This is an LP top of the line bongo, and you'll notice that the first time you grab it.
My goodness this is heavy. Like picking up a good rock. No wonder LP has stands (also meant to sit in classic bongo playing position) for it, because you won't hold these ones between your legs for long without getting the cramps.
(EDIT: That's the LP330D stand)
When you turn it around and look at the thick, massive wood of the kettles, immediately you'll see why it weighs so much.
It looks beautiful too. The wrap is very strong. I was worried for it's durability beforehand , but this won't be scratched to ugliness too easily on the road.
It comes with a pouch with LP lug lube and a tuning wrench, with little rubber caps to cover the bottom lug ends it stands upon.
Sound: the combination of the bigger size, quality wood and natural hand-picked hides guarantee it's deep and warm tone.
But this combination is also the most sensitive to detune due to weather- and temperature fluctuations.
However as even cheap bongo's can keep a tuning after hours of playing, (and I played a lot of those) I don't worry about this one.
I'll use this in acoustic set ups, low tuned and it almost sounds like conga-ish that way.
I chose for the bigger size because it's going to be played solo-supportive in minimal acoustic set-ups mostly, instead of together with drums.
If you want the deeper tones, be sure you take this size.
Also look for a quality stand with it to fulfill your playing style.
