MusicRadar Verdict
A superb value cajon in a market awash with mid-price and mouth-watering high end 'boutique' instruments.
Pros
- +
Superb tonal response; sturdy construction.
Cons
- -
Lacks a bit of sheer volume; finish won't be to everyone's taste.
MusicRadar's got your back
We've been truly knocked out by the wonderful cajons from Spanish company Duende: their range of sounds but also their superb build-quality and innovative design features.
We're now taking a look at Duende's Pro cajon: coming in at 48cm x 30cm x 31cm it's a pretty 'standard' size and is made of birch wood (surround and frontplate). It's highly sturdy in their construction, with a silicon non-slip seat top and the finish is striking to say the least.
The black gloss sides and back contrast well with the colours and patterns on the frontplate and it has two V-shaped guitar string 'snare wire' sets that are adjustable with an included Allen key underneath the drum. In addition to the snares there is also a cluster of small jingles suspended underneath the seat that adds a touch more 'pizazz' to your strokes.
The Pro cajon is super responsive and considering its dimensions, gives back everything you try to elicit - in spades! With the Pro you can enjoy all frequencies with satisfying results.

"I believe I’ve got the last recording Jeff Beck ever did in the studios": Guitarist Mick Rogers thinks he's in possession of a piece of musical history

“If you want a good vocal, you gotta drink snake sperm”: Singer Jessica Simpson reveals the unusual drink that keeps her vocal cords in tip-top condition

“I was thinking at the time, if anyone wants to try and copy this video, good luck to them!”: How ’60s soul music, African rhythms and a groundbreaking video fuelled Peter Gabriel’s biggest hit