The essence of a true Bongó

[caballoballo]

This old Warrior has been with me for the pass 3 years, use to belong to Omelenko and is about 24 years old. Any where I play others Bongoceros alway has something to say about the old school sound of this old guy. Recently I installed a new set of crowns made by 3A percussion in Colombia, only cost me $70 instead of the higher exagerated price wanted by Mathew Smith, Resolution Drums ,Ect. Of all 4 Bongos I own,this is the one I would not let go.

[caballoballo]

Another picture with the El Piernas trade mark on the bottom hoops.

[caballoballo]

Skins Pictures

[Omelenko1]

An incredible sounding bongo'. To this day I don't know what kind of wood it is, I don't think is caoba, it must be a hard precious wood from Colombia, when I had it a Colombian bongocero from Joe Arroyo told me it was "palo santo". Is always good to have and pass on, I'm glad someone who appreciates top of the line quality has it. When it comes to sound that particular vintage El Piernas refuses to take a back seat, its a bit heavy though, but once you get use to it is no problem. Is good to see the old champ again. I think the hembra still has the "mula" head I put on it. Circa very early 1980's. Here is a photo of when I had it.

Dario

[caballoballo]

Omelenko, que bolá. Yes indeed was kind of heavy but with the new crowns is about 1/2 to 3/4 pound lighter,should be around 11.5 pounds. As you said,once you get use to the weight is not a problem. Still has the thick Mule skin on the Hembra which shall not be change.

[No.2-1820]

I like the new crowns but do wonder why you changed the old ones, they look more old school to me. I'd have changed the bottoms if anything.

Barrie

[vinnieL]

Beautiful bongo you have there.

[caballoballo]

NO.2-1820, The reason I changed the crowns is that they were not round anymore. Some of us including me are looking for perfection or a better look. I still have the old ones, another set made of stainless steel & 1 set that was given to me by TwinsBongo which belonged to the Osiris Bongo . If anybody is interested on those crowns and is willing to refurbish them,let me know.