New heads, what’s your process?

[Seb77]

I don't tension the head over the point where I want to use it, but I do stretch it by pressing onto it with the palm of my hand. I think the head collar on the inside of the bearing edge should not be bent.
When tightening, I try to get an even pitch alla round at low tension already. I listen for the moment when the lowest pitch gets established, and press the head for the first time, then true the head pitch all around at this point, then repeat the process until the pressing doesn't chajge the pitch anymore. Once its even, I just tighten the head in small, even increments. Doesn't have to be a star pattern, just the same increment on all t-rods. Press the head again, then correct any discrepancies.

 

[bolweevil]

My experience with new heads generally involves semi-intense neurosis as to whether the new head makes the drum sound better, worse, or just different (this is a bit more severe if the drum is of the snare variety). I adjust after a few days or weeks.

 

[florian1]

My simple process:
1. Remove old head
2. Inspect bearing edge and tighten lug screws
3. wipe down interior and exterior, hoops, etc…why not?
4. Install new head
5. Loosely tighten each lug
6. Seat new head by applying pressure to center with palm
7. Tighten head to desired tension
8. Play
9. Recheck and retighten after a day or so

I also recheck and tune prior to any gig…for some reason my Ludwig snares always have a tension rod get loose…

Ive done it this way for nearly 50 years...never an issue.

F