The MEINL HEAD-38 is a 6 3/4" True Skin natural bongo head made from hand-selected buffalo hide, designed to fit MEINL Free Ride bongos (macho side) including FWB190 and FWB200 models. It’s a direct, factory-spec replacement that restores authentic feel, quick response, and warm, traditional tone.

Key Features

• Genuine buffalo hide (True Skin): Classic warmth, projection, and durability for traditional bongo sound.

• Direct fit for MEINL Free Ride: Built for FWB190 / FWB200 macho (6 3/4")—no guessing on sizes.

• Stage & studio ready: Fast attack with musical sustain; sits well in acoustic and amplified mixes.

• Consistent quality: Hand-selected hides with MEINL’s QC for even thickness and tuning stability.

• Easy maintenance: Seats and tunes like your original MEINL head.

Compatibility (Fit Guide)

• Confirmed fit: MEINL FWB190, FWB200 (macho, 6 3/4").

• Series context: Free Ride bongos using a 6 3/4" macho head.

• Not sure? Measure the playing surface diameter of your macho head (across the crown). If it’s 6 3/4" (≈171 mm) and a Free Ride model, this is the one.

Specifications

• Product ID / SKU: HEAD-38

• Size: 6 3/4" (macho)

• Material: Hand-selected buffalo skin (True Skin)

• Intended Use: Replacement bongo head (Free Ride system)

• UPC: 840553054750

• Quantity: 1 piece

Installation Notes (Quick Tips)

• Back off lugs evenly, remove the old head, clean bearing edge & hoop.

• Seat the new head evenly; finger-tighten lugs in a star pattern.

• Bring up tension gradually, then let the head settle before final tuning.

• Avoid rapid humidity/temperature swings during first hours of playing.