by JimG » Sat Jul 14, 2007 1:16 pm
Are you looking at the new Tumbao PRO series? That is a good set. The current basic Tumbao series is not, IMHO. They are 10" and 11". I would liken them to Aspires.
Depending on your budget, I would consider getting just one really good drum to start. When I first starting in 1981, I got a set of gon bops. I was so interested in playing both drums, I did not concentrate on technique and am paying for it now after a 20 year hiatus. A good $400 new drum (LP Classic, even Gon Bops Acuna) will hold it's value much longer. You'll be satisfied longer as well.
Good technique on one drum will serve you much better than the temptation to start out with variations on two. I classify myself as a re-beginner. My technique was so sloppy, I couldn't advance. I ended up playing just one drum for 6 months to get it down. I'm still breaking old habits, but I can now bring out tones on one drum I never knew existed because I was using the other drums. Now, I add the second drum when it's called for, not just when it's standing there.
Just my opinion. good luck! And don't worry about wanting something new in a year's time. You'll want something new in 6 months... Welcome to the best addiction in the world!
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. -- Ralph Waldo Emerson