I think it's all a matter of opinion. I mean my 1938 Ludwig & Ludwig kit has tacked on calf skin bottom head, new heads on top. Sounds great. I honestly prefer modern snare side heads. You get so much more sensitivity and life.
I agree!
Experimentation is the best way to find "that sound" you want.
Well, just thought I'd say I've ordered a calf batter from Majetone ( industries) UK based. Seems like he's been making them for a year or so, He's able to make a slightly larger fit, tucking it onto steam bent maple hoops instead of his aluminium ones, I like the idea of wood ones. I also thinking of sending drum to nick Hopkins vintage drums so he can give it a good cleaning, I'm lazy and unexpeirienced!- tension rods are binding a bit- just don't like having to send it although by courier though.
Ah Nick's a good man!
I make calfskin heads and have several drums with calf on top and plastic reso heads and they sound fantastic. If you are playing in places where humidity is a concern but want to use plastic then this is a good option because you only have to worry about tuning the batter heads. Always arrive extra early to let the heads acclimate to the room you are playing in.
