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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

The quality of this instrument impressed me greatly. Every surface is silky smooth. The knob-style tuners enable quick tweaks as needed. The sound could not be better, especially the deep, low-throated bass. This is all the bodhran anyone would ever need. Highly recommended.
Helpful Report
Posted 5 years ago
Pleasure to deal with. Beautiful Bodhran.. Skin has lovely tones and the whole drum is of the highest quality. Tipper is perfect too. So pleased I chose this from Paraic.
Helpful Report
Posted 5 years ago
Well, what can I say what a drum - I love it . Top quality , great tuning system. Played some jigs and reels etc with my son. He loves the various tunes I can play on it . I am sure it will turn a few heads at the next performance we do at the session in Thurso , and others besides . Once again thank you Peter
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Posted 6 years ago
No complaints I love it practice everyday even in bed before sleeping
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Posted 6 years ago
I just returned from playing this wonderful drum at our local session. It’s responsive and has a fantastic range of tone. I’m extremely happy with the sound, the feel, and the craftsmanship. Thank you so much!
Helpful Report
Posted 7 years ago
I purchased the 16" tunable bodhran from Mcneela recently. What a nice instrument it is. I am having SOOOO much fun playing it! Nice quality craftsmanship; beautiful tones; the skin is very well treated, very soft and easy to play. One thing bout this drum that I love is that if I am in a larger session, I can get ALOT of volume from it with ease. In a smaller session though it is just as well to get nice tones without being to loud at all. Just happy with this drum!
Helpful Report
Posted 7 years ago
Entrega rápida, instrumento magnífico aunque no tengo mucha experiencia lo aplico al folk gallego y al irlandés y obtengo resultados satisfactorios tanto a nivel de personal como social tocando en sesiones con.mas músicos en lugo.mi valoración de muy positiva de.mcneela.gracias por este instrumento
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Posted 7 years ago
Great people to deal with, Product well made and good value. Thank you.
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Posted 7 years ago