How to Choose Drumheads for Congas and Bongos

So, it’s time to replace the heads on your congas or bongos. You thought it would be a simple task, but you’re quickly realizing it’s not quite that easy—and it might even turn into a headache.

Don't worry. In this article, we’ll help you navigate one of the most common issues we encounter here at TamTam Percusion.

As many of you already know, congas and bongos don’t follow a standardized sizing system when it comes to drumheads. For example, a 10" tom will accept virtually any 10" head on the market. However, an 11.75" conga requires a very specific head that matches not just the size, but the brand and model of the drum.

Let’s go over the common problems and how to solve them.

I DON’T KNOW THE BRAND OR MODEL OF MY CONGAS OR BONGOS

This is, unfortunately, the most challenging scenario. Without that information, it’s virtually impossible to identify the correct replacement head. You have two options:

• Ask the store where you bought your congas or bongos. They should be able to provide the proper replacement head.
• Bring your drum to your nearest percussion shop and see if they can match a head from their inventory. (We recommend calling ahead—most stores carry limited stock of these specialized parts.)

I KNOW THE BRAND AND MODEL, BUT NOT THE SIZE

No problem—we can help with that.

When measuring your conga, you should measure only the playing surface, i.e., the diameter of the bearing edge of the shell, not the full diameter including the flesh hoop.

Once measured, your head size will likely correspond to one of these standard categories:

• Requinto 10” ( 25 cms)
• Quinto 11” (25.5 cms)
• Conga 11.3/4” (30 cms)
• Tumbadora 12.5” (31.75 cms)
• Supertumba 13” (33 cms)

I KNOW THE BRAND, MODEL, AND SIZE OF MY CONGAS OR BONGOS

This is ideal—it greatly simplifies the process of finding the right drumhead.

You’ll usually find the brand and model info on a badge or label affixed to the shell. However, even with all this information, finding the right replacement isn’t always guaranteed.

There are two primary types of drumhead materials to consider: natural skin and synthetic (plastic). Neither is inherently better—it all depends on the player’s preferences and the playing context.

NATURAL HEADS

Natural skin heads deliver a warm, organic tone, but are sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature, which can affect tuning.

To order a natural head, just contact us by email or phone with your drum’s model details, and we’ll let you know which replacements are compatible.

Keep in mind that even knowing the brand and model doesn’t guarantee availability. If your congas are from a Polish brand from the 1950s, for instance, it’s unlikely we’ll be able to source parts.

SYNTHETIC HEADS

Synthetic heads tend to offer a brighter tone, greater volume, and more projection. They’re much more stable in tuning and virtually unaffected by environmental conditions.

Synthetic heads come in two main hoop types:

Symmetry

These resemble standard drum set heads. Both Remo and Evans produce a variety of models in this format.

Remo offers three synthetic materials for their Symmetry series:

• Fiberskyn (warm, calfskin-like tone)
• Nuskyn (balanced tone with low overtones)
• Skyndeep (bright and highly durable with graphic film overlay)

If your congas are from LP, Meinl, Gon Bops, or Toca, consult these compatibility guides:

• LP Drumhead Compatibility Guide
• Meinl Drumhead Compatibility Guide
• Gon Bops Drumhead Compatibility Guide
• Toca Drumhead Compatibility Guide

Evans, while covering fewer conga models than Remo, is still a top choice for many professional percussionists. Check out their guide to find the right fit for your drum.

Tucked

Exclusive to Remo, Tucked heads use the same synthetic materials as Symmetry, but are designed to emulate traditional conga head construction. The film is wrapped around a steel flesh hoop, allowing it to work with traditional counterhoops.

If your drums use traditional-style rims, Tucked heads may be your best synthetic option.

We hope this short guide makes it easier for you to find the perfect drumhead from our wide selection.

As always, if you need technical advice or assistance of any kind, don’t hesitate to reach out:

• Telf: +34 954 907 226
• Whatsapp: +34 672 655 950
• E-mail: info@tamtampercusion.com
• Or visit us at our store in Mairena del Aljarafe, Seville

We hope you found this guide helpful

Jose Manzanares Product Specialist