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I have a 11" LP ardiente shell and an old matador 11 1/4 shell, I want to make a custom set out of these the matador is 30 in, tall, the ardiente is 28in.
I want to cut the top of the matador to make them both the same height, I will need hardware for these, I will like any suggestions or ideas, also anyone selling any used hardware.
All input will be appreciated, thanks in advance.

Why wouldn't you cut the bottom?

I have to say I echo Mr. Flyin ... cutting the top means going though a lot more real estate, but most important - reshaping the bearing edge, which is way more tricky than just smoothing off the cut on the bottom.

I'm not sure if you are worried about losing the band [if there is one] on the bottom, I really wouldn't ... more looks than function.

Cheers

D

Would stands of different heights adjust that for you?

Or, are you looking for a project and a challenge instead?

mydogsowner wrote:Would stands of different heights adjust that for you?

Or, are you looking for a project and a challenge instead?

This sounds like a reasonable idea instead of cutting the drum. However, I have considered both approaches in the event that I end up with another conga of a different length. But if I was going to cut a conga down, I would definately cut it off on the bottom. I would take the head off and then flip it over onto a flat surface upside down. Then nail together a quick "fixture" to which I would put a pencil on it. The fixture (board, yard stick, whatever you make) would sit on the ground next to it, and then run it around (or twist the drum) and put a line around the bottom that is perfectly parallel to the top surface. I think I would use a Japanese saw or some other fine toothed saw, and carefully begin to cut around the drum just above the line to leave enough material to sand smooth. I've used this method before and it worked great for me.

But, I think what I would do instead is to use/build different height stands so I wasn't cutting the drum. If for no other reason than to retain the value of the drum in the event that I wanted to trade up. This stand is one that Schlegwerk sells and I have thought about making one of these for my djembe. They could be make at various heights to accomodate different length congas.

I really I do not know why would you want to cut one drum to make it 28" tall.
Drums of different height are played together all the the time. Now I know of
people cutting off from the top on a conga drum to make a bomba drum but
that is whole different ball game. Keep it intact and just play the hell out of it.

Reckon I would sell the Matador and get an Ardiente or sell the Ardiente and get a Matador. Seems like a lot of work with the outcome uncertain, who knows what the Matador will sound like after the chop job. Both those drums are easily sold and bought.

bongosnotbombs wrote:Reckon I would sell the Matador and get an Ardiente or sell the Ardiente and get a Matador. Seems like a lot of work with the outcome uncertain, who knows what the Matador will sound like after the chop job. Both those drums are easily sold and bought.

I agree, this project is not worth the payoff. We're talking about very inexpensive, easy to find drums.
Sell the Ardiente and look for a Matador. They are everywhere.

I just picked up a Matador conga and tumba (both) with traditional rims in excellent condition for $100 each.
The colors do not match but I have a special project in mind for them.
My friend from Paraguay is an exceptional artist and is going to sand and paint them, along with my quinto to make a terrific and unique set.

Find me a Matador Conga and Tumba for $100. They would go well with my vintage CP requinto and quinto!!

busyflyin wrote:Find me a Matador Conga and Tumba for $100. They would go well with my vintage CP requinto and quinto!!

It's actually 2 congas, just picked them up & paid $100 each.
http://kansascity.craigslist.org/msg/2704522991.html

Nice find!

you lucky dog! 2 matadors for 200???? excellent deal!

I thought of getting another Matador but my budget for this is very tight and these shell were given to me for free.
I thought about cutting the bottom but the top is a 1\4 inch bigger than the ardiente so I figure I make it 12inch that way the set would be 11 & 12.
I also need to find used hardware, new would be more than a used set of congas, or if anyone have any ideas on how much it would cost to get the old hardware rechromed.
I have been playing congas for a short time and I usually gig as a bongo player, I have eperience in wood working but doing this is a first for me.
Thank you guys for your input and I appreciate any help or Ideas.

these is what I am working on, the shells aree in good shape no cracks.

Does anyone know the diameter of the top of the shell on the Matador tumba?
help please......