More Than a Product—It’s a Process
The T-Top Cajon isn’t mass-produced in a distant factory. It’s made by hand—by a drummer, for drummers. Every unit begins as a raw piece of wood and evolves into a finely tuned, performance-ready instrument.
But what goes into building one of South Africa’s most loved custom cajon? In this blog, we pull back the curtain and share the story behind the build.
Step 1: Selecting the Perfect Materials
Every T-Top begins with carefully chosen materials. Andries Visser, founder of AV Box Cajons, believes tone starts at the source. That’s why every shell and top veneer is selected with intention.
Our top veneers—Mahogany, Walnut, Cherry, Rosewood, and White Oak—are chosen not only for their visual beauty but also for their perceived tonal personalities. Each adds a subtle voice to your playing and helps personalize the look and feel of your T-Top.
Step 2: Crafting for Comfort & Clarity
Unlike traditional cajons, the T-Top is not meant to be sat on. It’s designed for lap playing—reducing back strain and encouraging natural posture. That design requires a unique approach to its build.
Each shell is cut, sanded, and glued with meticulous care. Then comes the custom shaping of the ergonomic T-top design—engineered to rest comfortably on the player’s legs while delivering even response across its surface.
It’s functional design meets playability.
Step 3: Adding the Signature Touches
The T-Top wouldn’t be complete without its trademark elements:
- The Boxing Glove Logo – Laser-engraved as a mark of authenticity and craft.
- The Built-in Mic Pickup – Optional, but preferred by performers and recording artists.
- Premium Sprayed Finish – Smooth to the touch, visually rich, and long-lasting.
Each drum is then rigorously play-tested and only released once it passes a high-performance standard. If it’s not good enough for Andries to gig with, it’s not going out the door.
Built with You in Mind
The T-Top is more than wood and glue. It’s a product of passion, mentorship, and a desire to create instruments that musicians can grow with.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a touring professional, we want you to feel the heart and soul behind every beat.
That’s what makes the T-Top different—and that’s what AV Box Cajons stands for.
Order a Drum That’s Built to Groove
Shop the T-Top Cajon → https://avboxcajons.co.za/shop/t-top-cajon
Choose Your Veneer + Add a Bag or Mic
Join the AV Box Cajons Family
Coming Soon: Sling Top Cajon
We’ve taken our craftsmanship even further with the upcoming Sling Top Cajon, designed for standing, strappable playing on the move. Stay tuned for its release.
