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.
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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
| Evans EMAD 2 | Remo Powerstroke 3 Coated | Aquarian Super-Kick II | Remo Powerstroke Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Construction | Double-ply 10+6.5 mil with externally-mounted adjustable damping ring | Single-ply 10 mil with sub-ply damping ring | Double-ply with felt-strip damping ring | Single-ply 10 mil with denser sub-ply damping ring |
| Damping behavior | External, adjustable (1-inch or 2-inch ring options) | Internal, fixed | Internal, felt strip | Internal, fixed (more damping than P3) |
| Attack character | Modern metal attack | Defined rock attack | Vintage Bonham boom | More focused than P3 |
| Best for | Modern metal, adjustable damping | Canonical rock kick | 70s rock, Bonham-style boom | Slightly more controlled rock kick |
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.
EMAD 2 Clear 22-inch Kick Batter
Why this one: The modern metal kick default with adjustable damping. Two foam ring options ship in the box, so you dial the kick from open and resonant to tight and controlled without changing the head.
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