Detuning of Plastic Heads, Necessary?

[salcero1]

There have been posts by some forum members that suggest the detuning of plastic heads isn't necessary. I for one treat the plastic heads as if they were natural rawhide heads. The main reason is too eliminate the tension stressed on the shells to prolong their structural integrity. Personally, I like tuning the macho to a fairly high pitch. In addition I don't feel like purchasing the same type of bongo every 6 or so years down the line due to cracks, warps or splits. Heck they may not even manufacture the same bongo model when needed. I would rather replace tuning lugs due to wear and tear than to have to replace an entire set of bongos through normal usage. It doesn't take a whole lot of time to detune and I believe this is a great preventive maintenance practice to keep equipment at it's optimum performing condition. Do you agree? Responses are most welcome, Thank you.

Jorge.

[RitmoBoricua]

I detune my bongo heads regardless.

[CongaTick]

Tune up. Tune down. Always. Practice. Gig. Skins or plastic.

[niallgregory]

I dont detune my plastic heads , never have tbh . The bongo should be able to maintain its shell regardless imo .

[KING CONGA]

Greetings salsalero. I have owned over ten congas that have all had synthetic heads, Remo heads. Not once did I ever detune any of them, never had a need to. Heads never got stretched, congas staid round, and for the most part, staid tuned. Once in a very rare while I did have to tune just a little bit on maybe one drum. I have other friends that do exactly the same thing and also have not had a problem.
I once spoke to the rotie of PONCHO SANCHEZ, who is sponsored by REMO, who told me exactly what I’m telling you, never de tune except tune once in a while.
Many will tell you that, that is the beauty about synthetic heads, the need to not have to detune, and I agree 100%.
Anyways, my and others 2 cents