What is the primary material of the shell?

The shell is constructed from 6-ply Poplar wood. This choice of timber offers a balance between lightweight handling and a resonant acoustic response.

How does the tuning mechanism work?

The drum features an internal tuning system supported by a 12-ply tuning ring. This allows the player to adjust the tension of the synthetic head using a standard tuning key.

What are the dimensions of this specific Tar drum?

The drum has a diameter of 16 inches and a shell depth of 4 inches. These dimensions contribute to its deep and versatile sound profile.

What type of drum head is used on this model?

It uses a synthetic head rather than a natural skin. This material is specifically chosen to maintain pitch consistency regardless of environmental changes.

What is the 'Easy-Clip' feature?

The Easy-Clip is a built-in holder for the tuning key. It ensures that the adjustment tool is always attached to the drum, preventing loss and allowing for quick tuning changes.

What finish is applied to the drum shell?

The drum features an elegant black-to-natural fade finish. This aesthetic choice provides a modern look while still showcasing the wood grain of the poplar.

Is this drum suitable for outdoor performances?

Yes, it is particularly well-suited for outdoor use. The synthetic head does not sag or tighten significantly with humidity changes, unlike traditional goat skin heads.

How does the price compare to other professional frame drums?

The typical price is approximately GBP 192. This places it in the mid-to-high range for professional tunable frame drums, reflecting its robust construction.

Can this drum be played with sticks?

While primarily designed for hand percussion techniques, it can be played with soft mallets or brushes. Using standard wooden drumsticks may damage the synthetic head or the wooden bearing edge.

What makes the construction robust?

The combination of a 6-ply shell and a 12-ply tuning ring provides high structural integrity. This ensures the drum can withstand the high tension required for certain tuning ranges.

How does it differ from a standard snare drum?

Unlike a snare drum (such as a Sonor AQ2), it lacks a bottom head and snare wires. It is designed for the subtle finger-strikes and palm-mutes associated with frame drumming.

Is the tuning key included with the instrument?

Yes, the instrument includes a tuning key designed to fit the Easy-Clip system. This allows the user to begin playing and adjusting the drum immediately out of the box.

Gear article

Latin Percussion LP Frame Drums Tunable TAR 16" x 4"

The Latin Percussion LP Tunable TAR is a 16-inch diameter frame drum designed to combine traditional Middle Eastern percussion elements with modern manufacturing techniques. Featuring a 6-ply Poplar shell and a synthetic head, it offers a stable and versatile performance tool for percussionists requiring consistent pitch and durability.

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Overview and Construction

The LP Frame Drums Tunable TAR is a professional-grade percussion instrument that prioritises build quality and ease of use. The drum is constructed from a 6-ply Poplar shell, providing a lightweight yet resonant foundation. To ensure structural integrity and facilitate precise tuning, Latin Percussion has integrated a 12-ply tuning ring into the design.

Visually, the instrument features a sophisticated black-to-natural fade finish, distinguishing it from more utilitarian traditional drums. A notable functional addition is the inclusion of an 'Easy-Clip' system, which holds the tuning key directly on the instrument, allowing for rapid adjustments during performances or recording sessions.

Sound Character and Tuning

Due to its 16-inch diameter and 4-inch depth, the drum produces a deep, resonant tone characteristic of the Tar family. The use of a synthetic head is a significant design choice; unlike traditional rawhide, synthetic materials are resistant to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. This ensures that the drum maintains its pitch over long periods, making it a reliable choice for touring musicians. The internal tuning mechanism allows the player to tension the head to specific pitches, ranging from deep, earthy thuds to sharp, articulating snaps.

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Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other percussion options, the LP Tunable TAR occupies a specialized niche. For example, while the Remo 10" Lollipop Frame Drum serves as a simpler, more educational tool, the LP TAR is a full-sized performance instrument.

In contrast to standard snare drums like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the Tama Starclassic Performer, which utilise metal wires and thicker shells for high-volume backbeats, the LP Frame Drum is designed for hand-percussion techniques and nuanced rhythmic patterns. Its 4-inch depth provides more low-end resonance than shallower frame drums, though it remains more portable than large kit components like the Natal Originals Walnut snare.

Target Audience

This instrument is primarily suited for world music percussionists, session drummers, and educators. Its reliable tuning makes it ideal for studio environments where pitch drift can be a hindrance. While it is a professional-grade tool, the ease of the tuning system also makes it accessible for students who are transitioning from fixed-head drums to tunable models.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material of the shell?: The shell is constructed from 6-ply Poplar wood. This choice of timber offers a balance between lightweight handling and a resonant acoustic response.
How does the tuning mechanism work?: The drum features an internal tuning system supported by a 12-ply tuning ring. This allows the player to adjust the tension of the synthetic head using a standard tuning key.
What are the dimensions of this specific Tar drum?: The drum has a diameter of 16 inches and a shell depth of 4 inches. These dimensions contribute to its deep and versatile sound profile.
What type of drum head is used on this model?: It uses a synthetic head rather than a natural skin. This material is specifically chosen to maintain pitch consistency regardless of environmental changes.
What is the 'Easy-Clip' feature?: The Easy-Clip is a built-in holder for the tuning key. It ensures that the adjustment tool is always attached to the drum, preventing loss and allowing for quick tuning changes.
What finish is applied to the drum shell?: The drum features an elegant black-to-natural fade finish. This aesthetic choice provides a modern look while still showcasing the wood grain of the poplar.
Is this drum suitable for outdoor performances?: Yes, it is particularly well-suited for outdoor use. The synthetic head does not sag or tighten significantly with humidity changes, unlike traditional goat skin heads.
How does the price compare to other professional frame drums?: The typical price is approximately GBP 192. This places it in the mid-to-high range for professional tunable frame drums, reflecting its robust construction.
Can this drum be played with sticks?: While primarily designed for hand percussion techniques, it can be played with soft mallets or brushes. Using standard wooden drumsticks may damage the synthetic head or the wooden bearing edge.
What makes the construction robust?: The combination of a 6-ply shell and a 12-ply tuning ring provides high structural integrity. This ensures the drum can withstand the high tension required for certain tuning ranges.
How does it differ from a standard snare drum?: Unlike a snare drum (such as a Sonor AQ2), it lacks a bottom head and snare wires. It is designed for the subtle finger-strikes and palm-mutes associated with frame drumming.
Is the tuning key included with the instrument?: Yes, the instrument includes a tuning key designed to fit the Easy-Clip system. This allows the user to begin playing and adjusting the drum immediately out of the box.