Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are ABSTRACT CONGAS?

ABSTRACT CONGAS are The Hand Painted Creations of Artist, Photographer and Conguero, Ed Masterson. Ed wanted to capture the magic and dynamics of the Conga thru his art.


Why ABSTRACT CONGAS?

In Playing and Performing, you want to make a statement! ABSTRACT CONGAS do just that with the Tone Wood (either birch or maple) stave shell construction, Manito Percussion PreMounted™ Peruvian Heads, and a sound that is as unique as the strong visual presence your drums will have on the stage!

ABSTRACT CONGAS ARE 100% original pieces of artwork. No two are alike! Each Drum is hand-painted by Ed Masterson. Most manufacturers try to achieve this look by using printed graphics that wrap the drum. This allows for mass production of the same piece of artwork. When you buy an ABSTRACT CONGA you get an original piece of art!


What type of Drum Head come on the congas?

The LP and Mienl drums come with the manufacturer’s head.

All ABSTRACT CONGAS come with Manito Percussion PreMounted™ Peruvian Heads.

You can call us to request your preference of skin to customize your order.


What make or brand are the physical conga drums?

We sell multiple brands including Mienl, Latin Percussion and our own brand ABSTRACT CONGAS.

Mienl & LP drums range from New to Reconditioned models.

ABSTRACT CONGAS are New drums.

Please check the product description for each.


What size are the Congas?

ABSTRACT CONGAS are al 29 inch drums. Please check the individual product description for sizing of the drums that are LP or Mienl.


How much is shipping?

Please check each individual product for shipping cost during the check-out process.

How do ABSTRACT CONGAS sound?

ABSTRACT CONGAS capture the traditional tone and sounds of Cuban Drums with the Tone Wood shell construction combined with Manito Percussion PreMounted™ Peruvian Heads.

Tone Wood produces a sound that has the tone and depth that other drum shells cannot rival using birch or maple wood. Birch Wood Shells are commonly used in high-end drum construction and are great for producing bright, cutting slap tones along with a a warm deep bass response. Tone Woods are used in high-end guitars, drums and other instruments because of the acoustic and resonant qualities.

Manito Percussion PreMounted™ Peruvian Heads use steer skin for a warm and classic sound with crisp slaps, round open tones, rich bass and controlled overtones. Steer excels in both studio and live applications.


How are ABSTRACT CONGAS painted??

Each ABSTRACT CONGA is individually hand-painted through a proprietary paint and layering technique that uses a multi-stage process. Each drum is labor intensive and takes 3-4 weeks to cure and complete.

Because these are hand-made, their are variations and imperfections in the texture and pile across the drum, adding to the magic!


Where are ABSTRACT CONGAS produced?

The drums are produced and painted at the Masterson Studio Ranch in the mountains of Julian, California. Because of the work intensiveness of each drum, production is limited to a max of 30 sets per year.


Do you do special orders?

Yes! Special Orders are possible. Please contact us directly at 858-243-3040 or emasterson@mastersoncreative.com. The selection currently available is what is displayed on this site but we add more each month.


What’s the Story on the Canvas Paintings?

These are abstract oil paintings created by Ed Masterson during the drum painting process. They are 24 x30 canvases available for purchase to be displayed in your home, office or music studio.


What is your Return or Refund Policy?

We want you to be happy with your drum so we offer a 10-day return policy for any reason. Shipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility. Please contact emasterson@mastersoncreative.com within 10 days of receipt of drum for refund/return authorization.