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. Head Type Like shells, the drum heads come in two types. Traditionally, conga drum heads are made from calf skin. Many players prefer the warm tone and feel of these heads.
Synthetic skins are less pliable and unaffected by weather conditions, unlike the natural skins.
Synthetic skins are also require less tuning because they maintain a consistent tension. Obviously one of the most important features you should consider when purchasing your conga is how it sounds. Although each conga is capable of producing sounds in the low, mid and high ranges. The tone and timbre is affected by the material from which the conga is crafted and how the head is tuned, as well as the type, contour and height of the drum. It always pays to listen to the sound of a drum, preferably in a performance setting, to identify the sound quality you want.