The Best Bongo Drums
Percussion sets the tone for every type of music. From a fast and upbeat vibe to a slower melody, the drumbeat can make or break a tune. Incorporating bongo drums is an easy way to level-up your music for a bright and clear sound that perfectly complements any style. Whether you're a beginner and just learning the ropes or an advanced player looking to add another drum to their collection, we've got the perfect options for you. Check out our favorite bongo drums to find one that fits the bill.
Eastar 6″ and 7″ Bongo Drums
Made from high-quality wood and real animal skin, this drum has a natural timbre that sounds beautiful alone, with other instruments, or when paired with vocals. The adjustable drum can be used by beginners and professionals alike. It’s even smooth enough around the edges that it’s safe for children. The double-rim style also allows you to adjust the sound to make it a more versatile instrument for your collection.
Pros:
- The small size makes them lightweight enough to carry around
- Thanks to the animal skin top, they have a crisp and bright sound
- With a dark wood finish and shiny chrome detailing, the drums have a professional look
Cons:
- Because the top is made from natural skin, it may have blemishes or imperfections
- You may need to tune the drums when they first arrive
Musicube Bongo Drum Set, 2 Sets 6″ and 7″
The Beat of Your Own Drum
Expertly made, these bongo drums have smooth, black, powder-coated hardware and a natural, high-gloss wood finish for a professional overall look. The drum heads are made from natural skins for a more lively sound and offer up a diverse range of tones, allowing you to create dynamic music more easily. Plus, all the packaging and wood products are FSC-certified for a more eco-friendly approach that you can feel good about.
Pros:
- With animal skin drum heads, the drums have a bright and beautiful range of tones
- A tuning wrench is included to help you get the correct sound
- The drums and packaging are made from environmentally-friendly materials for a greener alternative
Cons:
- If you over-tune the drum, it’s possible the tuning bolt can snap
- When not in use, you should tune the drums to a relaxed state to protect the drum heads
First Act Percussion Pack
Learn to play the main percussion instruments with the help of this comprehensive set. Including a hand-held bongo drum, a full-size tambourine, and a pair of maracas, this pack offers the foundation you need to create any rhythm. Each piece is made from only the highest quality materials to ensure a long-lasting design, and they all even arrive pre-tuned so you can use them right out of the box.
Pros:
- Each of the three instruments is made from solid wood with a natural finish for beautiful and durable designs
- From children to adults, this set is the perfect percussion option for any skillset
- All of the instruments deliver crisp, clear sounds to create a strong and solid beat for any melody
Cons:
- The set is rated for ages 14 and up, so it’s not the best option for young children
- Instead of natural animal skin, the drum head is a synthetic material
Aklot Hand-Carved African Bongo Drum
Just Getting Started
This authentic drum is expertly hand-crafted from solid mahogany for an heirloom-quality design. The standard-size drum is the perfect popular option for beginners, giving them enough space to master the proper technique and still take it to gigs easily. Finished with a goatskin drum head for a sharp, clear sound, this drum makes it easy to elevate your percussion practice.
Pros:
- The goatskin drum head allows you to create different tones and timbres for a versatile percussion instrument
- Made from mahogany, the drum is durable and hefty for a long-lasting final product
- Beginners and pros alike can use this drum to achieve a bright and clear sound
Cons:
- You don’ get to pick the decorative design you’ll receive
Remo KD-5400-01 Kids Percussion Bongo Drum
Perfect Harmony
With a 5- and 6-inch bongo drum, this set is an ideal way to introduce percussion to your children. Durable enough to withstand frequent banging and playing, it was designed to last and can withstand years of use. The drum set even delivers a beautiful and bright sound that parents will enjoy, making it a smart option for the whole family.
Pros:
- You can play the drums with drumsticks or with your hands for versatility
- The drums are sturdy enough to withstand frequent use
- It’s designed for children, so the weight and scale is ideal for smaller hands
Cons:
- The drums are only available in a multicolored rainforest print, so there’s less variety
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bongo drums easy to play?
It’s fairly easy to pick up the bongo drums. You can begin to play as soon as they arrive, and even those without previous percussion experience can become proficient in just a few months.
How do you hit a bongo?
There are countless different methods for playing a hand drum. If you’re a beginner, try using one to three fingers to strike the drum head and let them bounce off. The fewer fingers you use, the fainter the sound. You can switch between the number of fingers as you play to create different rhythms and accents.
Can bongos be played with sticks?
Bongo drums are made to be played by hand. They can, however, also be played using sticks as long as you don’t strike the edge of the drum.
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