Port Hole?

[JesusMySavior]

Hi there! I'm looking for a new resonant head for my drum kit, because my resonant head ripped when I foolishly tried cutting a hole and stuffing a blanket in there (oops).

Anyways I'm looking at heads preferrebly with port holes for mic'ing already cut in so I don't run the risk of screwing up again.

However,

this head

http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Aquarian-Force-II-Resonant-Bass-Drum-Head?sku=449356

has a port "ring" where you can place the "port hole" where desired. How does that work? You still have to cut the hole, right? Or am I not understanding this?


I also thought about this one :

http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Aquarian-Small-Hole-Black-Regulator-Drumhead-?sku=449326


I'd like to stay within $20-$30 for a resonant head as I'm on a budget. Aquarian makes some nice heads for the dough, but I was more curious about the first one there.

Any tips on HOW to cut a port hole for the future? Thanks!!

[criz p. critter]

There are lots of threads on this subject already. Just do a search.

The Aquarian Force II looks pretty good.

Or get a plain head and "Bass Drum O". You can get them in various sizes and colors. Get the smallest one (2") for the best sound. 4" is perfect if you need to put a mic inside the kick.
http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Bass-Drum-Os-Bass-Drum-Port?sku=445410

Cutting a hole is pretty simple. Lots of people use the "hot tin can" method. Heat up a can and just rotate the edge against the head. Cutting out with an X-Acto knike is pretty easy too: just find something round the same size as the hole and cut around it. Or trace the circle on the head and freehand it. Or there is this handy gizmo:
http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Bass-Drum-Os-Hole-Cutter?sku=443322

But don't be afraid of the actual hole-cutting. It's a piece of cake.