Latin Percussion

Latin Percussion LP201AX-2RGM Richie Gajate-Garcia Bongos

3.4 (12 reviews)

Richie Gajate-Garcia signature bongos with Romanian Tilia wood shells, rawhide heads, and chrome hardware in a striking Mavi Satin finish.

$419.99*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 04, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Latin Percussion LP201AX-2RGM Richie Gajate-Garcia Signature Bongos are built for players who demand authentic Latin tone and reliable construction. The pair features 7-1/4-inch and 8-5/8-inch natural rawhide heads mounted on Romanian Tilia wood shells — a combination that produces the warm, cutting slap tones and open resonance that define traditional bongo playing. Chrome-plated hardware and 5/16-inch diameter tuning lugs keep the heads securely tensioned and allow for precise tuning adjustments with the included wrench, while steel backing plates and cast aluminum bottoms add rigidity and projection without unnecessary bulk.

Designed in collaboration with renowned percussionist Richie Gajate-Garcia, this model carries a distinctive Mavi Satin finish that sets it apart visually from standard production bongos. The satin treatment gives the Tilia wood a refined, stage-worthy look while letting the natural grain texture show through. At 12.6 pounds and measuring roughly 10 by 11 by 20 inches, the set strikes a practical balance between substantial enough to stay planted during aggressive playing and portable enough for regular gig transport. Whether used in a live ensemble, studio session, or practice room, these bongos deliver the articulate, dynamic response that serious percussionists expect from the LP signature line.

Key Features

Bongos - 7-1/4" & 8-5/8" natural rawhide heads

Beautiful, Mavi Satin finish

Chrome hardware, 5/16" diameter tuning lugs

Steel backing plate and Cast aluminum bottoms

Includes tuning wrench

Specifications

Brand
Latin Percussion
Model
LP201AX-2RGM
Series
Richie Gajate-Garcia Signature
Head Sizes
7-1/4" and 8-5/8"
Head Material
Natural Rawhide
Shell Material
Romanian Tilia Wood
Hardware
Chrome
Tuning Lugs
5/16" diameter
Backing Plate
Steel
Bottoms
Cast Aluminum
Finish
Mavi Satin
Weight
12.6 lbs
Dimensions
10.24 x 11.42 x 20.08 inches
Included
Tuning Wrench

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Natural rawhide heads deliver warm, authentic tonal character that improves with playing
  • Cast aluminum bottoms and steel backing plates provide durability and sustain
  • Chrome hardware with 5/16-inch tuning lugs allows precise, stable pitch adjustment
  • Romanian Tilia wood shells are lightweight yet resonant, reducing fatigue during long sessions
  • Tuning wrench included so the instrument is performance-ready out of the box

👎 Cons

  • At 12.6 pounds, the set is heavier than some synthetic-headed alternatives
  • Natural rawhide heads are sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, requiring occasional re-tuning
  • No carrying bag or case is included for transport
  • Satin finish may show scuff marks more readily than gloss or lacquer coatings

Frequently Asked Questions

The macho (smaller drum) measures 7-1/4 inches and the hembra (larger drum) measures 8-5/8 inches, both fitted with natural rawhide heads.
The shells are crafted from Romanian Tilia wood, a lightweight tonewood that produces warm, resonant tones favored in Latin percussion.
A tuning wrench is included in the box. The 5/16-inch diameter tuning lugs are standard and can be adjusted to raise or lower the pitch of each head.
Yes. The heads are mounted on standard-sized rims, so you can source replacement natural rawhide heads when they eventually wear from extended play.
Mavi Satin is a rich, satin-sheen color finish exclusive to this Richie Gajate-Garcia signature model, giving the bongos a distinctive stage-ready appearance while protecting the wood.