What material is the shell made of?

The shell is made from Acousticon, which consists of 100 percent recycled wood fibres. This material is designed to offer excellent projection and consistent pitch.

Is this djembe suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, it features a weather-resistant black Suede drum head. This synthetic material remains stable under various environmental conditions, unlike natural hide.

What is the 'Flareout' design?

The Flareout design refers to the specific shape of the drum body. This geometry is engineered to enhance the instrument's projection and tonal range.

What finish is used on this model?

The drum features a Green 'Designers Touch' fabric finish. This provides a distinctive, professional appearance suitable for stage performances.

What is the size of the drum head?

The Remo Fliptop Flareout Djembe featured in this range has a 13-inch diameter. This is a standard size for professional djembe performance.

How much does this djembe typically cost?

The typical price for the Remo Fliptop 13 Flareout Djembe is approximately £648. This reflects its status as a professional-grade percussion instrument.

Is the Acousticon shell environmentally friendly?

Yes, Remo describes Acousticon as environmentally friendly because it is made from 100 percent recycled wood. It utilizes materials that might otherwise be discarded.

How does the Suede head affect the sound?

The black Suede drum head is designed to offer a balance of warmth and articulation. It provides a reliable surface that produces consistent slaps and bass tones.

Does this drum require frequent tuning?

Because of the synthetic head and Acousticon shell, it is less susceptible to pitch changes caused by weather than traditional drums. However, regular checks are recommended to maintain preferred tension.

Can I use this djembe in a drum circle?

Absolutely, its high projection and durable construction make it an excellent choice for drum circles. It is capable of being heard alongside many other instruments.

What accessories are often used with this drum?

Percussionists often pair this with shakers like the Meinl Spin Spark Shaker or rhythmic accents like the Stagg Rock Cowbell. It functions as the central rhythmic piece in such a setup.

How does it compare to a glockenspiel or maracas?

Unlike the Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel which is a melodic instrument, this djembe is purely percussive. It is a primary instrument, whereas maracas are typically used as hand-held rhythmic accompaniment.

Gear article

Remo Fliptop 13 Flareout Djembe

The Remo Fliptop 13 Flareout Djembe is a professional-grade hand percussion instrument featuring a 100 percent recycled wood Acousticon shell and a weather-resistant black Suede drum head. Designed for portability and durability, this djembe utilizes a unique 'Flareout' shape to enhance its sonic projection and tonal range.

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Background and Construction

The Remo Fliptop 13 Flareout Djembe represents the brand's commitment to sustainable manufacturing and modern material science. Central to its construction is the Acousticon shell, which is fabricated from 100 percent recycled wood fibres. This material is chosen not only for its environmental credentials but for its specific acoustic properties, providing a consistent resonance that traditional solid wood shells may lack due to natural variances.

Key Features and Design

This model is distinguished by its 'Flareout' geometry, which facilitates increased projection and a broader frequency response. The instrument is equipped with a Remo black Suede drum head, designed to be weather-resistant. This makes the drum suitable for outdoor performances or travel, as the synthetic head does not expand or contract significantly with changes in humidity or temperature. Visually, the drum is finished in a 'Designers Touch' fabric in green, providing a high-visibility aesthetic for stage use.

Sound Character

Thanks to the Acousticon shell and the Flareout design, the djembe produces a high-pitched 'slap' and a deep, resonant bass note. The manufacturer notes that the Acousticon material is unparalleled in its pitch timbre and projection, ensuring the drum can be heard clearly in ensemble settings. The Suede head provides a textured surface that contributes to a warm yet articulate tone.

Target User and Applications

The Fliptop 13 Flareout is aimed at professional percussionists and educators who require a reliable, high-output instrument that is easy to maintain. Its durability makes it an ideal choice for touring musicians who encounter varying climates. While it sits at a premium price point of approximately £648, its recycled construction also appeals to environmentally conscious players.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to traditional rope-tuned djembes made from African hardwoods, the Remo Flareout offers superior tuning stability and weather resistance. While traditional drums may offer a more 'organic' feel, the Remo model provides a more consistent sound profile. In the broader percussion market, it serves a different role than smaller accessory items like the Stagg Plastic Egg Maracas or the Meinl Spin Spark Shaker, acting as a primary rhythmic foundation rather than a textural accent.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is the shell made of?: The shell is made from Acousticon, which consists of 100 percent recycled wood fibres. This material is designed to offer excellent projection and consistent pitch.
Is this djembe suitable for outdoor use?: Yes, it features a weather-resistant black Suede drum head. This synthetic material remains stable under various environmental conditions, unlike natural hide.
What is the 'Flareout' design?: The Flareout design refers to the specific shape of the drum body. This geometry is engineered to enhance the instrument's projection and tonal range.
What finish is used on this model?: The drum features a Green 'Designers Touch' fabric finish. This provides a distinctive, professional appearance suitable for stage performances.
What is the size of the drum head?: The Remo Fliptop Flareout Djembe featured in this range has a 13-inch diameter. This is a standard size for professional djembe performance.
How much does this djembe typically cost?: The typical price for the Remo Fliptop 13 Flareout Djembe is approximately £648. This reflects its status as a professional-grade percussion instrument.
Is the Acousticon shell environmentally friendly?: Yes, Remo describes Acousticon as environmentally friendly because it is made from 100 percent recycled wood. It utilizes materials that might otherwise be discarded.
How does the Suede head affect the sound?: The black Suede drum head is designed to offer a balance of warmth and articulation. It provides a reliable surface that produces consistent slaps and bass tones.
Does this drum require frequent tuning?: Because of the synthetic head and Acousticon shell, it is less susceptible to pitch changes caused by weather than traditional drums. However, regular checks are recommended to maintain preferred tension.
Can I use this djembe in a drum circle?: Absolutely, its high projection and durable construction make it an excellent choice for drum circles. It is capable of being heard alongside many other instruments.
What accessories are often used with this drum?: Percussionists often pair this with shakers like the Meinl Spin Spark Shaker or rhythmic accents like the Stagg Rock Cowbell. It functions as the central rhythmic piece in such a setup.
How does it compare to a glockenspiel or maracas?: Unlike the Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel which is a melodic instrument, this djembe is purely percussive. It is a primary instrument, whereas maracas are typically used as hand-held rhythmic accompaniment.