Latin Percussion

Latin Percussion LP861Z Giovanni Conga 11 3/4"

5.0 (15 reviews)

The LP Giovanni 11 3/4" conga delivers rich, resonant Palladium-era tone from a premium ash wood shell.

$749.99*$909.99Save 17%
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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 LP861Z Giovanni Palladium Conga is an 11 3/4" instrument developed in collaboration with legendary conguero Giovanni Hidalgo, paying tribute to the golden era of the Palladium dance hall. Its 32-inch shell is crafted from premium North American Ash Wood in a three-ply construction, providing the structural rigidity and tonal depth needed for both studio recording and live performance. The natural rawhide head responds dynamically across the full range of conga techniques, from open tones and slaps to heel-toe patterns, producing the warm, organic sound that defines traditional Latin percussion.

Attention to hardware and playability sets the LP861Z apart from standard-tier congas. The Extended Collar Comfort Curve II Rims feature a contoured profile that eases pressure on the hands and fingers, a meaningful advantage during extended performances or practice sessions. The Premium Galaxy hardware package includes reinforced LP Heart side plates and 3/8" diameter tuning lugs for secure, even tension across the head, while LP ProCare Shell Protectors guard the wood from stand contact. The natural satin finish paired with chrome appointments completes the drum's retro-modern aesthetic, making it as visually striking as it is sonically capable.

Key Features

32" Premium North American Ash Wood, 3-ply shell

Natural rawhide head

Natural Satin Finish with chrome hardware

Extended Collar Comfort Curve II Rims

Premium Galaxy hardware, reinforced LP Heart side plates with 3/8" diameter tuning lugs and LP ProCare Shell Protectors

Specifications

Brand
Latin Percussion
Model
LP861Z
Size
11 3/4" Conga
Shell Height
32"
Shell Material
Premium North American Ash Wood, 3-Ply
Head
Natural Rawhide
Rims
Extended Collar Comfort Curve II
Hardware
Premium Galaxy with Reinforced LP Heart Side Plates
Tuning Lugs
3/8" Diameter
Shell Protection
LP ProCare Shell Protectors
Finish
Natural Satin with Chrome Hardware
Body Material
Wood

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • 32-inch premium North American Ash Wood shell in a 3-ply construction delivers deep, resonant projection
  • Natural rawhide head provides warm, authentic tone suited for traditional and contemporary Latin styles
  • Extended Collar Comfort Curve II Rims reduce hand fatigue during long playing sessions
  • Premium Galaxy hardware with reinforced Heart side plates and 3/8" tuning lugs ensures stable, precise tuning
  • Natural satin finish with chrome hardware gives the drum a classic Palladium-era visual appeal

👎 Cons

  • Natural rawhide heads are sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, requiring periodic re-tuning
  • At 32 inches tall with a solid ash shell, the drum is heavy and less portable than fiberglass alternatives
  • Stand is not included and must be purchased separately
  • Premium construction and signature-series branding place it at a higher price point than entry-level congas

Frequently Asked Questions

The LP861Z is an 11 3/4" conga, which is the standard conga size suited for mid-range tones in ensemble playing.
It comes fitted with a natural rawhide head, which produces warm, authentic tonal characteristics favored in traditional Latin percussion.
The shell is constructed from premium North American Ash Wood in a 3-ply configuration, standing 32 inches tall for full, resonant projection.
The Extended Collar Comfort Curve II Rims are specially contoured bearing edges designed to reduce hand fatigue during extended playing sessions while maintaining full tonal response.
No, the LP861Z is the drum only. A conga stand must be purchased separately.