What is the primary material used in the MSA1134AWA shell?

The shell is constructed from 2-ply American White Ash, which is chosen for its durability and authentic tonal characteristics.

Who is this specific Artist Series model designed for?

This model was designed in honour of the legendary percussionist Ramon 'Mongo' Santamaria and is intended for professional percussionists.

What type of rim is fitted to this conga?

It features a 4mm rounded SSR (Steelyard Skyryde) rim, designed to provide a comfortable surface for the player's hands.

What is the diameter of the drum head?

The drum has a diameter of 11 3/4 inches, which is the standard size for a Conga in a traditional percussion setup.

How many tuning lugs does the MSA1134AWA have?

The shell is equipped with 10mm strong tuning lugs, ensuring reliable and consistent tuning stability.

What accessories are included with the purchase?

It includes a conga saver, a conga handle, sound pads, an accessory pouch, a tuning key, and tune-up oil.

What is the typical price for this model?

The typical retail price for the Meinl MSA1134AWA is approximately GBP 769.

Is this conga suitable for beginners?

While it is described as perfect for any player, its high-quality construction and professional price point make it particularly suited for serious students and professionals.

How does American White Ash affect the sound?

American White Ash provides exceptional durability and excellent projection, producing authentic tones with clear slaps and rich resonance.

What is the purpose of the included Conga Saver?

The Conga Saver is designed to protect the wood shell from scratches and damage when multiple drums are placed close together or during transport.

Does this model come with a stand?

Based on the manufacturer description, a stand is not listed as an included accessory; it includes maintenance tools and protective gear instead.

What other types of percussion does Meinl produce?

Meinl produces a wide range of percussion including egg maracas, shakers, and specialized items like the Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowls.

Gear article

Meinl MSA1134AWA Artist Series Wood Conga

The Meinl MSA1134AWA is a professional-grade 11 3/4" Conga from the Artist Series, specifically designed in honour of the legendary percussionist Ramon 'Mongo' Santamaria. It features a shell constructed from 2-ply American White Ash and is equipped with a 4mm rounded SSR rim to ensure professional durability and playability.

Meinl MSA1134AWA 11 3/4" Artist Series Wood Conga American White Ash

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Background and Design

The Meinl MSA1134AWA represents a tribute to the legacy of Ramon 'Mongo' Santamaria, one of the most influential percussionists in the history of Latin jazz and Afro-Cuban music. As part of the Meinl Artist Series, this instrument is built to meet the rigorous demands of professional touring and studio recording. The construction focuses on traditional aesthetics paired with modern hardware advancements to provide a reliable tool for percussionists.

Construction and Materials

The shell of this 11 3/4" Conga is built from two plies of American White Ash. This specific choice of timber is favoured in high-end percussion manufacturing for its density and durability. The 2-ply construction offers a balance between structural integrity and resonant qualities, allowing the drum to project clearly in live settings. The exterior is finished to highlight the natural grain of the wood, maintaining a classic professional appearance.

Hardware and Playability

A defining feature of the MSA1134AWA is the 4mm rounded SSR (Steelyard Skyryde) rim. This rim design is specifically engineered to be more comfortable for the player's hands during extended sessions, reducing the physical strain associated with traditional sharp-edged rims. The tuning system utilizes 10mm strong tuning lugs, which are designed to handle high tension and provide consistent pitch stability across various environmental conditions.

Sound Character and Performance

Due to its American White Ash construction, the Meinl MSA1134AWA delivers an authentic tone characterized by sharp slaps and deep, resonant open tones. The wood choice ensures excellent projection, making it suitable for unmic'd acoustic sessions as well as amplified stage performances. The 11 3/4" diameter serves as the 'Conga' size in a traditional set, providing a versatile mid-range voice that sits well between a smaller Quinto and a larger Tumba.

Included Accessories

The instrument is supplied with a comprehensive accessory package to aid in maintenance and transport. This includes:

Meinl Conga Saver for shell protection.
Dedicated Conga handle for easier transport.
Sound pads for dampening or surface protection.
An accessory pouch for storage.
A tuning key and tune-up oil for hardware maintenance.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used in the MSA1134AWA shell?: The shell is constructed from 2-ply American White Ash, which is chosen for its durability and authentic tonal characteristics.
Who is this specific Artist Series model designed for?: This model was designed in honour of the legendary percussionist Ramon 'Mongo' Santamaria and is intended for professional percussionists.
What type of rim is fitted to this conga?: It features a 4mm rounded SSR (Steelyard Skyryde) rim, designed to provide a comfortable surface for the player's hands.
What is the diameter of the drum head?: The drum has a diameter of 11 3/4 inches, which is the standard size for a Conga in a traditional percussion setup.
How many tuning lugs does the MSA1134AWA have?: The shell is equipped with 10mm strong tuning lugs, ensuring reliable and consistent tuning stability.
What accessories are included with the purchase?: It includes a conga saver, a conga handle, sound pads, an accessory pouch, a tuning key, and tune-up oil.
What is the typical price for this model?: The typical retail price for the Meinl MSA1134AWA is approximately GBP 769.
Is this conga suitable for beginners?: While it is described as perfect for any player, its high-quality construction and professional price point make it particularly suited for serious students and professionals.
How does American White Ash affect the sound?: American White Ash provides exceptional durability and excellent projection, producing authentic tones with clear slaps and rich resonance.
What is the purpose of the included Conga Saver?: The Conga Saver is designed to protect the wood shell from scratches and damage when multiple drums are placed close together or during transport.
Does this model come with a stand?: Based on the manufacturer description, a stand is not listed as an included accessory; it includes maintenance tools and protective gear instead.
What other types of percussion does Meinl produce?: Meinl produces a wide range of percussion including egg maracas, shakers, and specialized items like the Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowls.