by congabebe » Sat Jul 20, 2002 3:27 pm
I got mine off ebay. I check daily to see what's out there. If you are patient, save up to about $500, you can get a good set that is better than the student models. I wanted to stay below 300, and you will find that the ones that are 200 + are student lines (10 to 11 inch heads) and not as good. I saw some Matadors for $475 (buy it now/no stand) that is a good deal. I looked at the shape of the drum, the fatter ones I think have a better sound, so the head sizes 11, 11 1/2, are going to be a bigger more mellow sound. You will pay about 60 to 80 for shipping and then there is tax depending on state. Toca is always cheaper than the LP's. I have seen 2 or so set with bongos go for 300 +, depending on model. Check out Musiciansfriend.com, they have some good deals and they are close to what you will end up getting on ebay. You will find there are lots of vendors on ebay. I got mine from AJ's Percussion Shop. He has good deals, and he is great to deal with. Good Luck.
Congabe