Not so long ago, we received yet another parcel from DrumStore – an excellent outlet based in Gdynia, Poland. Inside, there were two interesting bass drum pedals (single and double) as well as a cajon, all of which we have thoroughly tested for you. It is now time to share the results of our tests with you. Today, we would like to present our review of the Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large cajon.
Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large Natural Front Cajon
1. The product
We tested the Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large Natural Front cajon at our own recording facility.
2. Basic product specification:
- Manufacturer: Natal Drums
- Product type: Cajon
- Model: Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large
- Finish: Natural
- Material: Birch
- Size: XL
- Snare tension adjustment: Yes
- Sound port: Yes, on the rear panel
- Rubber feet: Yes
- Rounded corners: No
- Thumb notches: No
- Tuning key: No
3. Product and sound
The Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large cajon is made from birch, which is becoming more and more popular in build instruments of this type due to its sonic qualities. The front plate is also made from birch. The instrument looks really great and is yet another example of very good design combined with practicality. The snares can be moved closer or further away from the front slap via a drum key-operated bolt on the side. A key is not included, but any standard drum key will be compatible.
How can we describe the sound of this cajon? It is equipped with metal snares placed on the other side of the front. Birch provides good projection (as it usually does) while the tone is rather full (which can be attributed to an extra large size of the box), crisp, bright and warm. There are no thumb notches or rounded corners, which obviously does not influence the quality of the sound in any way, but a player’s comfort would be slightly better.
We should also mention that this instrument comes in two more finishes: Black and Cherry.
4. Summary
The Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large Natural Front cajon is a very good instrument, which will satisfy players both in studio and live. Snare adjustment causes no problems and the look is sheer eye candy regardless of the front plate finish. Also, the price (about EUR 120 / USD 140) cannot be considered a deterrent.
Here is an audio sample of the Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large Natural Front
OUR VERDICT: 5/5
Manufacturer: http://www.nataldrums.com/
Distributor in Poland: http://drumstore.pl/
Advantages:
- Nice design
- Very well crafted
- Warm sound
- Good projection
- Easy snare adjustment
- High grip top
In between:
- No rounded corners or thumb notches
Disadvantages:
- None
Drummers and Drummerettes! Feel free to test Natal CJAN-XL-SWBN X-Large at a drum store near you as they undoubtedly are worth checking out.
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