What kind of wood is 'Lava Burl' in Cajon?

The Wood of the “Lava Burl” Cajon: A Closer Look

Introduction

The “Lava Burl” Cajon is a unique percussion instrument that stands out for its distinctive design and captivating sound. One of the key elements that contribute to its character is the choice of wood used in its construction. In this article, we will delve into the specific type of wood known as “Lava Burl” and explore its significance in crafting the Cajon.

What is Lava Burl Wood?

Lava Burl wood is a visually striking material characterized by its intriguing patterns and textures. It is reminiscent of the flowing lava found in volcanic landscapes. The wood’s captivating appearance adds an aesthetic appeal to the Cajon, making it visually captivating and unique.

The Body Material: Baltic Birch

The body material of the “Lava Burl” Cajon is Baltic Birch (Betula pendula). Baltic Birch is a hardwood known for its durability and resonance. It is a popular choice in instrument construction due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and stability. The resonating body of the Cajon is made of 9-ply, 12 mm thick solid Baltic Birch, which contributes to the instrument’s overall tonal characteristics.

The Playing Surface: Mongoy

The playing surface of the Cajon, where the musician strikes to produce sound, is made of Mongoy wood. Mongoy is a dense hardwood known for its rich tonal qualities and responsiveness. This carefully selected wood ensures a balanced and articulate sound projection when playing the Cajon.

The Front Plate: Lava-Burl Wood

The front plate of the “Lava Burl” Cajon is crafted from Lava-Burl wood. This unique wood not only adds to the instrument’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its overall sound characteristics. The Lava-Burl front plate enhances the tonal qualities of the Cajon, providing a distinct and captivating sound.

Bass Reflex System and Snare Effect

The “Lava Burl” Cajon incorporates a special bass reflex system that enhances the low-end notes and delivers a deeper bass sound. This system allows for a more resonant and powerful bass response, adding depth to the instrument’s overall sound profile.

To achieve a snapping snare effect, the Cajon is equipped with two sets of five micro-coiled metal cajon strings inside. These strings are hand-wound in the style of master cajon builder, José “Pepote” Hernández Diaz. Each set of strings is adjustable by tuning screws, allowing the player to fine-tune the snare effect according to their preference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the “Lava Burl” Cajon stands out not only for its visually captivating Lava-Burl front plate but also for its carefully selected wood materials and thoughtful design features. The combination of Baltic Birch for the body, Mongoy for the playing surface, and the bass reflex system with adjustable snare strings contributes to the instrument’s unique sound and versatility.

The use of Lava Burl wood adds a visually striking element to the Cajon, making it a visually captivating instrument. This, combined with its exceptional sound quality, makes the “Lava Burl” Cajon a remarkable choice for percussionists seeking a distinctive and expressive musical experience.

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FAQs

What kind of wood is ‘Lava Burl’ in Cajon?

Lava Burl is a type of wood used in crafting the Cajon, a percussion instrument. It is known for its visually striking appearance, with unique patterns and textures resembling flowing lava.

What is the body material of the “Lava Burl” Cajon?

The body material of the “Lava Burl” Cajon is Baltic Birch (Betula pendula). Baltic Birch is a hardwood known for its durability and resonance, making it a popular choice in instrument construction.

What wood is used for the playing surface of the Cajon?

The playing surface of the Cajon is made of Mongoy wood. Mongoy is a dense hardwood known for its rich tonal qualities and responsiveness, providing a balanced and articulate sound when the Cajon is played.

What type of wood is the front plate of the “Lava Burl” Cajon made from?

The front plate of the “Lava Burl” Cajon is made from Lava-Burl wood. Lava-Burl wood is known for its unique patterns and textures, adding to the visual appeal of the Cajon while contributing to its overall sound characteristics.

Does the “Lava Burl” Cajon have any special features that enhance its sound?

Yes, the “Lava Burl” Cajon features a special bass reflex system that enhances the low-end notes, resulting in a deeper bass sound. Additionally, it is equipped with two sets of five micro-coiled metal cajon strings inside, delivering a snapping snare effect for added versatility in sound.

What are the dimensions of the “Lava Burl” Cajon?

The “Lava Burl” Cajon has approximate dimensions of 28.6 x 48.3 x 29.8 cm, providing a comfortable playing experience for musicians of various statures.