Adding a set of timbales to a drum kit can be difficult and result in space compromises that affect adversely how you play. Given that the timbale, in the drum kit set up, is used more for latin fills rather than specific timbale patterns, the Meinl MDT13CH is a useful compromise that allows the expansion of your kit without compromising how you play.
The drum itself is a 13 inch diameter steel shell with 6 tuning points. The tuners themselves are tuned from the bottom using a supplied spanner. Although more awkward to use than a standard tuning key, the spanner allows for the much higher tensioning that timbales require.
The build quality and chroming of this drum is excellent- as you would expect. The holder attachment is robust but simple and does not provide for any angle adjustment. If mounted on a cymbal stand it would be level which would not suit all drummers, including me. Alternative methods of mounting could be on a snare cradle or, my own favoured method, which is on a 10.5mm tom holder mounted on a cymbal stand. I position it between the hi hat and the high tom (where a crash cymbal would normally sit) and it`s perfectly placed for those rapid fire latin fills!......
Soundwise this drum really delivers - sharp, cutting but not abrasive sounds make latin fills sound really authentic and the rim height makes rim-shots easy to play. I like this drum a lot....it`s not the first drum of this type that I`ve owned but it`s the first one that doesn`t sound like a cheap snare drum with the bottom head taken off. Incidentally, if you knock the snare off your snare drum you can use that as a low timbale.....that`s when the fun really starts!... Meinl, of course, are a well respected maker of percussion instruments and this timbale won`t disappoint.....I definitely recommend it...great value for money as well!...
