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The McNeela 16" Deep-Rim Classic Performance Bodhrán Reviews

5 Rating 65 Reviews
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The Classic 16” Deep Rim Performance Bodhrán
“The quality and craftsmanship is second to none, it has a super deep sound which is easily controlled.” - Stephen W.
The McNeela 16” Deep-Rim Classic Performance Bodhrán is built for musicians who want their drum to sing with depth, clarity, and session-ready power. Featuring our signature 6” deep rim and 8-point hand tuning system, it offers everything you need to master rhythm and hold your own in any Irish trad setting. Designed for slightly more advanced players, or beginners ready to step into serious tone, this drum bridges the gap between affordable access and authentic performance. The hand-selected goat skin head is taped for warmth and control, while the rim’s added depth gives your tone a real presence that cuts through the room. Comfort matters, too. With an arm cut-out and removable T-bar, you can adjust your grip for long sessions and fine-tune your playing position. This is a bodhrán you’ll grow into, not out of. Special Offer! Order today and your bodhrán arrives fully loaded and ready to play, with a free beater, a padded gig bag with pocket for easy travel, and 8 free online lessons with Rónán Ó Snodaigh to help you build real session‑ready rhythm. Bonus: You’ll also get free priority shipping worldwide, plus a 30‑day no-hassle returns and 1‑year guarantee for complete peace of mind. Watch: See the McNeela Deep-Rim Bodhrán in action and hear the lush tone for yourself.

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Reviewed by 120+ Customers!
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Reviewed by 120+ Customers!
Listen to the Sound of the Deep-Rim Bodhrán
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|  Rated 4.9/5 By Our Happy Customers!
Product Highlights
Built for the Beat
The deep 6-inch rim and pre-taped, hand-selected goat skin give this bodhrán its signature lush tone. You’ll get a warm, resonant bass that cuts through at sessions without ever sounding harsh or boomy. Whether you’re playing softly or building up the rhythm, the tone stays responsive, rich, and full of life.
“Great quality. Great sound. I've played in several jams and had lots of comments on the sound and the beauty of the drum.” - Sue H.

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Comfort That Keeps You Playing
An ergonomic arm cut-out and removable T-bar allow you to find and keep your most comfortable grip, even during extended sessions. The drum is balanced and comfortable to hold, so you can focus on rhythm without strain.
“Very nice instrument, very good sound and modulation; I'm very satisfied.” -
Benelli G.

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Fast, Intuitive Tuning
No tools, no delays, just reach and turn. The 8-point hand tuning system lets you adjust quickly to changes in room temperature or tune to suit different playing environments. Perfect for gig life, or sessions where speed matters.
“This Bodhran is just perfect for me to use out on gigs. Easy to adjust with the new type of adjusters. Oh yes, sounds great.” -
Rich H.

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Made to Grow With You
Whether you're just starting out or stepping into more sessions, this drum won't hold you back. It has the tone quality, control, and build to support your musical growth for years. Many players upgrade to this bodhrán when they outgrow basic models, and never look back.
Hand-Selected Skin for True Tone
Each goat skin is carefully chosen for responsiveness and sustain. No two are identical, which gives your bodhrán a unique voice and feel. Combined with the pre-taping, you get better tone control, fewer overtones, and a more musical response.
Fully Equipped and Ready to Play
Your bodhrán comes with a padded gig bag for protection, and a bulbous beater that delivers bounce and control. The bag includes a pocket for tippers, so you’re covered for travel, sessions, or storage. Everything you need to start playing is included in the box.
Looks as Good as It Sounds
The finish on this drum is clean, classic, and made to impress. With its deep rim and quality construction, it has a commanding presence in the room and lets people know you're serious about your sound.
Think this is the right bodhrán for you?
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KEY FEATURES OF DEEP-RIM BODHRÁN
KEY FEATURES
Deep 6” rim for added bass and resonance 8-point tuning system with no tools required Pre-taped, hand-selected goat skin head Ergonomic cut-out and removable T-bar
Includes Rónán Ó Snodaigh’s 8-lesson course Built for session tone and all-night playability Praised by intermediate and advanced learners Comes with free gig bag and beater
Limited Time Offer
Bonus Beginner Bodhrán Lessons FREE!
Buy this 16” deep-rim performance bodhran and get instant access to 8 expert-led beginner lessons with Rónán Ó Snodaigh, the legendary frontman of Irish trad-fusion powerhouse Kíla and one of the world’s greatest living bodhrán players Start playing real Irish rhythms from day one, so you can enjoy your favourite jigs, reels, and more. Learn the essentials: how to hold, tune, and care for your bodhrán. And sound good doing it! Discover secret tips for better tone, tighter groove, and confident playing in any session or setting. Let Rónán’s warm, engaging teaching spark your rhythm and fuel your love for the music.These lessons don’t just teach the basics of technique. They’ll light a fire under your playing and have you sounding session-ready fast. It’s your perfect first step into the world of Irish traditional music.
Built with Musicians in Mind
When we say “designed by musicians, for musicians”, we mean it. We spend years developing our instruments, working with other music professionals and instructors to gather insight and feedback the whole way.  
Every improvement on this bodhrán has been guided by that process, and I’m incredibly proud of the results! It’s specially designed for players like you to reach your goals and play more of the music you love. Plus, each one is carefully set up here in the workshop before it’s shipped to you, and our team is here for any questions you have. The McNeela Mission We believe in the power of music for people, communities, and tradition. That’s why we’re so committed to making affordable quality instruments available to anyone who wants to bring a little more of it into the world!
The McNeela Guarantee
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Before our products ever reach your hands, we meticulously test them for durability and craftsmanship, to make sure you receive nothing short of excellence. This commitment to quality is why we proudly offer a 30-day try-at-home guarantee. It allows you to experience firsthand the exceptional standard we uphold. Should you find that our product doesn't meet your expectations within 30 days, returning it is hassle-free. Plus, our dedicated aftercare service is always available to assist you with any questions or needs. Please visit our Returns Policy page for product-specific warranties.
The McNeela Guarantee
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Don't Miss Out On the 16" McNeela Deep-Rim Performance Bodhrán
Join the countless musicians who have discovered the exceptional quality of the McNeela 16” Classic Performance Bodhrán. Built for trad players who want rich tone, comfortable play, and fast, session-ready tuning.
Hand-selected, taped goat skin Fast, no-tools tuning system Authentic, rich Irish tone Free Worldwide Priority Shipping
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Phone:

18322432

Location:

Unit 137 Baldoyle Industrial Estate, Baldoyle,
Unit 137 Baldoyle Industrial Estate, Baldoyle
Dublin
D13 X958

I’ve been playing the bodhran for a few years now, and this is my first new drum since I started! The hand tuners are incredibly practical considering the amount of times I’ve lost my Allen key on stage from my other brand of drum haha.
2 Helpful Report
Posted 3 years ago
Those hand tuners on the bodhrán are a game changer, Kimberley. Thanks for the great review. Don't forget to access your free bodhrán lessons with Rónán Ó Snodaigh.
Posted 3 years ago
This McNella 16" bodhran was exactly what I've been waiting for, Not only is the drum tuneable but it gives a really good deep sound which I favour. delivery was swift and the item was well packaged. Many thanks for your after service which I need on a couple of occasions.
Helpful Report
Posted 3 years ago
The Secret Magic of the Bodhran This is a really great product. Also the included lessons are invaluable. If you like the sound of the Bodhran, you need to watch these videos to see how to make it talk. Think Bear McCready and the Outlander soundtrack. That’s the sound you can get from it. Like any instrument, regular practice and patience is also essential.
2 Helpful Report
Posted 3 years ago
Arrived in NJ,USA in prefect condition. Lovely instrument and great experience with McNeela. Glad to be able to support a store from back home and look forward to future purchases. Slán mo cara
1 Helpful Report
Posted 4 years ago
Love it Great sound. Very responsive and makes so many more subtle notes and tones than my first one. The timing pegs give loads more options and the deep boom of it is lovely. I'll probably move the cross bar closer to the skin as the space is a bit big for me, other that it's grand.
1 Helpful Report
Posted 4 years ago
Love My McNeela 16" Bodhran! I recently purchased a McNeela 16" Deep-Rim Classic Performance Bodhran as a "keep my sanity during COVID" project. It survived the Atlantic crossing to Canada and I am thoroughly enjoying learning to play the instrument. No longer will I have to drum away with one hand on my emergency break handle while listening to my Celtic music in the car! I have learned from experience the critical role that a high quality instrument plays for any beginner. My McNeela bodhran has been a delight to play and I would highly recommend it and the support provided by McNeela Instruments! Darryl, Ottawa, Canada S
1 Helpful Report
Posted 5 years ago
Instrument is fantastic - shipping was a fail. Love the bodhran I purchased. It was shipped using USPS in America. This was a mistake. It was very roughly handled and was left in the rain on my front step. I have covered porch but the postal employee couldn't be bothered to put in 12 inches further on the porch to keep it dry. Please consider NOT utilizing USPS if it is up to you. I'd pay more next time just to avoid the disappointment at having received a beautiful instrument damaged in transit by careless shipping.
1 Helpful Report
Posted 5 years ago
Top Class. Very well made with no nonsense and sounds great
Helpful Report
Posted 5 years ago