Timpani Head Size Guide: Fit Chart for Adams, Yamaha, Premier & Majestic Timpani
Choosing the correct timpani head is essential for getting the best performance from your instrument. A head that doesn’t fit properly can lead to poor sound quality, tuning issues, and long-term damage to your drums. Whether you're replacing Remo timpani heads, switching to Evans timpani heads, or considering calfskin timpani heads, knowing your exact size requirements can save time and money.
This guide will help you match timpani head sizes to bowl dimensions for popular brands including Adams, Majestic, Premier, and Yamaha—and includes direct links to replacement heads and complete timpani sets.
Why Timpani Head Size Matters
A proper-fitting timpani head is critical for both sound and structural integrity. Even a 0.5" discrepancy can cause the head to sit incorrectly, which may affect pitch range, tuning stability, or even damage the counterhoop and bowl.
Additionally, some models require extended collar timpani heads, while others use standard-fit options. Even though many timpani follow the "2-inch rule," it's not universal—so it’s crucial to check your brand and series before buying.
Adams Timpani Head Sizes
Adams timpani generally follow the 2-inch rule, especially in these popular series:
- Adams Universal Timpani
- Adams Revolution Timpani
- Adams Professional Generation II
- Adams Symphonic Generation II
| Bowl Size | Timpani Head |
|---|---|
| 20" | 22" Head |
| 23" | 25" Head |
| 26" | 28" Head |
| 29" | 31" Head |
| 32" | 34" Head |
Majestic Timpani Head Sizes
Majestic timpani use standard sizing for most series:
| Bowl Size | Timpani Head |
|---|---|
| 20" | 22" Head |
| 23" | 25" Head |
| 26" | 28" Head |
| 29" | 31" Head |
| 32" | 34" Head |
Premier Timpani Head Sizes
Premier timpani come in two main series, each requiring slightly different head sizes depending on the bowl dimensions.
Concert & Pro-Symphonic Series
| Bowl Size | Timpani Head |
|---|---|
| 22.5" | 23 8/16" Head |
| 25" | 26" Head |
| 28" | 29" Head |
| 30" | 31" Head |
| 32" | 33" Head |
Premier Elite Series
| Bowl Size | Timpani Head |
|---|---|
| 22.5" | 26" Head |
| 25" | 28" Head |
| 28" | 31" Head |
| 30" | 33" Head |
| 32" | 35" Head |
Yamaha Timpani Head Sizes
Yamaha timpani (3300, 4300, 6000, 7300, and 9000 series) generally follow the 2-inch rule:
| Bowl Size | Timpani Head |
|---|---|
| 20" | 22" Head |
| 23" | 25" Head |
| 26" | 28" Head |
| 29" | 31" Head |
| 32" | 34" Head |
How to Measure a Timpani Head
If you're unsure what size to order, follow these steps:
- Remove the counterhoop and timpani head from your drum.
- Measure the outer diameter (OD) of the flesh hoop.
- Match the measurement to the recommended sizes above.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right timpani head is vital to preserve your drum’s tone and structure. Whether you're playing on Adams, Majestic, Premier, or Yamaha timpani, we have a wide range of heads to suit your needs:
