Remo Powerstroke 77 Drumhead

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WWW.MUSICRADAR.COM/RHYTHM JULY 2016 |
U
nder the sticks this month is the
latest member of Remo’s
popular Powerstroke family.
Unlike its generic
Ambassadors, the new P77 (and its
close relatives), are drum specifi c.
Designated for use on kicks,
snares or indeed both are the
P3 for snares and kick and
Powerstroke X for snare. The
P4 (two-ply version of the P3)
is for snares and kicks, the
Powerstroke is kick only.
Build
All of Remo’s heads are made
from Mylar – a tough,
weather-resistant, fl exible fi lm.
The ‘77’ head has two 7-mil layers
of this material, awarding it the ‘77’
suffi x. These dual layers give additional
durability, help tame at least some of
the overtones and slightly darken the
overall sound.
Further resilience comes from a 5-mil
thick centre patch, bonded directly onto the
top of the upper layer – creating a virtual
triple-decked drum head. This patch is in the
optimum position, smack in the centre,
where it is likely to take frequent and most
powerful strikes – taking those hefty hits
within its stride.
The lower layer is a clear fi lm, while the
upper layer sports the familiar textured
white coating. This should add a little extra
warmth while also being ideal for brushes.
A thin, narrow band of 7-mil Mylar runs
internally around the entire perimeter of
the head, subtly calming any possible
overtone leftovers.
Hands On
The ‘77’ is fi tted onto a beefy 14"x6½" brass
shelled snare – it was long overdue and in
desperate need of replacement. This was
confi rmed by the immediate appearance of
creases and large dips, as soon as the
tension had been released.
From £18.50 Remo’s brand new, decidedly durable drumhead designed
specifi cally for the snare drum
REMO
POWERSTROKE
77 DRUMHEAD
WORDS: DAVE HOLMES
After the old head has been removed,
the shiny brass bearing edge is given a
once-over with some waxy polish and the
new head goes into position. Each of the
10 tuning bolts are fi nger-tightened so
we achieve even tensioning. Around two
complete turns later, with very few of
the usual cracking sounds, the head is
ready to roll.
Overall we hear a dry-sounding head,
with any slight ring produced by the brass
shell itself. The dryness and overall tone of
course will depend on the degree of tension
applied. With the drum cranked up – until
you feel the key may not be able to turn
anymore – the drum offers a penetrating
crack. Great for stunning accents; fabulous
for funk.
Rim shots are a drummers’ secret
PRICES
10": £18.50; 12": £19.80;
13": £20.40; 14": £21.80
HEAD MATERIAL
Mylar
CONSTRUCTION
Dual layers: 2 x 7-mil;
internal perimeter
dampening strip: 7-mil,
centre dot: 5-mil
DAMPENING
Internal perimeter strip
FINISHES
AVAILABLE
As with review
CONTACT
EMD Music (UK
Distributor)
01293 862612
www.remo.com
Essential spec
CENTRE-DOT
A 5-mil thick centre patch
bonded onto the upper
layer creates a virtual
triple-decked drum head
weapon here, with devastating punch and
signifi cant cut. When up against a large
brass ensemble or competing with high
levels of amplifi cation the snare more than
holds its own. Tuned lower it provides a thick
backbeat with its dry, dense sound. Overall,
managing to create a surprisingly versatile
drum sound.
VERDICT: The head provides a brilliant
stick response and sounds pleasing to
the ears. The drum possesses the much
sought-after snare sound with its
balance of tone and overtone.
BUILD QUALITY
PLAYABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY
RATING
RHY256.gear_remo.indd 89 18/05/2016 15:06