Gear article
Meinl Snarecraft 100 Series Cajon (Green Burst)
The Meinl Snarecraft 100 Series Cajon is a special edition hand percussion instrument constructed from Baltic birch wood. Designed to offer a balance of punchy low-end tones and crisp snare responses, it serves as a versatile rhythmic foundation for percussionists across various skill levels.
See live pricesOverview
The Meinl Snarecraft 100 Series Cajon is a professional-grade percussion instrument that prioritises tonal clarity and playing comfort. As a special edition entry in the Snarecraft line, this model features a distinctive Green Burst aesthetic while maintaining the structural integrity of Baltic birch construction. It is designed to bridge the gap between entry-level affordability and professional sonic requirements, offering a wide dynamic range suitable for various musical genres.
Construction and Design
The primary body and frontplate are crafted from Baltic birch, a tonewood favoured for its natural resonance and durability. A key design feature is the inclusion of smooth, rounded corners, which are intended to reduce hand fatigue and provide total comfort during extended performances or practice sessions. The instrument relies on a fixed internal snare system rather than adjustable strings, ensuring a consistent and immediate response to hand strikes.
Internal Snare System
The Snarecraft 100 Series utilises a dual set of internal snare wires. These wires are fixed directly against the back of the frontplate. This configuration is engineered to provide an articulate, rhythmic punctuation that responds swiftly to expressive hand work, allowing the player to differentiate clearly between the bass notes at the centre and the snare slaps at the edges.
Sonic Character
The sonic profile of the Snarecraft 100 is defined by a combination of warm tonal quality and focused projection. The Baltic birch provides a punchy low-end 'thud' that serves as a kick drum substitute, while the snare wires contribute a crisp, high-frequency 'slap' tone. This contrast creates a broad dynamic range, making the instrument sensitive enough for quiet acoustic sessions yet powerful enough for louder ensemble settings.
Target Audience and Comparisons
Due to its accessible price point of approximately £114, this cajon is well-suited for percussionists of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experienced gigging musicians. While other percussion items like the Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel or Remo Single Row Tambourines offer higher-frequency textures, the Snarecraft Cajon provides the foundational rhythmic core. Compared to smaller handheld items like Stagg Egg Maracas or Meinl Spin Spark Shakers, this cajon serves as a primary instrument for maintaining a full-band groove.
Related gear
£3.99 ($5)Stagg
Stagg Plastic Egg Maracas Red
£9.99 ($13)Stagg
Stagg Rock 5-1/2" Cowbell Black
£119.00 ($151)Sonor
Sonor Orff NG31 Alto Chromatic Glockenspiel
£23.70 ($30)Remo
Remo 6 Single Row Headless Tambourine Black
£299.00 ($380)Meinl
Meinl Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowl 12" Earth Year / Om
£16.00 ($20)Fender
Fender Blues Deluxe Harmonica A
£23.80 ($30)Meinl
Meinl Spin Spark Shaker Black Nickel
£7.30 ($9)Meinl
Meinl Small Plastic Egg Maracas Black
Frequently asked questions
- What material is the Snarecraft 100 Series Cajon made from?
- The instrument is constructed primarily from Baltic birch wood. This material is chosen for its ability to produce both warm tones and punchy low-end responses.
- How many snare wires does this cajon have?
- It features a dual set of internal snare wires. These wires are fixed against the frontplate to ensure a crisp and consistent sound.
- What is the specific finish of this model?
- This specific special edition model features a Green Burst finish. This provides a unique aesthetic compared to standard natural wood finishes.
- Is the snare sound adjustable?
- No, the snare wires in the Snarecraft 100 series are fixed against the frontplate. This design provides a reliable, swift response without the need for manual adjustment.
- Does the design offer any ergonomic features?
- Yes, the cajon is designed with smooth rounded corners. These are intended to provide total comfort for the player’s hands and legs during use.
- What kind of bass sound can I expect?
- The Baltic birch construction allows for a punchy low-end thud. This provides a focused bass sound that mimics the feel of a traditional kick drum.
- Is this cajon suitable for beginners?
- Yes, its affordable price point and comfortable design make it excellent for percussionists of all ages. It is marketed as a brilliant package for all skill levels.
- What is the typical price for this model?
- The Meinl Snarecraft 100 Series Cajon typically retails for approximately £114. This places it in the affordable yet professional-quality price bracket.
- Can this instrument handle different dynamic ranges?
- Yes, it is designed to offer a wide dynamic range. It can produce focused sounds whether played softly for nuance or harder for volume.
- How does it compare to other Meinl percussion like the Spin Spark Shaker?
- While the Spin Spark Shaker is a small handheld effects instrument, the Snarecraft Cajon is a primary rhythmic instrument. The cajon provides the low-end and snare foundation that smaller shakers complement.
- Is this a special edition model?
- Yes, Meinl describes the Snarecraft 100 Series in Green Burst as an excellent special edition cajon. It offers unique aesthetics alongside its standard performance features.
- Does it produce a 'slap' tone?
- Yes, the combination of the birch frontplate and the dual internal snares produces crisp slap tones. These are most prominent when playing near the top edges of the instrument.
