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If you believe that these unique instruments are a passing fad, think again. They've been in existence for ages and can sound sublime whether you decide to replace the sound of a full drum kit for unplugged situations or use them in more traditional Afro-Cuban or Flamenco settings.

When miked up properly from the rear of the cajon near the sound-hole, and even with a second mic close to the tapa (or sound board), you can achieve incredible results through a decent PA system. Meinl now even produces models with built-in transducers so you can just plug in and play without having to place any mics at all – very minimalist!

"Look for a model that's sturdy, able to take your weight easily and doesn't slip around as you play"

Sturdy, no slip

There are a great many sizes available and a huge variety of different woods are used in their construction, but you should be looking for a model that's sturdy, able to take your weight easily and doesn't slip around as you play.

Try to find one that has an easily adjustable and quiet snare mechanism for a variety of sound possibilities. Here's our top five picks to get you started…

5. Meinl Bass Pedal Cajon
£269

This is the 'big boy' on the block and certainly the loudest. Its revolutionary foot-operated control mechanism allows you to turn the 'snares' on or off whilst still playing with both hands!

4. Tycoon TK-224
£99

Feature-packed with wicked sounds and superb value at under £100, the exotic looking Tycoon cajon has an attractive wood-grain effect tapa. Two internal jingle bell clusters combine with four guitar-string 'snares' to add a subtle clatter.

3. Sonor Standard
£95

Punchy, snappy and affordable, this reasonably-priced birchwood body and birch tapa cajon has vertical bamboo strips as a snare mechanism – instead of wires or strings - which produces a classy and innovative drier sound.

Next page: Kotz Gajate Professional Model String Cajon and our top pick

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