How To Measure A Timpani Drumhead

The Basics:

Remo Timpani heads are measured from the Outside Dimension or OD of the Flesh Hoop. Remove the counterhoop and measure the OD of the Flesh Hoop to determine the size you need.  If the dimension is a whole number such as 31”, as in this illustration, you would need a “3100” size drumhead.

The Details

Unlike standard batter and resonant drumheads, Remo Timpani head are measured from the Outside Dimension or OD of the Flesh Hoop. The Timpani Bowl and Counterhoop dimensions are not necessarily important. If the dimension is a whole number such as 31”, as in this illustration, you would need a 3100 size drumhead.

 If the OD dimensions are not whole numbers such as 29”, 31”, and 34” but are incremental, then it is best to measure the OD of the head in a few different locations and average the numbers. You can center the drumhead on the timpani bowl and use the tuning lugs or struts as guides to measure in different locations across the drumhead. If the measurements are incremental then you would use this guide to determine the size/part number:

We will use 31” for this chart but sizes can be anywhere between 20”-35”. They are broken down into 1/16” increments.

 3100 = 31”

3101= 31-1/16”

3102= 31-1/8”

3103= 31-3/16”

3104= 31-1/4”

3105= 31-5/16

3106= 3-3/8”

3107= 31-7/16

3108= 31-1/2”

3109= 31-9/16

3110= 31-5/8”

3111= 31-11/16”

3112= 31-3/4”

3113= 31-13/16”

3114= 31-7/8”

3115= 31-15/16”

 If the original drumhead for the drum is not available, then measure the counterhoop Inside Dimension or ID by removing it from the drum and turning it upside down. It is best to measure the largest ID in a few different locations across and average the sizes. The Timpani bowl size is not necessarily important.

The part number Prefix and Suffix determine the type of head, such as if it is custom or standard, with or without insert rings, type of insert ring, and film type. Once you have determined the correct size(s), contact your Remo dealer or the Remo Customer Support team to determine what insert ring and film would best suit your needs.