Synthetic Djembe Sound vs. Wooden Djembe Sound

One of the more frequently asked questions we get here at Mother Rhythm is how a synthetic djembe sound differs from that of a wooden djembe sound. We want to take a moment here to bring some light on this subject and show you the characteristics of each drum as well as some sound clip examples for each. The examples we’ll be showing you today will be the one of the best Synthetic Djembes we’ve come across, the Freedom Fiberglass Djembe, and, similarly, one of the best wooden djembes listed on our site , The Freedom Pro Series djembe.

Keep in mind that each djembe is unique, so these specs are not all-encompassing for ALL Synthetic djembes or ALL Wooden Djembes. Many factors influence the sound of each particular drum such as synthetic djembe shell type (ie fiberglass, PVC), wood djembe shell type (ie mahogany, iroko), shell size, shell shape, skin type, shell density, degree of tuning etc, etc. Therefore the examples we give you are just examples, they’ll give you a great idea of sound and construction differences, but you shouldn’t expect your particular drum to sound exactly like what you hear in the sound clips.

For the Synthetic Djembe, let’s take a look at the XL Size Lava Flow Fiberglass Series Djembe by Freedom Drums:

Roped with premium internally braided HTB non-stretch nylon rope
Freedom’s innovative new FiberSkin head technology employed. The head looks and feels just like real goat skin but maintains its tune much longer.
Fiberglass shell makes for louder and resonating tones
Light-weight, easy to travel with, won’t crack during climactic fluctuations, etc
Two-ring head construction

Freedom Drums XL Lava Flow Fiberglass Series:

xl-freedom-fiberglass.mp3xl-freedom-fiberglass.mp3

Now lets look at our wooden djembe example, the XL Conquering Lion Pro Series Djembe by Freedom Drums:

Made from one-piece plantation mahogany heartwood
Grooved spiral pattern into the interior shell wall for crisp airflow.
Kiln-dried with multiple coats of teak oil to prevent cracks.
Headed with premium shaved and untreated goatskins taken from the goat’s spine.
Three-ring head construction locks the skin in place and eliminates slippage.
Roped with premium internally braided HTB non-stretch nylon rope strong enough to last a lifetime.

Freedom Drums XL Conquering Lion Pro Series Sound Clip:

xl-freedom-pro-series.mp3xl-freedom-pro-series.mp3

As you can see, each drum has it’s own set of advantages and unique qualities. From here, it’s all about what you prefer as an individual player and it’s also important to consider the setting in which you’ll be playing your drum. For example, if you’ll be traveling quite a bit, it would probably be a good idea to consider a synthetic djembe due to their lighter-weight quality. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a traditional look and sound that only a wooden djembe can provide, the choice will be obvious.
If you have any more questions about fiberglass drums, wooden drums, or anything drumming in general, please don’t hesitate to contact us. As always, “Be Well In Rhythm!”

-Mother Rhythm Drums Staff