What is the shell material of the LP Tunable Bendir?

The drum features a 6-ply Poplar shell. This choice of wood provides a balance of lightweight handling and resonant tonal qualities.

What are the dimensions of this specific frame drum?

The drum has a diameter of 20 inches and a depth of 4 inches. This size is ideal for producing deep bass tones and a large playing surface.

How does the tuning system work?

It utilizes an internal tuning system supported by a 12-ply tuning ring. This allows the player to adjust the tension of the synthetic head without external hardware protruding from the shell.

Does this drum feature a snare effect?

Yes, it includes two adjustable strings. These strings sit against the head to create the traditional buzzing sound associated with Bendir drums.

What kind of head does the LP Tunable Bendir use?

It is equipped with a synthetic head. Synthetic heads are preferred for their durability and their ability to stay in tune despite changes in temperature or humidity.

What finish is applied to the shell?

The drum features a black-to-natural fade finish. This provides a modern and aesthetically striking look compared to plain wood finishes.

Is a tuning key included with the purchase?

Yes, a tuning key is included. It features an 'Easy-Clip' design to ensure it stays attached to the drum so it is not lost.

How much does the LP Tunable Bendir typically cost?

The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 226. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.

What is the purpose of the 12-ply tuning ring?

The 12-ply ring provides extra structural reinforcement. It ensures the drum can withstand the pressure of the tuning system for long-term durability.

Who is the primary target audience for this instrument?

Latin Percussion describes the target audience as modern artisans and music enthusiasts. It is designed for those seeking a blend of traditional authenticity and modern innovation.

Can the buzz effect be adjusted or turned off?

The two strings are adjustable, allowing the musician to refine the pitch and tone. This precision allows for different levels of snare engagement.

How does the size compare to other frame drums like the Remo Lollipop drum?

At 20 inches, the LP Bendir is much larger than the Remo 10-inch Lollipop Frame Drum. This results in a deeper, more professional-grade sound suited for complex performances.

Gear article

Latin Percussion LP Frame Drums Tunable Bendirs 20" x 4"

The Latin Percussion LP Frame Drums Tunable Bendirs 20" x 4" is a modern interpretation of the traditional North African frame drum, designed for contemporary percussionists. It features a 6-ply Poplar shell with a 12-ply tuning ring and an internal tuning system for precise pitch control.

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Overview and Construction

The LP Tunable Bendir is part of Latin Percussion's frame drum series, balancing traditional design with modern manufacturing techniques. The drum is built around a 4-inch deep, 6-ply Poplar shell, providing a lightweight yet resonant frame. To ensure structural integrity and stability during high-tension tuning, the shell is reinforced with a 12-ply tuning ring.

Visually, the instrument is finished in a black-to-natural fade, intended to provide a professional aesthetic for live performances and studio settings. The drum is equipped with a synthetic head, which offers greater tuning stability across different environmental conditions compared to traditional animal skins.

Buzz and Tuning Mechanisms

A defining feature of the Bendir is its internal snare system. This model includes two adjustable strings stretched across the underside of the head. These strings allow the player to introduce a buzzing overtone, characteristic of traditional Moroccan music.

The tuning is managed through an internal system, allowing for a smooth outer profile. This is facilitated by a dedicated tuning key. For logistical convenience, the drum includes an 'Easy-Clip' feature for the tuning key, ensuring the tool is always attached to the instrument and accessible during performances.

Sound Character and Application

Due to its 20-inch diameter, the drum produces a deep, resonant fundamental tone. The 4-inch depth provides a balance between low-end sustain and articulated finger-style playing. The synthetic head combined with the adjustable strings allows for a wide palette of sounds, ranging from clean, open tones to dry, buzzy textures.

The instrument is suited for 'modern artisans' and music enthusiasts who require a reliable, tunable frame drum for world music, folk, or experimental genres. Its robust construction makes it a viable alternative to more delicate traditional instruments.

Market Comparison

Within the percussion market, the LP Tunable Bendir occupies a specific niche for large-format frame drums. While other brands offer similar instruments, such as the Remo 10-inch Lollipop Frame Drum, the LP model is significantly larger and offers more sophisticated tuning capabilities.

In terms of price and professional application, it is positioned alongside high-quality snare drums like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the Tama Starclassic Performer, though it serves a vastly different musical function. For beginners or those seeking melodic percussion, alternatives like the Sela Melody Tongue Drum or Junior 3-piece kits represent different entry points into rhythm, whereas the LP Bendir is a specialist tool for frame drum technique.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the shell material of the LP Tunable Bendir?: The drum features a 6-ply Poplar shell. This choice of wood provides a balance of lightweight handling and resonant tonal qualities.
What are the dimensions of this specific frame drum?: The drum has a diameter of 20 inches and a depth of 4 inches. This size is ideal for producing deep bass tones and a large playing surface.
How does the tuning system work?: It utilizes an internal tuning system supported by a 12-ply tuning ring. This allows the player to adjust the tension of the synthetic head without external hardware protruding from the shell.
Does this drum feature a snare effect?: Yes, it includes two adjustable strings. These strings sit against the head to create the traditional buzzing sound associated with Bendir drums.
What kind of head does the LP Tunable Bendir use?: It is equipped with a synthetic head. Synthetic heads are preferred for their durability and their ability to stay in tune despite changes in temperature or humidity.
What finish is applied to the shell?: The drum features a black-to-natural fade finish. This provides a modern and aesthetically striking look compared to plain wood finishes.
Is a tuning key included with the purchase?: Yes, a tuning key is included. It features an 'Easy-Clip' design to ensure it stays attached to the drum so it is not lost.
How much does the LP Tunable Bendir typically cost?: The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 226. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.
What is the purpose of the 12-ply tuning ring?: The 12-ply ring provides extra structural reinforcement. It ensures the drum can withstand the pressure of the tuning system for long-term durability.
Who is the primary target audience for this instrument?: Latin Percussion describes the target audience as modern artisans and music enthusiasts. It is designed for those seeking a blend of traditional authenticity and modern innovation.
Can the buzz effect be adjusted or turned off?: The two strings are adjustable, allowing the musician to refine the pitch and tone. This precision allows for different levels of snare engagement.
How does the size compare to other frame drums like the Remo Lollipop drum?: At 20 inches, the LP Bendir is much larger than the Remo 10-inch Lollipop Frame Drum. This results in a deeper, more professional-grade sound suited for complex performances.