The Cajon has earned its fame as one of the popular percussion instruments we know today. It is such a pleasurable musical instrument to play. You can find budding musicians or professionals practicing with their Cajon at the park or on the streets. In many cases, a little crowd gathers to listen and enjoy the wonderful sounds produced by the Cajon.
The origins of the Cajon can be traced to Peru. The Cajon is shaped like a box; it has a surface made from thin plywood which is tapped with the hands or drumsticks to produce the musical sounds.
Over the years, the Cajon has evolved. They cannot be simply described as those box-shaped drums used to make music. The Cajon now has different features and accessories which help musicians improve the sounds produced.
You can find Cajons among a musical drum set in many instances. The unique sounds from a Cajon have made them a compulsory feature when the songs to be played are from Peruvian origins. Also, the Cajon is now used to perform English, French, Irish folk music and Jamaican songs.
The expert who plays a Cajon is called a percussionist. It is their job to skilfully beat the thin wooden surface of the Cajon in rhythm with the song. The percussionist finds this job easier with the use of suitable accessories to improve their performance.
The different accessories for Cajon were discovered over time as the features of the musical instrument evolved. Now, you can find Cajon in modern musical settings because of innovative accessories such as sound control and snares which improve the music.
Cajon accessories are also easy to use, many of these products are portable, and so you can easily fit them in the gig bag or Cajon case when in transit. There are also accessories such as the foot tambourines which have been added to the Cajon ensemble. The sounds produced by these accessories complement the beats from a Cajon.
There are also Cajon accessories for convenience. To play the musical instrument, you will need to be hunched over the Cajon which is positioned in-between your ankles in a seated position. Accessories such as the Cajon stand, pads, and the saddle help you keep the musical instrument in the right position throughout your performance.
Here are some of the essential Cajon accessories you should consider buying.
25 Best Cool and Essential Cajon Accessories
1) Case and gig bags for cajons
The standard Cajon case or gig bag is designed to protect your musical instrument. While the Cajon features strong joints which have been made sturdy to prolong the instrument’s lifespan, the gig bags protect areas such as the thin surface of the Cajon which is used to produce the beats.
There are different models of gig bags and Cajon cases; however, you should choose a model that features padded interior space and lining. The gig bags for Cajons also feature smaller compartments where you can keep some of the essential Cajon accessories safely.
Cajon cases and gig bags are also used to move the musical instrument from one location to the other easily. Gig bags and Cajon cases also protect your Cajon from elements such as dust and moisture that can destroy different parts of your Cajon. You should also make arrangements to get a gig bag because it helps you stay organized when you have scheduled performances.
2) Cajon Pedal
The Cajon pedal is an external accessory that is used to produce exceptional bass effects while playing the Cajon. The pedal is controlled by your foot; it is placed in a position where the drumstick attached to the Cajon pedal strikes the board at the right place to produce the sounds you want.
Cajon pedals make it possible for you to play beats for more music genres such as rock, pop, and others. The Cajon pedal gives you more options and flexibility which may not be attainable if you had to rely on only your two hands to play the musical instrument.
To get the right rhythm, you should position the Cajon pedal where it can be easily controlled by your foot and test the sounds produced when the drumstick strikes the Cajon. When you find a suitable striking position, it is time to start combining your beats to get a good rhythm.
3) Cajon brush
The Cajon brush is one of the newer innovations used by musicians to create a variety regarding the sounds and rhythm. They are made from strands of polymer which produce unique sounds when used to beat the Cajon during a performance.
Learning how to use the Cajon brush is easy when you already have drumstick skills. To add a new and exciting twist to your sounds, the brush will be most helpful. Cajon brushes can also be used in combination with the traditional drumsticks for more creative performance.
The impact of the Cajon brush on the surface which produces the sounds can be adjusted with the use of the rings. By moving the rings towards the tip of the brush, away from the handle, the sounds will be characteristically louder and deeper. However, for a lighter and more subtle beat, you can release more of the brush strands by sliding the rings closer to the brush handle.
4) Cajon seats, pads, and cushion
Playing the Cajon is exciting. It is easy to spend hours drumming on the musical instrument for hours. The duration of your session may even be longer when your sounds attract an audience. This is why the Cajon pads and cushions have been invented.
The seats, pads, and cushions for Cajons come in different sizes and features. They are made from high-quality foam, encased in leather or thick cotton materials for durability. Pads and cushions for the Cajon are used by placing the on the upper surface of the musical instrument.
When properly positioned, the pads provide a comfortable cushion for you to sit and play your Cajon. You can also find Cajon seats that have side pockets for storing your tambourine. The position of these pockets by the sides makes it easy for you to reach out and grab your tambourine when needed during a performance.
5) Cajon saddle
The Cajon saddle is one of the accessories that help improve your experience as a percussionist playing Cajons. These saddles provide feature a comfortable pad on which you can sit while playing the Cajon. They are made from high-quality leather featuring straps which hold the saddle securely to the Cajon.
To use the Cajon saddle, after positioning the padded seat and fixing the clasp, you can sit and enjoy a long practice session. Many versions of the Cajon saddle feature side pockets in which you can store more accessories for the Cajon which will be easily within reach.
6) Cajon Beater
The beaters for a Cajon can be handheld or fixed to a Cajon pedal. They are the accessories which strike the Cajon surface to produce the musical sounds. Cajon beaters are used to create sounds in rhythm to thrill the audience or during practice.
Beaters that have been fixed to Cajon pedals can be used in combination with the hands to play the musical instrument. Cajon beaters come in different sizes and lengths; your choice is dependent on the areas of the Cajon you need the beater to strike when fixed to a Cajon pedal.
It is also used by percussionists who need to infuse a subtle blend of bass into their music. The beaters, which are usually finished with wool or foam, provide a soft thud, when they strike the Cajon. When fixed to the Cajon pedal, the beaters are controlled by your foot movement on the Cajon pedal. Thus you determine the rhythm in which it strikes the Cajon.
7) Drumsticks for Cajon
Cajon drumsticks look like the conventional types used in the bands. However, since the sounds from the Cajon have lower notes than regular drums, you can find drumsticks for the Cajon that have been finished with rubber tubing to reduce the intensity of your beats.
The Cajon drumsticks are used in a similar way to the regular drumsticks. You hold them at the handle and play the beats or rhythm you want on the musical instrument. Cajon drumsticks can also be used in combination with the hands and brushes for a variety of sounds.
Using the Cajon drumsticks is convenient because they can be kept in the saddle pockets for easy reach. So you can have a creative performance combining the use of your hands and drumsticks to beat the Cajon. Drumsticks for the Cajon were introduced for people who would rather not use their hands to beat the Cajon.
8) Cleaning and maintenance kits
Using the products in a cleaning and maintenance kit can make your Cajon last longer. You can also be assured of proper functionality when it is well maintained. The Cajon is basically made from wood; this means the cleaning products that have been included in the kit are made to protect the wooden frame from damage.
Your Cajon can be damaged by exposure to dust, moisture or other elements that can compromise its functionality. In the cleaning kit, you will find items such as a cleaning cloth, natural varnish, cleaning oils, and other items which are good for wooden surfaces.
Regarding maintenance, there are brushes that can be used to clean the Cajon and its accessories. This action removes dust and dirt that can compromise the functionality of the musical instrument. It is advised that you should clean your Cajon after each use and regularly if it is in storage for a long time.
9) Mic processor
The mic processor is an electronic device that improves the acoustic sounds produced by a Cajon. Mic processors give you more opportunities to become more flexible when composing music with the Cajon.
With the mic processor, you can create beats with unique rhythms and have control over the tempo. Using a mic processor is not a complicated process. First, you will have to set up the mic in the sound hole of your Cajon. The mic is set in place with the use of special clips which come with the mic processor.
The acoustic sounds produced when you play the Cajon is recorded and processed by the accessory. The outcome, sound quality, and pitch, is in line with the settings of your mic processor. You can also use mic processors to modify the Cajon acoustic sounds by adding loops of an electronic rhythm suitable for your music.
10) Cajon stand
The Cajon stand is an important accessory which makes it possible for you to play the Cajon while standing in front of the musical instrument. The stand gives you more flexibility during a performance, instead of being confined to a seated position.
The Cajon stands have sturdy tripod bases which support the Cajon. To use the stand, first, you have to set it at a suitable height and check the clips to ensure they are functioning properly. Then you can mount your Cajon on the stand.
It is especially helpful to people who wish to combine the Cajon and regular drums during a performance. By positioning, the Cajon in a way similar to the regular drums, you can easily play beats and mix the rhythm as you please. Cajon stands also allow you to tilt the musical instrument to a suitable angle after you have securely mounted it on the stand.
11) Cajon snare
The Cajon snares are fixed in the Cajon at the upper part of the percussion instrument. When struck by hand or a brush, the snares produce a unique sound that can improve your music. Snares can be fixed and removed when necessary.
The Cajon snares are held in position by screws. They were introduced to the musical instrument by percussionists who experimented on how to improve the acoustic sounds and make the Cajon more suitable to play a wide range of songs.
With the right techniques, you can improve the tone of your music and the pitch, when snares are fixed on your Cajon.
12) Cajon heck stick
In the simplest terms, the Cajon heck stick is used to create special sound effects while playing the musical instrument. The Cajon heck stick was introduced a long time ago, over the years; its features have been modified and improved.
It is fixed to the musical instrument; you can decide to attach the heck stick to any part of the Cajon, regarding the thickness of wood on that face. Using the heck stick will require some listening skills since you will be carefully monitoring the sounds to know when you strike the right notes.
A Cajon that has been fitted with the heck stick can be used to achieve the type of grooves heard when the regular drums are used for a performance. With the use of heck sticks, it is also possible to blend the output sounds to make the Cajon more versatile and applicable like the drums. Expert percussionists have also found ways to create rolls with the Cajon that is similar to the cymbals.
13) Cajon adapter
For taller people, playing the Cajon can be quite stressful because of its somewhat restricted height. Except you are making a Cajon for yourself, you may need an adapter to accommodate your needs. The Cajon adapter is an innovative accessory that gives you the flexibility of increasing the sitting space and height of the musical instrument.
The Cajon is fitted into the adapter; there is no compromise of the sounds it produces because the adapter is created with openings on all sides. You can also use the Cajon adapter if you consistently feel like your legs are cramped after a training session or performance.
Cajon adapters are also recommended for percussionists who experience those annoying aches in their lower backs.
14) Cajon cymbal/Cajon hat
The Cajon cymbals, also called Cajon hats are innovative accessories that help percussionists improve their music. The Cajon cymbals are mounted on the side of the musical instrument during a performance.
Cajon cymbals add a unique tone to the sounds produced when they are beaten by hand or with the drumsticks. They are held securely to the Cajon with the use of screws. If you wish to play songs in genres such as pop, rock, or folk, you will find the cymbals quite helpful in creating the right tune.
Cajon cymbals are also commonly used by percussionists who prefer to use their hands to play the musical instrument. A slight tap on the cymbal creates the vibration needed to add an exciting twist to the music.
15) Cajon Cabasa
The Cajon cabasas are innovative accessories that have been introduced with the Cajon over the years. It was created to help percussionists explore more ways to improve their sounds. With the use of the Cajon cabasas, percussionists can achieve diversity when composing songs or experimenting with beats.
The Cajon cabasas have been found to be helpful when you need to play the musical instrument while maintaining a consistent pattern. The vibrations from the cabasa give you leverage to sustain the rolls you have started for longer.
Also, percussionists have found ways to create special beats with the cabasa. This makes the accessory an important tool for percussionists who are interested in recording and developing their music.
16) Cajon castanets
The Cajon castanets function like the traditional castanets, but this time, they have been combined with the Cajon to create good music. The castanets for Cajons are attached to the surface of the musical instrument.
When you have a castanet on your Cajon, it is easier to perform rolls with the castanet and combine the sounds with your traditional music. The castanets are also percussion instruments that have become very popular. Many percussionists who are interested in playing the traditional Irish or Peruvian tunes will find the castanets a good match for their Cajon.
After securing your castanet to the Cajon, it is ready for the performance. You can include the castanet in your ensemble by tapping in a pattern to match the rhythm of your music. The castanet can also be used to introduce new twists to make the music sound more appealing.
17) Hand drumming tape
Playing the Cajon requires rapid movements of your hand and wrists. This can be quite a bother because your wrists and other joints go through multiple motions in rapid succession. This is why percussionists use a hand drumming tape.
The tape is made from tough binding cotton which can reduce the impact of the motions you need to perform with your hands while playing the Cajon. The hand drumming tape is preferred by percussionists who may feel the gloves, which can also be worn, are too intrusive. The use of tapes helps to protect your wrist and joints without covering the fingers or palms.
This means a large part of your hand is exposed and free to be used while beating the Cajon. To use the hand drumming tape, you will need to tie a knot around your wrist and roll the tape over areas of your hand that feel sore due to frequent or long Cajon sessions.
18) Cajon flap
The Cajon flaps were created as innovative replacements for the traditional castanets. They are made from plastic with some metal parts. When attached to a Cajon and used during a performance, the Cajon flaps produce a similar sound just like the traditional castanet.
However, the Cajon flaps are quite versatile. They can be set to a higher or lower sensitivity to determine the pitch they produce when tapped. After securing the flap to a Cajon, all you need to do is tap on the flap while playing your beats.
The sensitive response that is achieved with the Cajon flap makes it easy to use during a performance. Once you have set the sensitivity range, you can depend on the flap to produce the exact sounds needed whenever you tap it during play. The Cajon flap can also be positioned on any part of the musical instrument. This means you are not limited to the parts of your Cajon where it can be fixed and easily reached.
19) Base plates for Cajon
The base plates are used by percussionists who want to increase the intensity of their bass sounds. When base plates are fixed on the Cajon, it can transform the sounds produced to match the bass drum. With the base plates, you can create unique bass drum rolls to blend in your music.
The base plates give you a chance to create something entirely different from the musical instrument. It is most helpful to percussionists who would instead explore options to become more flexible without giving up their Cajon.
With the base plates, you will be able to apply your expertise with the booster foot pedals to achieve the combined sounds you need. Percussionists have also found ways to use the effects achievable with a base plate to diversify their music.
20) Foot tambourine/ foot shaker
Foot tambourines are a common feature during shows organized by percussionists. The foot tambourines have been in existence for a long time; it is not surprising they have been combined with acoustic musical instruments such as the Cajon.
It has become one of the popular accessories preferred by percussionists who play the Cajon. They are worn around the ankles and shaken in rhythm with the beats played by the percussionist on a Cajon.
The foot tambourines are simple accessories, and easy to use, the high pitch sounds they create when shaken complement the subtle beats of the Cajon. Foot tambourines have also been used by percussionists to explore other ways of diversifying their music with the Cajon.
The excitement created by foot tambourines is hard to miss. They can be used by percussionists for studio recordings or when they feel like having fun with friends during jamming sessions.
21) Cajon jingles
The Cajon jingles are special accessories that can be used to diversify the sounds produced during a musical performance. The Cajon jingles have features that can be modified to match the tone you want to achieve while playing the Cajon.
It is quite a small accessory when attached to the Cajon; the jingle occupies only a small space, leaving more areas for the beats. It works by creating a vibration which resonates through the sound hole on the Cajon.
To achieve a different beat, the percussionist beats the areas around the jingle in rhythm with the music. Jingles can be fixed and removed when necessary, offering versatility many percussionists appreciate.
22) Side mount/plate
The side mounts were creatively designed to hold and support other accessories you may need to use while playing the Cajon. For example, if you needed to play your cymbals by striking them with a drumstick or your hands, you can use a side mount for this purpose. It will hold your cymbals at a convenient height and position so you can easily reach out and strike it while playing your Cajon.
Side mounts have proven to be very helpful. They have versatile features which can be used to hold different types of Cajon accessories. Side mounts for the Cajon can also be used to hold your flaps or the mic processor.
23) Cajon spinner
Cajon spinners are made from wood or other sturdy materials; they are platforms that can spin 360 degrees firmly placed on the Cajon. The Cajon spinners were invented as a tool to make it easy for percussionists to change the sides quickly, without losing their beat.
Another creative use of the Cajon spinners is when percussionists are performing and need to play other musical instruments. With the help of a Cajon spinner, it is easy to make a quick swirl to reach a different instrument after they have finished using the Cajon during the performance.
Cajon spinners have become very popular because they add an exciting feeling to the entire performance. The spinners should be firmly secured at all times to ensure a smooth flow of music.
24) Cajon port
The Cajon port is the accessory responsible for the deep bass sounds you hear; it is fitted in the sound hole. The port is mainly leveraged by expert Cajon percussionists to play overtones on all types of Cajones.
The ports can be fitted in a wide range of Cajones that have been made according to the average standards. You can start using ports at any stage of your training with the Cajon. They help to improve the sounds which can also be very encouraging for beginners. The ports have also been discovered to lower the degree of resonance created when the Cajon is played. This means the sound is clearer and more appealing.
Many models of the Cajon ports also feature provisions which can hold other accessories such as the mic processor and recorders while you practice your techniques.
25) Cajon sound control pillow
The Cajon sound control pillows are a must-have accessory for every percussionist who wants to improve the sound of their Cajon. The pillows function by lowering the resonance from the Cajon and improving the bass sounds.
Without a sound control pillow, the bass sounds produced from your Cajon will become distorted because of the resonance. Using the sound control pillow makes a lot of difference in sound quality. The sound control pillow is placed inside the Cajon, through the port. You can also use it as a platform for your mic processor if you want to ensure all your sounds are properly captured.
Choosing the Best Cajon Parts
Percussion instruments such as the Cajon are capable of producing a wide range of sounds. This is why you can find so many accessories that can help you modify the output from this musical instrument. Making a choice among these accessories means you have decided on a choice of music you want to focus on, with this approach, it is easier to identify and test the different percussion accessories.
For people who play different types of songs, it is possible to have complementary accessories that can be used when needed. For example, you may need the tambourines for a particular performance and the cymbals for the next song. Thankfully, the gig bags and Cajon cases you can find have enough space to carry these accessories.
Considering that many of the Cajon accessories have been developed to enhance the sounds and diversify your music, it is a great idea to read about the accessories to know exactly how they can influence your music.