Buying Congas - advice needed.

  • Thread starter Thread starter Mr Funk
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Mr Funk

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Hi there

I hope to buy my 1st pair of Congas, and I want something half decent as I hope to record them. Although I have not had any training, I'm not bad on congas and bongos, but if anyone can also recommend a video/DVD that would help me learn more about different strokes and techniques, this would also be appreciated?

Thing is, I don't have much cash, so I only have a few options. I have seen a used pair of old Natal fibreglass congas that look in very good condition (see pic), but I really wanted wood, as I think as a rule, wood sounds better and fibreglass is used more in live work, due to its louder, punchier tone? Are these Natal congas an exception to the rule, as I know they are highly regarded, or will a wood pair still sound better?

I could also go for a used pair of Meinl Marathon Exclusives, which I have seen advertised or a new pair of LP Fuego’s, which sound nice for the money.

Which would you guys recommend and are there any better options? My budget is £300 for 2.

Cheers
 
Here is the picture of the used Natal congas. They also come with collapsible stands and gig cases.
 

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those congas look decent.
id get a set of lp's to start on and move up later. i would go with wood over fiber.

i got a "how to play conga" video from my local library here. i copied the tape and returned it. mabyee you can try going to a library.
 
I like the library idea, can't believe I didn't think of it!

I know that these natal cubana congas are quite prized and have a distinct sound, but I just wonder if the fibreglass with not do my recordings any favours?

Cheers
 
I use fiberglass congas - since I got them primarily for live performance I went with f-glass for the cut. However, I've used them on 1/2 dozen studio sessions with no problem at all.

In fact the extra cut the f-glass provides really helps it find a place in the mix.

Naturally, like any accoustic instrument - the room sound plays a large part. If the room has a warm sond - or a controlled sound with limited reflections, f-glass should sound fine. If the room is overly bright sounding it could highlight the cut of the drums too much.

Regarding video/DVD - anything by Giovanni, he is an absolute master of the conga.
 
Make sure you use real skin heads, and not some polymer crap. On congas (as with most hand percussion instruments), the head can make a literal world of difference.

I agree with the idea of starting with a decent set of LP Congas and moving up from there. Maybe check out eBay and see what kinds of deals they have at the moment.
 
Natal have a new line out soon called the 'Spirit' series. They are Oakwood and come in 10" + 11" or 11" & 12" pairs including separate stands starting below £300! I think I may give these British made congas a go, as I know Natal are well respected. I do like the sound of the LP Fuego's though. Has anyone tried these?
 
Often the less expensive congas come with heads made from water buffalo skins. If this is the case, re-skin them with some high quality cow skins and they will sound great. The skins make a huge difference in the tone!
 
Anyone used Meinl Marathon Exclusives? Are they a good middle range conga?
 
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