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Meinl 16" Goat Skin Bendir - African Brown

The Meinl 16" Goat Skin Bendir is a North African style frame drum constructed from Siam Oak and natural goatskin. It features a traditional buzzing snare effect created by four internal adjustable nylon strings and includes an integrated dampening system to control overtones.

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Overview and Design

The Meinl 16" Goat Skin Bendir is designed to replicate the classical North African percussion tradition. It is built around a deep shell made from Siam Oak, which provides structural stability and resonance. The drum is finished in an aesthetic 'African Brown' and features a hand-selected goatskin head, which is the primary source of its organic tonal quality.

While categorized broadly under percussion, these instruments are distinct for their frame-based construction, allowing the player to hold the drum comfortably for extended performances. The depth of the shell is specifically engineered to enhance the user's grip while maximizing the internal air volume for sound projection.

Buzzing Mechanism and Tuning

A defining feature of the Bendir is its internal snare mechanism. Four adjustable nylon strings span the underside of the goatskin head. When the drum is struck, these strings vibrate against the skin to produce a characteristic buzzing sound.

Users can adjust the tension of the head using the provided hex key. This mechanical tuning capability allows the drum to reach a wide range of pitches, varying from deep, rounded lows to sharp, percussive high-end 'taks'. To ensure the sound remains focused, an internal dampening layer is incorporated to manage high-frequency overtones that can occur with natural skin heads.

Sound Character

The sound of the Meinl Bendir is defined by its versatile frequency response. The goatskin head and Siam Oak shell combination delivers a warm, earthy resonance. The adjustable nature of the instrument means it can perform dual roles: providing a rhythmic foundation with thumping bass notes or providing intricate rhythmic accents with the buzzing snare effect. The internal muffling ensures that the 'taks' (rim shots/high hits) remain crisp and do not ring out excessively.

Target Audience and Application

This instrument is primarily suited for percussionists focused on world music, folk, and traditional North African styles. Its 16" diameter makes it a versatile middle-ground size, offering enough surface area for complex finger techniques while remaining portable. Because of its specific buzzing timbre, it serves as a unique alternative to standard frame drums or modern snare drums in acoustic ensembles.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to other frame-based instruments like the Remo 10" Lollipop Frame Drum, the Meinl Bendir is significantly more focused on traditional materials and adjustable internal hardware. While modern snare drums like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the Tama Starclassic Performer rely on metal wires and mechanical throw-offs, the Bendir utilises nylon strings to achieve its 'buzz'.

Similarly, while melodic percussion like the Sela Melody Tongue Drum focuses on fixed scales, the Meinl Bendir is a purely rhythmic tool that allows for pitch modulation through manual pressure on the skin during play.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used for the shell of this drum?
The shell is constructed from Siam Oak. This material is chosen for its durability and its ability to support the resonance of the natural goatskin head.
How does the Bendir produce its buzzing sound?
The buzzing effect is created by four adjustable nylon strings that are stretched across the inside of the drum head. When the skin is struck, the vibration against these strings produces the traditional snare-like sound.
Is the tuning of the drum head adjustable?
Yes, the drum features a mechanical tuning system. A hex key is included with the instrument to allow the player to tighten or loosen the head to their preference.
What type of skin is used for the drum head?
The drum uses a hand-selected goatskin head. Natural skin is used to provide the authentic tonal warmth and responsiveness required for North African percussion styles.
How do you control unwanted overtones on this model?
The drum includes an integrated internal dampening layer. This layer is designed to suppress excessive ring and keep the percussive strikes sounding crisp and controlled.
What is the diameter of this specific Meinl Bendir?
This specific model has a diameter of 16 inches. This size provides a balance between deep bass frequencies and sharp high-frequency responses.
What finish is applied to the wood shell?
The drum features an 'African Brown' finish. This applies to the Siam Oak shell, giving it a traditional and professional aesthetic appearance.
Does the drum come with any accessories for maintenance?
It includes a hex key specifically for the tuning lugs. This tool is essential for adjusting the tension of the goatskin head and the internal strings.
Can this drum produce deep bass notes?
Yes, because of the 16" diameter and the resonance of the Siam Oak shell, it can produce rounded low ends. Tuning the head to a lower tension will further emphasize these frequencies.
What are 'taks' in the context of this instrument?
In frame drumming, 'taks' refer to the high-pitched, crisp strikes usually played near the rim. This Meinl Bendir is designed to produce these clearly without muddy overtones.
Is this drum suitable for long playing sessions?
The deep Siam Oak shell is designed not just for sound, but for a comfortable hold. This ergonomic consideration helps percussionists during extended performances.
How does the Meinl Bendir differ from a standard frame drum?
The primary difference is the addition of the internal buzzing strings. While a standard frame drum provides a clean tone, the Bendir incorporates a snare-like rattle characteristic of North African music.