The Meinl Artist Series Taku Hirano Signature Hand-Bale has a uniquely crafted retaining rim. One half is traditionally shaped, and the other half is recessed below the drum head. This opens the timbale to bongo-style hand techniques that easily produce an unmistakably crisp timbale sound. Stick techniques are possible on the traditionally rimmed portion of the drum. A special stand (584931) is available Taku Hirano wanted to add timbale accents and fills while playing on congas and multi-percussion setups, without needing sticks. Meinl's Artist Series Signature Hand-Bale now makes that possible. As Taku himself put it, "The instrument sounds great using bongo technique; so that if you use one- or two finger hits on the edge with the same force that you would play mounted bongos, you are able to effectively recreate the quintessential timbale rim stroke. No sticks? No problem! Cracking timbale fills at your fingertips . . ."