This is one of the most interesting, different heads I've used.  It appears to be clear at first glance, but actually it has several "bubbles" all over the surface.  I must clarify, they are not actual bubbles that are raised at all; the surface is smooth as any drumhead.  There are just some air pockets in the oil layer between the plies, which is intentional and is not a defect.  Weird, but not a bad thing.  The sound?  Warm, with short sustain.  A Remo Diplomat this is most definitely not.  Almost a "thick" sound, IMO.  Very 70's arena rock.  Though I like the sound, I found it was a bit hard to get a definite tuning pitch.  On the upside, however, I found that I didn't need to use Moongels, O-Rings, or any other dampener on my it.  Another plus: it is as tough as nails.  I've beat the crap out of this head and it still sounds the same as day one.  Jazzers should stay away, but for rock, blues, and bar band drummers, this head is great.