FAQ
How do you properly replace and tune a Mondo Djembe drumhead to achieve the best sound and performance?
MONDO™ DJEMBES
Remo Mondo™ key-tuned djembes are tensioned to perform right out of the box.
Some professional players will match the open/bass tone to the root note of an ensemble.
In most cases, it's player preference based off desired response and pitch.
General rule of thumb: The looser the head is, the lower the tone and response. The tighter the head is, the higher tone and response.
REPLACING MONDO™ DRUMHEAD
Remove the drum tuning rods in a crisscross method until all of them are loose.
Completely remove all tuning parts (drum rods, washer and claw hooks).
Remove the drumhead and wipe the drum bearing edge with a towel to remove any dust particles.
Place the new drumhead on the drum and locate the Remo Crown on the Mondo™ drumhead opposite the front badge on the drum shell.
Reassemble the drum rods, washers and claw hooks on the djembe.
Finger tighten all drum rods around the drum in a crisscross method.
TUNING MONDO™ DJEMBE
The new Mondo™ drumhead will have a 90 degree edge. As tension is applied, the drumhead will conform to the bearing-edge of the drum-shell, creating a beveled edge.
After all drum rods are finger tight, begin tuning by using a crisscross method.
Starting with drum rod #1, give a whole turn clockwise and continue till you complete tuning each point. You may need to repeat this a few times depending on how high you like the drum pitch to be. Once you start feeling a little resistance, give it a half turn following the same pattern.
Check the pitch by tapping the rim over each tuning point so you can hear the high frequencies. Try to match the pitch around the entire drum.
TIME TO REPLACE DRUMHEAD
The Mondo™ drumhead is very durable and will last a long time. It is a replaceable drumhead and will stretch throughout the life of the drum.
When the claw hook reaches the arrow point shown below, you may bottom out and exceed the length of the contour tuning bracket, prompting head replacement.
