There are a few major considerations to look into when planning on purchasing your first conga. These are listed below. If you have other questions or concerns you should seek the advice of professionals and an authorized LP dealer or customer service representative. Design Conga heads were traditionally made from cowhide and bull hide. When LP brought conga production to Thailand, water buffalo was substituted.
Many top players prefer the warmth of sound of natural heads and a wider range of sounds.
These natural heads absorb water and in so doing, their tone changes. They also tend to stretch over time when tuning is not relaxed during extended periods when the drums aren't being played. Another feature to consider are the two rim variations that LP offers - traditional and the Comfort Curve II Rim design. The traditional rim design is favored by players who grew up using the old-fashioned rim or just like the idea of using the same type of instruments that congueros past used. The Comfort Curve II Rim design, which contours with the player's hand, might be preferable for some who are just learning coordination and basic technique, although many professionals swear by it as well.