
Affiliate link coming. The exact Amazon ASIN for BD22EMAD2 is being verified before we wire the affiliate link; the SKU above is the canonical model number to search in the meantime.