Our standard HEDge drum skin is a modified REMO Skyntone®, because this drum skin comes as closest as possible to the qualities of a natural drum skin in the bodhran area.

The sound character is warm, present, defined with moderate attack, which makes the overall sound subtle.

The appearance is very reminiscent of a natural drumhead.

The special taping technique and surface treatment are crucial factors for the balanced sound and natural feel.

Natural drum skins that are not pre-mounted under tension are sensitive to environmental conditions, particularly humidity. They can absorb and release moisture from the air, which may lead to contraction or warping. In extreme cases, this can render the skins unusable.

To protect the drum skins during transport and storage, each one is delivered in a resealable vacuum bag. This bag allows for easy re-storage, helping to maintain the integrity of unmounted skins. The vacuum valve enables you to reseal the bag using a standard vacuum cleaner—detailed instructions are provided on or within the packaging.

For natural skins, simply storing them in the sealed bag, without removing air, is typically sufficient. This prevents moisture absorption and ensures the skin retains its shape.

In the case of synthetic skins, especially HEDge skins, creating a vacuum is recommended. This helps prevent the black tape from peeling off—a risk that is more likely with newer skins, as the adhesive takes time to reach full strength.

Since 2014, various methods have been explored to prevent unmounted drum skins from deforming. Initially, a thick plywood plate with centering holes was used, secured to the ChangeHED skin by a metal tensioner. While this approach was effective, it was costly, complex, heavy, and did not protect the skins from environmental factors.

In a later attempt, the transport plate was made thinner and held in place with rubber plugs. This solution was more affordable, easier to assemble, and lighter, but the drum skin remained exposed to changes in ambient climate.

After extensive testing, the vacuum bag method has proven to be the most effective. Though vacuum pressure may cause slight contraction of the skin, the playing surface largely retains its shape. More importantly, the vacuum seals the drum skin from the environment, which is the key to preventing deformation.

An added benefit is that if the vacuum bag becomes damaged, it can be easily replaced with inexpensive, locally available clothing vacuum bags.