best cajon drums in india featured image swag swami article

Best Cajon Drums In India-Reviews And Buying Guide

What is life without music? And what is music without a rhythm? Importantly, music is a great saviour. And man has never understood its importance better than now. 

Recently people have taken up vocal and instrumental music like never before. Speaking of which, there is something very therapeutic about drumming. Just playing on your drum set removes all the anger and frustration. 

But did you know that there is more to drumming than a regular drum set? And this is where Cajon drums enter the room. To know more about the best Cajon drums in India, go through our review below.

What Are Cajon Drums?

Those who are unfamiliar with Cajon drums will be in for a surprise. For, a Cajon drum is nothing but a wooden box on which beats are played by hand. Interestingly, the term is derived from the Spanish word ‘caja’, meaning box or case. 

First, just picture a wooden box or case with 4-6 smooth surfaces. Next, picture a sound hole in one surface and snare or guitar strings inside the box. And this is exactly what a Cajon drum looks like. Normally, Cajon drums are around 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Importantly, hardwoods like birch, pine & walnut are used to make Cajon drums. Likewise, redwood, ash, cedarwood and applewood are also used. The tapa is a thin, plywood surface on which one plays the beats. Interestingly, the musician straddles these drums and plays them by hand or accessories.

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Best Cajon Drums-A Quick Comparison

Product
Pearl Jingle Cajon
Gappu Tilt Cajon
Clapbox Adjustable Snare Cajon
Best Value
Kadence Pulse Cajon
Blueberry Cajon Box Drum
Zabel Mahogany Top Cajon
Image
Pearl PCJ629 Jingle Cajon
Tilt Cajon | Professional Snare Cajon | Gappu Cajon
Clapbox Adjustable Snare Cajon CB65- Birch Wood, (H:50 W:30 L:30) - 3 Internal Snares
Kadence Heart Beat Cajon Box + (Free Online Learning Course)- Black Birch Wood Body - Percussion Box, Full Size, With Adjustable Snare CL12BK
Blueberry C-12 Cajon Box Drum, Wooden Percussion Box with Internal Metal Strings for Adjustable Snare Effect, Birch wood Handcrafted,Tapping Birch wood, Full Size (Sunburst)
Zabel Cajon Mahagony Top- with Bag
Material
Carubinga Wood Laquer
Mahogany and Rose Wood
Birch Wood
Birch Wood
Birch Wood
Mahogany Wood
Dimensions
35 x 35 x 50 cm
50 x 40 x 25 cm
30 x 30 x 52 cm
31 x 30 x 48 cm
19 x 15.01 x 11.99 cm
37.01 x 24 x 23.01 cm
Weight
2 kg
5 kg
4 kg
2 kg
3 kg
1.5 kg
Colour
Multicolour/ Brown
Black
Brown/ Multicolour
Black/ Natural Wood
Brown/ Sunburst/Multicolour
Brown
Budget
Under Rs.15000
Under Rs.10000
Under Rs.7000
Under Rs.7000
Under Rs.7000
Under Rs.5000
Product
Pearl Jingle Cajon
Image
Pearl PCJ629 Jingle Cajon
Material
Carubinga Wood Laquer
Dimensions
35 x 35 x 50 cm
Weight
2 kg
Colour
Multicolour/ Brown
Budget
Under Rs.15000
More Info
Product
Gappu Tilt Cajon
Image
Tilt Cajon | Professional Snare Cajon | Gappu Cajon
Material
Mahogany and Rose Wood
Dimensions
50 x 40 x 25 cm
Weight
5 kg
Colour
Black
Budget
Under Rs.10000
More Info
Product
Clapbox Adjustable Snare Cajon
Image
Clapbox Adjustable Snare Cajon CB65- Birch Wood, (H:50 W:30 L:30) - 3 Internal Snares
Material
Birch Wood
Dimensions
30 x 30 x 52 cm
Weight
4 kg
Colour
Brown/ Multicolour
Budget
Under Rs.7000
More Info
Best Value
Product
Kadence Pulse Cajon
Image
Kadence Heart Beat Cajon Box + (Free Online Learning Course)- Black Birch Wood Body - Percussion Box, Full Size, With Adjustable Snare CL12BK
Material
Birch Wood
Dimensions
31 x 30 x 48 cm
Weight
2 kg
Colour
Black/ Natural Wood
Budget
Under Rs.7000
More Info
Product
Blueberry Cajon Box Drum
Image
Blueberry C-12 Cajon Box Drum, Wooden Percussion Box with Internal Metal Strings for Adjustable Snare Effect, Birch wood Handcrafted,Tapping Birch wood, Full Size (Sunburst)
Material
Birch Wood
Dimensions
19 x 15.01 x 11.99 cm
Weight
3 kg
Colour
Brown/ Sunburst/Multicolour
Budget
Under Rs.7000
More Info
Product
Zabel Mahogany Top Cajon
Image
Zabel Cajon Mahagony Top- with Bag
Material
Mahogany Wood
Dimensions
37.01 x 24 x 23.01 cm
Weight
1.5 kg
Colour
Brown
Budget
Under Rs.5000
More Info

Types of Cajon Drums

best cajon drums in india types swag swami article

Did you know- people also call Cajon drums’ drum boxes’? Interestingly, this instrument has an Afro-Peruvian origin. When the people from West Africa were transported to the Americas as slaves, they found solace in music. However, these ingenious people found a way to music, although it was banned to them.

These people used packing boxes/ crates/ cases made of hardwood to create music. Initially, they created rhythms by tapping on the wooden surface with palms or fingers. Later, these Cajon drums found their place in Flamenco and rumba. Subsequently, many more styles and gigs incorporate these drums in them.

Let’s take a look at the popular types of Cajon drums.

Peruvian

This Cajon drum is close to the original construction. So, the Peruvian Cajon drum has no snares inside. And it looks like a hollow wooden box with a soundhole. Importantly, musicians play the Peruvian Cajon drums are played in tandem. To clarify, drummers do this to compensate for the lack of snares.

Flamenco

These drum boxes have guitar strings as snares inside the hollow space. For example, these guitar strings are fixed diagonally or straight. Also, the guitar strings could have bells attached to them. This combination allows a technically sound performance. Also, the guitar strings’ buzz’, which enriches the sound.

Snare

The Snare Cajon includes regular drum snares inside the hollow space. Due to many snare wires, a wider range of sound is possible. The snares are removable. But the presence of snares makes it emulate the sound of a standard drum set.

Cuban

This is a drum box having four sides, and a square top surface at the bottom of the Cajon is the soundhole. Due to this structure, it provides greater resonance while playing. Depending upon the size of this drum, it can be Tumba, Conga and Quinto.

Slap-Top Cajon

This Cajon drum looks like the letter ‘T’. The drummers balance this Cajon between their thighs with the flat playing surface that is horizontal and more accessible. There are two sound holes, one on each arm of the ‘T”. These project the sound outward.

Bongo Cajon

These drum boxes are thus named because they have two sub-parts like Bongos. Two smaller Cuban Cajon drums of rectangular/ trapezoid shape with square/ octagonal ‘tapa’ are connected. Additionally, the two drums offer variety in pitch and tone.

Tube Cajon

Well, this is more of an accessory than an actual Cajon. You can attach it to the soundhole of the Cajon to amplify the bass tones. It also provides great separation of snare and bass tones.

Bata Cajon

The Bata Cajon is a double surfaced Cajon. It is placed on the musician’s lap. Earlier, the playing surfaces were made of animal hide. But now they are made of wood. The dual surfaces provide various pitches and tones.

Acrylic Cajon

They are popular with musicians who travel a lot. The acrylic material is durable. However, it is not as rich in sound as the traditional wooden varieties. To counter that, only the ‘tapa’ is wooden. Slightly more expensive than usual varieties.

Dual Cajon

If you cannot decide between a snared and a snareless Cajon, you can purchase this type. To play on both front and rear surfaces, the soundhole is placed on the side. One of these plates has snare wires/mesh.

Electro-Acoustic Cajon

Usually, the musicians use a Flamenco Cajon to make this type of Cajon. It has an in-built amplification and battery. You can even plug it into an electrical outlet. Then you can switch between electric and acoustic sounds easily.

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Top Cajon Drum Brands In India

Now that you know the types of Cajon drums available let us look at the best brands in India.

Clapbox

This brand offers a large variety of snare Cajon drums. Clapbox Cajons are made from birch, oak, walnut and maple wood. Additionally, most of these drums have adjustable snares. 

Also, you can buy accessories like Cajon saddles, padded bags and drum-practice pads. These budget-friendly Cajon drums (in various colours ) are available for under Rs.7000.

Blueberry

The Blueberry Cajon drums are birch wood drum boxes with adjustable snares. This brand offers percussion drums in various solid woody patterns. Interestingly, one can assemble and disassemble these Cajon drums easily during travel. Blueberry Cajon drums are available for under Rs.8000.

Zabel

Zabel currently offers limited varieties of Cajon drums. They are either Bulinga or Mahogany top. The great part is you can buy them at a very pocket-friendly price for under Rs.4000. 

KAXON

The first thing that strikes you when you look at these Cajon drums is eye-popping colours. And another thing that makes these drum boxes attractive is the crafting style. 

You can even find specially handcrafted ones from this brand. Kaxon makes Cajons of birch, oak, lilac and Siam oak wood with adjustable snares for under Rs.5000.

Kadence

The sheer variety of Kadence Cajon drums is mind-boggling. Kadence makes Cajon drums from rosewood, apple, birch and Russian birch. In addition to them, Kadence uses flamed maple, black birch and Wujin wood. Several varieties have wood combinations. These are available for under Rs.13000.

Pearl

Very solid looking Cajon drums made of ashwood and mahogany. As also cherry wood and even fibreglass! These are available for under Rs.20000. Accessories like bags, jingle cups and attachment locks are available.

Meinl

This brand offers both snare and bongo Cajon drums. Meinl uses birch, ash and rubberwood to make these Cajons that cost under Rs.12000. Their slap-top variety is also popular around the world.

Sela

Beautifully designed Cajon drums! These are available under 15000. Made of birch wood, they have rounded corners for comfortable playing. 

Arctic

One can use Arctic Cajon drums as Flamenco or dual Cajon drums. These have internal guitar strings or snakes that are adjustable. Arctic Cajon drums are available for under Rs.6000.

Gappu

Don’t go by the very desi-sounding name. Gappu offers unique varieties of Cajon drums in various sizes and styles. These are -small travel version, beginners Cuban style to professional, tilted, snare type. 

One stick-like variety called the Rainmaker is also available. You can buy a Gappu Cajon for under Rs.8000.

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Top Cajon Drums In India

Did you take a look at the top Cajon drum brands in India? You must also have researched on the web about them. And we know how tough it is to make a choice. Hence, to make it easier for you, we have reviewed the top Cajon drums.

While reviewing the top contenders, we took into account many factors. They are price, style, the wood used and comfort while playing. In addition, we also looked at special features, accessories and the weight of the drum box. 

Check out the best Cajon drums in India.

Pearl Jingle Cajon  

Pearl PCJ629 Jingle Cajon
  Material: Carubinga Wood Laquer
  Dimensions: 35 x 35 x 50 cm
  Weight: 2 kg
  Colour: Multicolour/ Brown
  Budget – Under Rs.15000

This Pearl Cajon drum is an internal snare Cajon and is one of its kind, with two jingle fixtures on the rear plate. The snares plus the Brazilian platinella and stainless steel tambourine jingles enable four sound options. Indeed, it is one of the best professional Cajon drums we have seen.


Sela Varios Cajon  

Sela SE 051 Varios Cajon, Brown
  Material: Birch Wood
  Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 46.99 cm
  Weight: 5.05 kg
  Colour: Brown
  Budget – Under Rs.15000

If you are into colours and graphic design (plus music), you will enjoy Sela Cajons. 11 layers of birch wood tapa, removable snares and clap corners make a wide range of tone & pitch possible. The rounded corners and bright design make it an excellent Cajon option. To conclude, this could be one of the best Cajon drums for recording music.


Pearl Cajon Fun Box 

Pearl PFB-300 Cajon Fun Box, Yellow
  Material: Fibreglass
  Dimensions: 35 x 35 x 50 cm
  Weight: 2 kg
  Colour: Yellow
  Budget – Under Rs.15000

The bright yellow colour makes it an attractive option to look at. Although the brand Pearl makes professional, wooden Cajon drums, this Cajon is for kids. The bright colour, tribal design inlay and fibreglass shell make it a great choice. The making style is Cuban. This could be one of the best Cajon drums for beginners & children. 


Meinl Snarecraft Cajon  

Meinl, Cajon, Snarecraft -Heart Ash SC100HA
  Material: Baltic Birch Wood
  Dimensions: 29.85 x 29.85 x 50.17 cm
  Weight: 4 kg
  Colour: Heart Ash
  Budget – Under Rs.15000

Brand Meinl is a popular one worldwide, and these Meinl Cajon drums live up to its reputation. This drum box has two fixed internal snares and a rear sound port. You will find its rounded corner comfortable to play on, and its heart ash finish makes the Cajon drum look very classy. We recommend it as the best quality Cajon in the market.


Gappu Tilt Cajon 

Tilt Cajon | Professional Snare Cajon | Gappu Cajon
  Material: Mahogany and Rose Wood
  Dimensions: 50 x 40 x 25 cm
  Weight: 5 kg
  Colour: Black
  Budget – Under Rs.10000

Certainly, this is one of the most uniquely structured Cajon drums of all. While the tapa is tilted, other surfaces are straight. And this Cajon drum is crafted by hand! The mahogany wood body enhances the bass sounds, while the rosewood tapa enhances the snare sizzle. This is one of the best Cajon drums under Rs.10000.


Clapbox Adjustable Snare Cajon  

Clapbox Adjustable Snare Cajon CB65- Birch Wood, (H:50 W:30 L:30) - 3 Internal Snares
  Material: Birch Wood
  Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 52 cm
  Weight: 4 kg
  Colour: Brown/ Multicolour
  Budget – Under Rs.7000

This is a solid three snared Cajon drum by Clapbox. Firstly, the presence of a side adjustment knob helps to create a great range of sound. Snareless Cajon drum sound to a wide bass range-all possible with this Cajon drum! Lastly, its wide legs/stands make it very stable while playing. 

It is touted to be suitable for both live and studio audiences. You can also buy accessories specific to this drum easily. Therefore, we recommend Clapbox as one of the best Cajon brands in India. 


Kadence Pulse Cajon  

Kadence Heart Beat Cajon Box + (Free Online Learning Course)- Black Birch Wood Body - Percussion Box, Full Size, With Adjustable Snare CL12BK
  Material: Birch Wood
  Dimensions: 31 x 30 x 48 cm
  Weight: 2 kg
  Colour: Black/ Natural Wood
  Budget – Under Rs.7000

Firstly, what strikes us about this Kadence Cajon is its stylish make. The wood-veneer finish is great! Secondly, it is a solid drum box with rubber seating for comfort. It has four guitar strings for superior acoustic performance. Additionally, these guitar wires are adjustable. So, this is one Cajon suitable for professionals and amateurs. We think it could rank as the best Cajon plywood in India.


ARCTIC Cajon 

ARCTIC Cajon H 50cm, B 30cm, L 30cm with Built-in Guitar wires or Internal Snares, For adults to young musicians with perfect comfortable size
  Material: Birch Wood
  Dimensions: 35 x 35 x 55 cm
  Weight: 7.7 kg
  Colour: Black
  Budget – Under Rs.7000

What a sleek looking Cajon! The dual sets of guitar wires (as snares) are fixed internally. These, along with the mesh strap and rear amplification port, work wonders. The ARCTIC Cajon drum box with a rubber seat and non-slip feet make it comfy, and the design encourages resonance for all varieties of tones. We say it is the best Cajon drum for acoustic guitar & rock.


 

Blueberry Cajon Box Drum 

Blueberry C-12 Cajon Box Drum, Wooden Percussion Box with Internal Metal Strings for Adjustable Snare Effect, Birch wood Handcrafted,Tapping Birch wood, Full Size (Sunburst)
  Material: Birch Wood
  Dimensions: 19 x 15.01 x 11.99 cm
  Weight: 3 kg
  Colour: Brown/ Sunburst/Multicolour
  Budget – Under Rs.7000

This jam box is a Flamenco style Cajon drum. The adjustable guitar strings inside can be tuned with a hex key (included). This Blueberry Cajon drum is easy to carry. Its capped feet prevent vibration interference. Thus, a clear and smooth flow of music can be heard. Hence, we think it is one of the best acoustic Cajon drums.


Zabel Mahogany Top Cajon 

Zabel Cajon Mahagony Top- with Bag
  Material: Mahogany Wood
  Dimensions: 37.01 x 24 x 23.01 cm
  Weight: 1.5 kg
  Colour: Brown
  Budget – Under Rs.5000

The Zabel Cajon drum looks very unassuming. Also, it looks very similar to the original construction style. This snare Cajon has a rear soundhole for a good range of sounds. Since it is light in weight, it is feasibly portable. Best of all features-the set has a bag included. We think this is one of the best Cajon for beginners.


KAXON Box Adjustable Snare Cajon  

KAXON BOX Adjustable Snare Cajon Hand Crafted Birch Wood (H:50 W:30 L:30 cm) -3 Internal Snares, Deep Bass tone
  Material: Birch/Oak Wood
  Dimensions: 30 x 30 x 50 cm
  Weight: 4 kg
  Colour: Turquoise/ Multicolour
  Budget – Under Rs.5000

We are sure you will rave about this beautifully styled KAXON Cajon box. The great colours, the matte finish and the padded top are just a few plus points. Additionally, its side knob will help you adjust the snares for a better sizzle sound. The texture will help you play the corner slaps, finger rolls and bass well. So we commend it for being one of the best Cajon drums under Rs.4000.


Gappu Travel Cajon  

Travel Cajon | Graphics Cajon | Gappu Cajon | 3external Snare
  Material: NA
  Dimensions: 25 x 15 x 10 cm
  Weight: 2 kg
  Colour: Black
  Budget – Under Rs.5000

First, we laud the brand Gappu for the sheer variety of Cajon sizes and styles. This Cajon drum is for everyone who enjoys music while travelling. Secondary, this travel Cajon drum is so compact that it is perfect for jamming sessions on the go. It has external, adjustable snares. 

Additionally, you can purchase a rain-maker/ rain stick with it for a wider music range. Hence we vote it the best compact Cajon drum.


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How Are Cajon Drums Made?

By now, you must have figured out what Cajon drums look like. But there is so much more to it than you think. For example, a Cajon drum can have a squarish, rectangular or trapezoid shape. Or it could be hexagonal or octagonal. However, the principal idea behind their making is the same.

The playing surface or ‘tapa’ is made of thin 1/8 inch plywood. However, the other sides of the Cajon box are made of 1/2 inch thick wood. This could vary with style and wood type. 

How The Actual Process Happens

Generally, the dimensions are 18 by 12 inches or 19 by 13 inches. The wood is birch, pine, walnut, oak or mahogany. Additionally, you can use rosewood, apple, maple, ash or rubberwood.

Initially, the Cajon creator cuts the wood after measuring with precision. They use a metal clamping ruler and a jigsaw or a circular saw. Then, except in a slap-top or Cuban Cajon, a 12cm diameter hole is cut into the rear piece. This is the soundhole. 

The Cajon maker uses wood glue and carpentry clamps/bolts/wood screws to assemble the wooden pieces. Then they fix snares or guitar strings below the tapa surface. Lastly, the tapa is fixed. 

Subsequently, the maker fixes the legs/stands to the bottom for stability. Provisions for attaching amps, microphones, snare adjustment knobs are also made.

The Final Steps

For a smooth finish, the maker sands all the surfaces. Some brands make the corners rounded for the musician’s comfort. Some make provisions for attaching a Cajon saddle on top. Lastly, the maker decorates/paints the Cajon drum for a glossy finish.

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How Do You Play A Cajon Drum?

A Cajon drum, irrespective of the number of surfaces, looks like a box/ case. One strikes the front or top surfaces called tapas by palm or finger rolls to make music. But, the place on the tapa where the Cajon drum is beaten matters. Corner claps, high finger rolls, claps on the lower end – all produce different tones.  

For instance, if your Cajon drum has snares, it has a sizzle to the beat. If you fix the guitar string internally, the sound has a buzz. As a result, high notes and bass sounds are both possible. However, Cajon drums are essentially simple instruments.

While Performing

One just sits on a Cajon drum while playing it. You must have seen many music gig videos where you see people playing Cajon drums. A person sitting on a box and striking it to give a beat to the song! Isn’t this what you have seen? 

One can simply sit on the drum box and lean over to strike on the tapa. Or one can sit behind the Cajon on a chair. Then one can lean over to play on the tapa. If you have a slap-top Cajon, you just have to place it between your thighs. Or, like others, you can sit on the Cajon drum and tilt it backwards to play it.

Additional Tips

Don’t forget; you can use accessories like Cajon drum sticks, brushes and rain-makers too. These will make more sounds possible. In addition, you can place microphones or amplifiers near the soundhole for a larger setting. Moreover, you can use electric-plug ins for electro-acoustic Cajon drums. 

Accessories For A Cajon Drum

Perhaps there is no other musical instrument quite like the Cajon. Just tell us another instrument that requires you to sit atop it while playing. We will wait! 

A Cajon drum requires you to lean over and strike the playing surface. Hence, you need to consider personal comfort while playing a Cajon drum.

So, we have compiled a list of accessories you can purchase with a Cajon drum. These will enhance the music or make playing it comfortable. Or some of them will make transporting the Cajon easier. Take a look.

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Accessories To Enhance The Musician’s Comfort

Cajon Seat/Pad

Not all Cajons come with a cushioning seat. And sitting astride a Cajon drum is uncomfortable after a while. Therefore, buy a Cajon saddle or a Cajon seat/pad made of rubber or foam.

Drumming Tape

Drumming on a Cajon is exhilarating. But it wears out the skin of your palms and hurts the joints. Thus, it is always advisable to wrap drumming tape around your palm. It works much better than gloves.

Cajon Travel Bag/Case

Many Cajon brands sell product-specific travel bags with drums. These have straps and handles. Further, these bags also have internal padding. This prevents damage while travelling.

Cajon Spinner

You may want to purchase a Cajon spinner. It is a disc or a large tab-like structure that serves as a spinning platform. Using this, you can switch sides while playing multiple instruments.

Side Mount

A Cajon side-mount is a great addition to the set. This plate holds the accessories you need while playing a Cajon.

Cajon Adapter

You may also want to check out a Cajon adapter. This holds the Cajon but does not compromise the sound quality. In other words, an adapter positions the Cajon drum. Again, this is at a height and a distance you are comfortable with. 

  • Cajon Stand- Why not try a Cajon stand? This is a great option for people who want to switch between instruments in performance. Just go for a sturdy stand with a tripod base and angle adjustment features.

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Accessories To Enhance The Music

Snare Wire

Is your Cajon drum snared? No? Then you can attach external or internal snares to your Cajon box. Snare wires/meshes are easily available. Just go for the adjustable ones. Occasionally, guitar wires are used.

Cajon Drum Sticks

Like regular drum sticks, Cajon drums also have these accessories. But they are slightly different. Cajon drum sticks have rubberized tubing around them. In this way, you create rhythm yet protect the tapa from being cracked. 

Cajon Brush

Try the Cajon brushes. These brushes have polymer filaments. Using them adds a different sound variety and special effects while playing music. Moreover, the filament length can be adjusted. 

Cajon Pedal & Beater

Many people use Cajon pedals combining a stand, pedal and beater. One can control the pedal by your foot. Similarly, a Cajon beater, once fixed, rhythmically strikes the tapa to add a steady note to the music. 

Cajon Pillow

Imagine a pillow placed inside a Cajon box. This is exactly what it is, a sound control pillow. This Cajon pillow lowers resonance and enhances bass notes.

Cajon Microphone Processor

You can place this small electronic processor inside the soundhole, and you can rest it on the sound pillow too. This device processes the acoustic sounds of the Cajon drum. You can set additional sounds and rhythms that you to add to your Cajon sounds.

Cajon Base Plate

When a percussionist wishes to add more bass sounds to the Cajon drum, they use this device. Once you attach this base plate to the Cajon drum, it modifies the bass sounds. After that, the transformed notes sound just like regular bass drum rolls.

Cajon Port/ Bass Tube

You can fit this accessory inside a Cajon soundhole. This port or bass tube reduces the resonance, and it increases the bass notes.

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Accessories To Maintain Your Cajon Drum

  • A Cajon drum is a percussion box made of wood. And the wooden surfaces need regular TLC. For great sound production, you need to maintain them. You also need to keep the Cajon away from heat, dust, parasites and moisture.
  • Therefore, you need to store a Cajon drum in a dry place. Then, you can use a Cajon case and use a padded Cajon bag to transport it.
  • Or, you may want to purchase a cleaning kit. It must contain brushes, soft cloths and varnish. Certainly, cleaning oils and silica gel packets will also help.

All these accessories are available online. You just need to select the most useful and relevant ones.

Benefits Of A Cajon Drum

Percussion instruments are fascinating. But did you ever think that playing a Cajon drum could be healthy? Here is a list of all these wonderful benefits.

Stress Relief

Playing any music soothes the mind. But when you are playing an instrument like a Cajon drum, you need patience and energy. Since you focus your mind and energy on the rhythm, you have no room for bad thoughts. 

Happy Hormones

Creating music is an art, and making music on a Cajon drum requires huge creativity. Every creative process makes the brain signal the release of happy hormones. For instance, endorphins, dopamine and serotonin. Above all, these encourage the feeling of wellbeing and joy.

Curing Psychological Disorders

Modern life is indeed stressful. And this stress takes on the form of many disorders like OCD and ADHD. Moreover, some people lack confidence or develop nervous habits. However, playing a Cajon drum uses up all the nervous energy, and it focuses attention on one task. It disciplines the mind.

A Workout

Percussion requires a lot of energy. And what better way to burn off some calories in a creative way than drumming? Firstly, drumming tones back, hand and leg muscles. Some studies point that Cajon drumming strengthens the respiratory system. As also the vascular and digestive systems. Thus, you make your immune response stronger.

Motor Co-ordinatio

Drumming requires eye-ear-hand coordination. Likewise, playing on a Cajon drum is no exception. Thus, your reflexes, dexterity and motor coordination improve when playing a Cajon box. 

Just Fun!

If not for anything else, just try Cajon drumming for fun. Set the style and rhythm you want and create the music you love! Jam with friends! Trying new music on your Cajon drum in a studio or a live gig! Doesn’t it sound amazing!

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How To Choose Cajon Drum Brands In India – A Buying Guide

best cajon drums in india buying guide swag swami article

Before you make your choice of a Cajon drum, we want you to consider the following factors. Cajon drums are not very technical and difficult instruments, but they need skill and patience. They aren’t expensive either. 

Even then, we recommend you not to go for any random Cajon drum. Then why not make a perfect choice? We have compiled a list of important purchase factors just for you.

Type Of Material

A Cajon drum is primarily a wooden box/case with a soundhole. Usually, birch, walnut, ash, pine, cherry or applewood is used to make Cajon drums. But only one surface-the tapa has layers of thin plywood. 

The quality of wood decides the quality of the sound. In addition to it, it affects the durability of the striking surface. Therefore, always go for a Cajon made from quality wood.

Type Of Cajon Drum

There are many sub-types of Cajon drums, depending on their construction. These are Peruvian, Flamenco, Cuba and Snare. In addition, there are Slap-top, Bongo, Bata so on. They differ in design and the sound they produce. 

Additionally, you can use different types of Cajon drums for different kinds of music. But not all are suitable for every studio/ live audience. So, based on the music you want to create & the gigs you are playing at, make a choice.

Style

As mentioned before, the design and sound of various Cajones vary. But the style of playing the Cajon depends on whether it is a solo performance or accompaniment. This is where individual parts and wood matter. 

As far as the design style is concerned, the number of surfaces and overall shape matters. For example, a Cuban Cajon has four sides and a square tapa. But a slap-top Cajon is two-headed/ T-shaped. 

Slap Corners & Sound Port

For various ranges of sound to your music, consider a Cajon with slap corners. So, many Cajon makers shape the Cajones to include crisp slap corners. With this, you can add a higher pitch and finger rolls to the music.

The soundhole or sound port is the gap that project sounds forward. For example, most snare, Peruvian, Flamenco Cajons have a rear sound port. However, the Cuban Cajon has an open Cajon floor. And Bongo Cajons have forward-facing dual ports. 

Depending upon the audience’s distance at a gig or mics in the studio, choose the perfect Cajon. 

Size

Usually, Cajon drums are 18 by 12 or 19 by 13 inches. And as you already know, you need to sit on the Cajon while playing them. Cajon drums come in square, rectangular, trapezoid shapes. As also hexagonal and octagonal shapes. So select the size and shape most comfortable for you.

Weight

Cajon drums range from 2-7 kg in weight. Select the one that you find easy to set up, play on and carry around.

Adjustability

By this factor, we mean adjustability of sound. If you select the most basic Peruvian model, it will have no such feature. But buying a snare or Flamenco Cajon will make a wide range of music possible. So, buy one with adjustable snares or the one on which you use can use accessories. 

Features

You can easily get a Cajon drum that looks sleek and has a brilliant variety of sounds. First, go through the product descriptions and accessories available. Then buy the percussion box with most features that offer comfort while playing and the best sound.

Sounds And Tone

Generally, the central part of the tapa produces a bass note. However, you can use the part above it for finger rolls and corners for a higher pitch. The snares/ guitar strings and added accessories add to the tonal variety. 

So, do buy a Cajon drum with great quality wood. But, on the other hand, poor material will compromise sound quality.

Quality Of The Cajon

We can guess what you are thinking. How do I find the balance between quality and price? In this case, if you do not buy a reasonably good quality Cajon, it will be evident at the first beat. 

Hence, do go through our review above. We have listed many Cajon drums which offer quality at a reasonable price.

Audience

Live gigs and studio performances are so different. Firstly, the distance at which the audience sits matters. Moreover, factors like sound amplification, sound range & tonal variations matter. If possible, buy different Cajon sets for different performances. 

Generally, a live audience will need Cajons with acoustic and amplifier ports. Additionally, you may need a bass tube/port. But in a studio, any Cajon box with a mic processor will work fine.

Price

Yes, price is important. But a high-end Cajon may not be the perfect one for you. Also, buying a lesser quality Cajon will not make the music great. However, do not worry. Several brands offer enough quality, customization and comfort in their Cajon drums. 

Just choose the one that sounds and feels right to you. Also, take another look at our review above. You will realize that great music and fun does not have to burn a hole in your pocket!

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Cajon Drums-Frequently Asked Questions

We are almost at the end of our review. And we are sure that a Cajon drum will be an exciting purchase for you. But, before you purchase one, go through our list of FAQs. Surely these will answer any other doubts you have.

Are Cajon Drums Hard To Play?

Well, not really. Anyone with a basic sense of rhythm and percussion ability can manage a Cajon. It is not a very technical instrument. Even then, you can undergo formal training in it, if you like.

Will Playing A Cajon Drum Harm My Back?

Ideally not. But we understand your concern. Just buy a Cajon in the shape, size and weight you feel comfortable with. Then, while playing it, you could tilt the Cajon forward or backwards. 

Also, you need not sit atop a Cajon. For instance, you can sit behind it, on a chair and play it. Or you can use a Cajon stand to adjust the height. Initially, start with the amount of time you feel okay with. In addition, you can use back support if needed.

Are Cajon Drums Very Expensive In India?

Not at all. Many Cajon brands sell Cajon drums at a reasonable price. Go through our review above again to be assured.

Are Cajon Drums, Percussion Drums And Regular Snare Drums The Same?

All of these are percussion instruments. The Cajon drum looks like a wooden case but is a drum. The various drums in any drum set are percussion, acoustic and snare drums.

But you can make a Cajon drum sound like a regular drum by using snares, mic processors, bass tubes and cabasas.

Can A Cajon Drum Substitute A Drum Set?

A Cajon drum can substitute for a standard drum set. Even Cajon drums have moved ahead with modern times. Now so many modifications in the design and accessories make the Cajon drums’ smart’.

Certainly, Cajon drums are easier to set up and move around than a full drum set. Moreover, Cajon sound complements many types of music. But, some musicians are of the mind that some gigs can’t do without a regular drum set.

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Can I Take Cajon Lessons Online?

Sure! Many percussionists use Cajon drums. This is because so many Indian musicians have started experimenting with Cajon drums. Meanwhile, there are many tutorials online that you can learn from. Or just find such a music teacher near you.

Will I Be Able To Use My Regular Drumming Accessories With A Cajon?

It is advisable not to. Since a Cajon drum is unlike any other. The wooden-case like structure and the unique way of playing a Cajon set it apart. However, it makes it very difficult to use regular drum accessories on it. Also, drum accessories could damage the Cajon drum surfaces.

Are Cajon Drums The Same As Bongo Drums?

They are not. Firstly, these are two different percussion instruments. However, you can get a sub-type of Cajon drums called Bongo Cajon. This sub-type has two smaller Cajon drums having a separate tone and sound. 

Cajon Drum-DIY-Is It Possible?

Yes, it is. You can find many tutorial videos where you can learn to make Cajon drums. But make sure you have the expertise, quality parts and the required tools. 

Maybe you could buy one first. Then, initially, practice with this Cajon. You could familiarize yourself with its design first and then build one. Certainly, this would be the best course of action.

Is A Cajon An Outdooor Drum?

A Cajon drum is a versatile and practical instrument. Hence, you can play a Cajon drum outdoors or in a studio. But if you are playing it at an outdoor gig, make sure you have amplifiers and mic processors in place.

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Conclusion

Cajon drums are wonderful and simple percussion instruments. Consequently, a novice to a professional-both can enjoy these drums the same.

Although many Cajon drums are available, we think the Clapbox Adjustable Snare Cajon is the best choice. It gives great value for money in terms of sound range and quality material. Just try it!

Please let us know what you think of our choice in the comments section below. Also, let us know what we should review next.



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