Thomann TKP Guiro Beech

I've now got five guiros, including a large moulded plastic LP guiro and two brought back from Cuba. The Cuban ones sound great but they are the real deal, cut from gourds and very fragile (one is now more superglue than guiro). Also they are nearly all large guiros with a deep rasping sound - ok on a gig, especially with a big latin band - but not much use in more intimate surroundings.

This 'kids' guiro is light, very well-made, with deceptively shallow curved grooves. I took a bit of a chance buying it but being able to hear it before purchasing (excellent move, Thomann) convinced me. It sounds great at home - nice and high, crisp, clear sound that cuts through without being too loud - and I can see plenty of opportunities for it.

The only downside is the stick, which is appropriately woody and looks very 'bio', but which feels like it wouldn't stand up to much pressure from me (or a keen 7-yr old). Played with a bamboo or plastic chopstick, it's excellent.