US
Percussion

Meinl Percussion HCAJ1AWA Headliner Series Stained American White Ash String Cajon

  • Internal strings give an adjustable snare effect
  • American White Ash frontplate, medium size
  • Two screws and allen wrench to adjust the strings
  • Balanced sound, low and mid emphasis
  • 20.47 x 14.17 x 14.17 inches, 5.6 kg
  • Ambidextrous, 2 year warranty

Last refreshed Oct 2, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A medium string cajon with an adjustable snare rattle and an American White Ash playing surface, for unplugged gigs and flamenco or world music. The listing contradicts itself on whether any items are included.

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ASIN: B00275G7BCModel: HCAJ1AWACategory: Cajons

Overview

Not a plain box drum, this Meinl Headliner cajon has an internal system of strings running from top to bottom of the playing surface. They give a sensitive snare-like rattle that is adjusted with two screws. The frontplate is American White Ash, and the body is listed as modern composite.

The reason to buy is a rattle you can tune plus a durable playing surface with a full bass spectrum. The limit is that the material fields disagree and the included components field contradicts the description.

Who it's for

Flamenco and world music players, and anyone covering a rhythm section without a drum set, will use the adjustable strings. A buyer who wants no rattle, or an exact material, should check other models.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Adjustable internal snare strings
  • American White Ash playing surface
  • Balanced sound with strong low end
  • Two year warranty
Cons
  • Material fields disagree
  • Included items listed inconsistently
  • Strings need occasional adjustment
  • Stand not applicable

Performance notes

Strings stretched inside the drum vibrate to produce the snare effect, and tightening or loosening the two screws at the bottom changes the rattle. A deep, boomy ash frontplate supports the bass. The listing says it responds to soft finger playing.

Specifications

BrandPercussion
ModelHCAJ1AWA
Dimensions & fit
Hand orientationAmbidextrous
Dimensions20.47 x 14.17 x 14.17 inches
Weight5.6 kg
Construction & materials
Body MaterialModern composite
MaterialAmerican White Ash, modern composite
Included components
Included ComponentsAllen wrench per description
Warranty & support
Warranty Description2 years against defects
Other details
Item Type NameString cajon, medium
Sound ProfileBalanced, emphasis on low and mid
Snare effectInternal strings, adjustable by two screws

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Frequently asked questions

What is in the Meinl Headliner cajon box?

The included components field says not included, while the description says an allen wrench is provided for the string screws.

Does the Meinl Headliner cajon have a snare?

Yes. Internal strings give a snare effect, adjusted with two screws at the bottom.

Is the Meinl Headliner cajon left or right handed?

Neither. It is listed as ambidextrous.

What is the warranty?

Meinl replaces products with defects in material or workmanship for two years.