I was just going through the website of Manito Percussion and thought these skins might be of interest to some of you. The skin on your drum makes a huge difference in the sound quality of your instrument and unfortunately many drums, even high end conga drums have the skins, (or “heads” as some people call them), selected randomly.

If you are not happy with the sound of your drum for any reason or if you have had your skins on your drums for over 20 years (like on several of mine) it might be time for a change. You can consult with ryan Manito Wendell himself via e-mail or the phone and he will be happy to give you a recommendation of skins for your drum. HE even has pre mounted skins for several popular conga drum models such as the LP Matador congas and LP Matador bongos as well. I just ordered 4 for my old LP’s and also one mule skin for my djembe.

“Manito Percussion’s Opaque Steer Skins are made of 100% American Steer Hide. These skins are made with a unique process to prepare skins for maximum resonance as well as to defeat competing overtones which can interfere with the overall sustain of the drum”
http://www.manitopercussion.com/skins/

Manito Percussion now offers Mule skins for bongos, dunduns, djembes, bata, barriles de bomba and other drums.  Mule skin has a higher density than Steer which gives it a very distinct and bright sound profile.  Mule sings with a very clear tone and works well on Bongos(especially on the macho or small head), Tamboras, Dununs, Barriles, and Djembes.  It is also an excellent skin for Bata drums.  Mule skin has a translucent amber color and smooth polished feel that makes slaps very crisp and easy.  These skins are 1mm(10 sheets of paper) thick or less and not recommended for congas unless you are looking for a more “Bomba” type sound.

Manito Percussion company also has a large  selection of premounted bongo heads that fit LP and Matador bongos.  Skin choices include Calf, Mule and Goat.  Mule and Goat skins are intended for the Macho(small) side and are thin(.5mm-1mm).  Calf skins can be Thin or Medium(1mm-1.5mm).  The skins are premounted and stretched on cold rolled 1/4″ Stainless Steel rings that will never rust or warp.