What is a bad sound from a conga?

[bongoron]

Hey folks! Here's a different twist on a common topic. I guess we can all access some kind of recording to deterrmine a good sounding conga. Unfortunately, there may be no such recording to play in a music store when you go to try a set.

Highly experienced guys, what would be your least favorite sound from one? Be descriptive..."like a wet paper towel wrapped around a cardboard tube" etc. Or,
"Couldn't get an open tone out of it" or other sound problems associated with poor quality. Cosmetically, they are all pretty good these days. Still, a good sound is much more important...and old beat up ones from certain manufacturers always sound good. Clearly size makes no real difference, as the standards seem to fluctuate from age to age.

Also, if possible, attach this description to a brand and model you played once that sounded like it. In addition, tell how you overcame it (if necessary for a gig, or something) and why you think it sounded that way in the first place. I think this info would be useful to first time buyers in helping them avoid potential difficulty.

If you like, use the same detail to describe a great sounding one..."Slaps that sound like snapping dry sticks" ... whatever you think describes the sounds avaiable when experienced hands use proper technique.

Thanks...

God bless!

-Ron

[Master2987]

Clearly size makes no real difference, as the standards seem to fluctuate from age to age.

Sorry, a bit off topic, but...

You are right on the money on this one.

I think in general “the standard” has gotten bigger over time...like most other things (cars, houses, people, etc).

Some people still do get hung-up on the size though. I am one of them.

The sizes of today seem a bit ridiculous to me…11.75” for a conga? 12.5” for a tumba? Why can’t manufactures use full numbers.

[Bataboom]

Verve cheapest thing you can by online, the skins looked like beef jerky the things looked good from far but the sound was like hitting an upside down bucket with your hand which Im sure might have sounded better then these jerky skins they had on this thing.