When Latin Percussion was founded in the 1960's, timbales were only heard in Latin music. Today, more than three decades later, all genres of music have embraced this versatile percussion instrument. LP's experience in building timbales has resulted in a distinctive, modern shell, that uses a ribbed design with both top and bottom edges turned in, to create a livelier, more cutting “cascara" (the sound produced when striking the side of the shell). All LP Tito Puente Timbales, Thunder Timbs, and Timbalitos are sold complete with a chrome plated, heavy duty, steel Timbale Stand. The stand has a die cast, geared tilter that locks in tight for either straight or tilted playing. It is height adjustable, and also has an anti-rattle sleeve. It comes complete with an adjustable cowbell holder made from welded steel and features LP's superior eye-bolt assembly. LP Timbale Shells are available in genuine stainless steel, solid brass, or bronze; each possessing its own distinct sound. The genuine stainless steel shells produce very bright and crisp, loud sounds; the solid brass shells produce warmer sounds; the bronze produces a superior and distinctive cutting cascara sound. LP Tito Puente Timbales are available in three combinations, 12"/13", 13"/14", and 14"/15" diameter sets. The 13" and 14" model was the first ever manufactured by LP, while today the 14" and 15" model is the most preferred. A heavy duty, fully height adjustable, tilting timbale stand, a cowbell bracket, a pair of timbale sticks, and a tuning wrench is included with every set of LP Tito Puente Timbales.