Ok, so many ppl have been asking me lately about tuning the cajon strings and how it actually works. thing is, there is no set way to do it, unlike the guitar or piano, and really the main feature of the tuning of the strings tighter or looser means more or less snare effect (and perhaps a bit of changing the actualy tone, but that is more present when applying pressure to the front panel of the cajon whilst slapping it)
So it’s really simple…. Tune the strings tighter for a tighter, cleaner sound and a fast response, and loosen them for more snare sound, higher frequencies and sustain. I personally tweak them a little, then try the cajon and tweak more until I have achieved the desired sound from my cajon.
Another little trick you could so is to tape certain parts of the strings against the inside of the front panel of the cajon.
This is very useful especially if your strings have started getting a bit tired and you get a buzzing sound. Where you place the tape would obviously depend on where the problem/buzz lies, so you will once again, use your own intuition and try it out, test it, get to know your cajon and get to know what sounds you like and which sounds you don’t like.
You could also put a towel inside the cajon to reduce snare sounds/hollow sounds and buzzing. this is a good idea especially when micing up your cajon.
Got any advise on tuning strings and buzzing strings?
Please share it below with us!
Hello from California
Is the Meinl mini cajon snares tuned differently than a full size cajon? To me it looks like the side screws are where you do the tuning?
Thanks very much,
Catrina
Hello Catrina!
I actually don’t know about the Meinl Mini cajons, but tightening on loosen the screws on the frontboard is one way to get a different sound. If you have snares in the cajon and not guitar strings like the traditional flamenco cajons, I don’t think you can tune (tighten or loosen) the snares. Hope this helps!
Hi
which string of guitar are you using in cajon
thank you very much
I went too hard on mine and now my strings are buzzing like one of those boingy boingy sounding instruments you play with your mouth. I love how I’m not the only one who is having this problem. Thought about buying a new one but remembered the love I have for my slap top and decided to want to mend it instead. Keep beating.
Hey!
I wanted to buy a Cajon and was wodering how many strings are required for a decent beginner level Cajon? I have learnt tabla for 9 years before this.
Thanks!
hi my cajon wont stop buzzing can some 1 plz tell me how to fix it