Guide to Buying Bongos

Bongo drums (or just bongos) are a percussion instrument typically constructed of wood with a drum head made of animal skin. They consist of two different sized drums, typically paired in sizes 6" and 7" or 7" and 8", that are attached to each other. The larger bongo drum is called the "hembra" or female, while the smaller drum is known as the "macho" or male. Bongos can also be made of fiberglass, although professional players prefer the richer, warmer sound of wood. Synthetic drum heads can also be found.

Bongos are played by striking the drum's head with the bare palm and/or fingers to produce a high-pitched sound, although drumsticks or brushes may also be used. Traditionally, a seated bongo player will place the bongo drum between his or her knees, applying light pressure to keep them up. However, you can also mount them on a bongo stand if you prefer to stand while playing, or use a shorter bongo stand designed for seated playing.

The wood most typically used to make bongo drums is Siam Oak due to its durability and warm sound. Buffalo skin is the most common material used for the drum head and produces rich lows and crisp highs. The outer shell of the bongo drums are usually coated and polished to produce a finish that serves to strengthen the material as well as add beauty.

The delicate sounds of bongo drums can be heard in many types of music including Jazz, Latin Jazz, Salsa, Rumba, Merengue, Mambo, Reggae, Soul, Funk, and even Rock-n-Roll. Some of the world's best bongos are made by Latin Percussion (better known as LP), Toca Percussion, and Tycoon Percussion.

• Find bongos made by LP (Latin Percussion).
• Find bongos made by Toca Percussion.
• Find bongos made by Tycoon Percussion.



• See more information on how to choose bongos.
• Learn how to play bongos.
• See also how to tune bongos.
• See also how to care for your bongos.