I've finally decided on a set!

[hoofbeats]

thanks for all the advice over the last few days guys. It's been very helpful. After months of wanting, weeks of saving, and days of deep soulsearching I've decided. I'm buying a set of LP classics (3) and a stand. I understand I don't need 3 to start on, but I've got the money now. . . I'll make my order probably tommorrow, and then it's the waiting game.

[Loman]

Congrats on your decision. I was in your shoes for quite sometime and the LP Classics were one of my options also. I purchased the Gon Bops Tumbao Pro Series congas in mahogany. The drums are beautiful and look just like the California Series. I’m very happy with the Gon Bops now that the heads starting to break in and starting to give me the desired sound.

I think you said you had a budget of approx $750. Three new Classics will take you over a gran. If you got the money go for it. The look of the congas will always be attractive, and for some reason I think they give a better sound than the Giovanni’s.

[hoofbeats]

Yeah I've been working crazy hours so I can afford the classics. I originally didn't understand the real price range on these instruments. I was sold on the matadors, but I said "go big or go home". The classics were only a couple hundred more and so nice lookin. Plus I don't get to buy real nice stuff for myself very often.

[JulianM]

Can't go wrong with Classics, I owned the trio. I would strongly recommend replacing the heads with Remo Synthetic heads if you play in a loud band.

[Sakuntu]

Yup, after much shopping around, I opted for 3 classics myself...came to $1400 with 3 bags and tax. I know some folks here dis the "made in Thailand" drums...and I know they aren't as good as they used to be...but they still are professional quality drums that should last a lifetime. I used to play on a bucket for pete sake! I got the natural wood with chrome hardware...what are you getting?

[OLSONGO]

Bros, do not hesitate to look in Ebay, especially for classics.

recently I let go of 3 mint condition classics, and I mean mint for $900.

Paz,
Olsongo

[congamyk]

If I had to do it over again I would buy the classic fiberglass. They are the best drums out there IMO. You don't need to replace the heads as they are louder and cut much better. If you are going for a warmer sound and better looks, the natural classics are the best overall value. I don't know why anyone would say they are not made as well, they are the same drum, no difference.

The distinction is between the "Guitar Center" Classic II's (red lava look & Gen II rim-yuck) .... they ARE inferior

...but the original classics play as well and are as well built as they were 10 years ago. I recently bought another full set on sale and they play and look just as good as my old set from 14 years ago.

[Gallichio]

Great choice! Enjoy your new congas and explore all the possibilities with 3 drums!
:laugh:

[AlexV]

congratulations on your purchase! the very first thing you will want to do is replace the skins. they are completely worthless except for the flesh hoop. you should change at least the quinto and the conga at first if cost is an issue after the big spending. it will make all the difference in the sound which is the most important aspect. don't be surprised when they sound ringy when you first tune them. LP could care less about the skins they put on there.