What the calculator does
The desired fundamental is the pitch you hear near the center after both heads are open and interacting. A lug tap isolates a smaller area of one head and is normally higher. This planner multiplies the desired fundamental by one of four published starting relationships: 1.75×/1.75×, 1.5×/1.85×, 1.4×/2.0×, or 1.2×/2.3×.
Those ratios help you reach a testable first setup; they do not predict a finished sound. Diameter is recorded with the plan but is not part of the multiplication. It matters because a target that works on one size may be outside another drum's useful range.
Safety and limits
- The calculator warns above 400 Hz for a thin snare-side head; choose a lower plan instead of continuing to tighten.
- Stop if a rod binds, a hoop distorts, or a head will not seat evenly.
- Manufacturer instructions and the condition of your drum take priority over any estimate.
Measure the result
Use light, repeatable taps near the lugs. Then unmute both heads, play the drum normally, and record the values that actually work.
Follow the measurement guideMethod source
The ratios and the distinction between overall drum frequency and lug frequency are adapted from the Overtone Labs tune-bot tuning guide. Remo's tuning basics are also linked because head choice, drum construction, and personal sound goals make every result contextual.