When should you change your reso heads?

It's a question as old as time! When should you change the resonant heads on your kit? If your name is Phil Collins, the answer is NEVER (ba-dum ching), but if you're like most drummers you will definitely need to change them out from time to time. 

The frequency with which a drummer should change their resonant heads can vary depending on several factors, including playing style, and personal preference. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Wear and Tear: Regular inspection of the resonant drum heads is essential. Look for signs of wear, such as dents or tears. Also, make sure that the head itself is not sitting "flush" with the hoop of the drum. If it is, you've stretched the head beyond it's ability to hold good tonality. 

2. Sound Quality: Over time, drumheads can lose their tonal quality and resonance. If you notice a significant decrease in the desired sound, or if the drum doesn't produce a clear and focused tone even after tuning, it might be a good idea to change the resonant head.

3. Playing Style: Drummers who play with more forceful techniques tend to put more stress on the drumheads. Consequently, they may need to change their resonant heads more frequently compared to drummers with a lighter touch.

4. Frequency of Use: Regular drumming, such as daily practice sessions, gigs, or touring, can wear out drumheads faster. If you're an active drummer who plays regularly, you may find that you need to change your resonant heads more often to maintain optimal sound quality. Most gigging drummers will change their reso heads 2-3 times every year while drummers who play exclusively at home might opt for only 1-2 changes per year.

Ultimately, there is no set timeframe for changing your resonant heads. It's important to regularly assess the condition of your reso heads, listen closely for any changes in tonal quality or resonance, and make replacements as necessary to maintain the desired sound and performance from your drums.