How to Buy Bongo Drums

Bongo drums are single-headed drums that are joined in the middle by a center block. Not all bongo drums are equal nor do they project the same sound. The most expensive isn't always the best, either. There are several things to look for when you buy bongo drums. Follow these steps to learn what they are.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Buy bongo drums that have a wooden center block. Bongo drums with plastic center blocks can break easily with too much pressure.
2. Look for bongo drums that have heavy-duty hardware. The tuning ring that is located at the bottom of the bongo drum should have hook-shaped lug nuts that are able to tolerate the tension that is necessary to tune it high.
3. Make sure that the rims of the bongo drums are welded into shape. If they are stamped then they will bend easily resulting in separation. This will affect the sound of the bongo drums.
4. Check that the tuning ring and the shell are meshed together. There shouldn't be space between the tuning ring and the shell as the sound will become distorted as you tune it up and down over time.
5. Seek out bongo drums with hardwood or fiberglass shells as they project sound well. Buy bongo drums that are free of cracks or gaps in the shell.
6. Try out the bongo drums before you buy them. Listen for a dull or metallic sound that means the bongo drums are of poor quality.

Tips & Warnings

• The hardware on the bongo drums should be made of steel and not aluminum. Some types of aluminum are of poor quality and prone to breakage.