Manufacturers, brands, skins, maintenance, stands, sticks, michrophones and other accessories for congueros can be discussed into this forum ...... leave your experience or express your doubts!
Have been lurkin' around for a while, and thought I could talk congas with you guys a bit...
While surfing a few days ago I stumbeled across Isla Percussion. They make congas that have that "californian" vibe to them, look similar to the old Gon Bops and seem reasonably priced considered that every thing is "made in USA" (manufactured in L.A.)
There are literaly dozends of conga manufacturers out there, but these just look realy cool IMHO...
Do you guys know them? Ever played one? What do you think?
Hey try checking out a set of congas made by ISLA Percussions. They are based in So. California. I purchased a set of 3 (quinto,conga,tumba) last year. I am extremely happy with my purchase. These drums are similar to the original Gon Bop or Junior Tirado congas that were made in the 1970's. Their prices are really competive. I would never buy anything else but ISLA. The drums are handmade in the USA. The staves or shell of the drum are cut to the shape, (not steam bent) which maintains the structural integrity of the wood. Also, the hardware are all made of stainless steel. R u tired of seeing chipped chrome or paint on your drums? Stainless steel solves that problem. In my opinion these drums will last several generations and then some. The best quality of these drums is the tone that they produce. Just listen to some recordings of the Cuban rumba groups in the 1960's era and that is exactly what you get. if you are interested call Mario @ 310-916-3425 or website http://www.islapercussions.com
Wow, it looks like they sound realy good... What finish do you have on yours? The only thing that's a bit funny on them is their shape... a bit strange... particularly at the base of the drums...