Latin Percussion LP255-S - TIMBALES TITO PUENTE SIGNATURE 12" & 13" - STEEL

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

Inseparable from Afro-Cuban music and salsa, timbales have become a cornerstone of the modern percussion set thanks to their crisp sound, immediate response, and versatility in both accompaniment and breaks. In the spirit of this tradition, these LP timbales focus on a simple, robust, and effective design centered on the essentials: responsive metal shells, classic tuning, and a stable stand to suit both group playing and mobile percussionist setups.

Offered in several diameter combinations, they allow you to choose a format consistent with your style and playing space: more compact and lively, or broader and more present. This is a "practical" positioning: a reliable instrument, easy to handle, with the essential accessories to get started quickly.

Who This Drum/Instrument Is For

These timbales are aimed at beginner to intermediate percussionists who want a serious instrument to work on fundamentals (cascara, abanico, open/closed golpes) and play in ensembles. They are also suitable for more advanced musicians seeking an efficient and portable set for rehearsals, teaching, or certain gigs without unnecessary complications.

Style-wise, they naturally fit salsa, son, Latin jazz, merengue, and Caribbean music, but also integrate well into pop and funk whenever sharp metallic accents and a rhythmic presence that cuts through the mix are desired. The included bell mount facilitates adding a bell (not included) to complete a classic Latin set.

Features and Innovations

The design emphasizes stability and ease of use. The double base stand provides reassuring support, especially useful when alternating between playing on heads, rim shots, and fast patterns on the shells. The traditional tuning offers a straightforward approach: adjust the tension to achieve the desired pitch and response, maintaining a familiar feel for anyone playing timbales "the old-fashioned way."

The instrument comes with essential accessories to get started: tuning key for tension adjustment, timbale sticks for proper attack, and bell mount to enrich the set. Note: bells and blocks not included, allowing freedom to choose your elements according to your playing style and tonal color.

Sound

The choice of stainless steel strongly influences the sound character: you get a bright attack, a brilliant tone, and projection that stands out easily within an ensemble. This metallic nature highlights articulations, helping to bring out timbale figures and dynamic variations even in dense orchestras.

The shell depth contributes to a quick and controlled response, with a rebound feel favorable to rolls. In practice, you can aim for tighter tuning for a dry, cutting sound or loosen slightly for more fullness while retaining the typical definition of timbales. Paired with a bell and possibly blocks (not included), they allow building a complete Latin set capable of everything from subtle grooves to very prominent calls.

Technical specifications

Category	timbales	Color	Grey
Type	timbales	Finishing	Chrome
Material	steel	Hardware	Chromed
Skin type	Synthetic	Diameter	12 "
Accessories included	Sticks, Stand, With attachment / Stand, Tuning key

Shell diameter

12 inches / 13 inches (LP255-S)

Shell depth

6.5 inches