by Tonio » Wed May 26, 2004 8:46 pm
Ian,
I don't know about the marathons, however they are new as you mentioned.
Gon Bops are great congas, the IC model are International models which have the best hardware and is said to be the top model. However , they are old and may require new heads, the staves (wood) could be cracked where is important. You would need to check for yourself. But for that price, I would probably get them if they were in decent condition-but thats just me.
You should really play them first, to see if they really need any repairs. PLay them side by side, they will definately have a different tone vs Meinl's as MJW mentioned.
Then you would need to decide if its worth the risk getting something that would need repair(if it did). Gon Bops are notorious of needing repair, but are some great sounding drums. There isn't much being played today in the professional scene.
Not to confuse you since this would be your first set. Pick the pick one that would give you immediate satisfaction.
Good luck
T