When you install a new head check the bearing edge and remove any particles or dirt that may have built up while playing. Place the head on the shell and turn it slowly to check for inconsistencies in the head or the shell. If ahead is imperfect from the factory, your drum tuning is doomed from the start.
Before replacing the tension rods add good quality nylon washers which helps the drum head stay in tune. Turn all the tension rods by hand only until there is resistance. Using your drum key, tighten them in a criss-cross pattern to assure even tension and head seating. Press the center of the head to seat it on the seat properly.
Before replacing the tension rods add good quality nylon washers which helps the drum head stay in tune. Turn all the tension rods by hand only until there is resistance. Using your drum key, tighten them in a criss-cross pattern to assure even tension and head seating. Press the center of the head to seat it on the seat properly.
When the head becomes tight tap just in front of each tension rod about an inch or so from the edge of the drum. You will be listening for an even pitch from lug to lug. Use trial and error to adjust the batter and resonant heads so they vibrate in unison.
Find the sweet spot and use even tension on both heads. This will give you a pure tone which is in tune with itself. Use slight variations between top and bottom tension to alter sound your taste.
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