Well those Jam Blocks are still effing loud, it only takes a little tap with a thin timbale stick,
they also sound like crap if you only lightly touch them, you don't get that hollow sound you want.
A guy we rumba with has a stand with bells, bamboo and one of these jam blocks. It's okay
but has that kind of artificial sound and can get really loud. It sure cuts through though, for sure.
I still prefer the wood blocks. Mine is pretty big, smaller ones are more quiet.
They come in several sizes, each with a different pitch and volume level.
I personally really prefer the sound, sounds like wood you know, more natural.
Here is my "Clave Machine" I put together, Big ol' LP wood block.
I have 2 beaters for it.
One is a little too soft and the other a little too hard
Next one will be just right