I strive for nothing but perfect drums, for real master instruments. That is why my prices are what they are. But the world is not perfect nor are all the drums in the world. Drums can crack, oval, or sometimes the carving does not meet our expectations. Many times I get trade-ins or special deals and come across drums I call seconds. So because my regular pricing is based off perfect drums, I offer these drums at a discounted price. They are great way for a person that is not ready to buy a $600-800 djembe to get a good sounding drum at an affordable price. Allthough many drums can have minor repairs because of the nature of wood, some repairs are more serious and warrant major discount. Sometimes drums can oval in route from the shipment, from stacking, or oval in the curing process. Allthough it does not necessarily affect the quality of sound, it is less than perfect. And finally sometimes drums are nice drums but do not meet my standards. All these drums here will have one of these issues. BUT.... all drums will be built with the materials and workmanship that goes into my highest end drums. If any repairs are done they will be done professionally and the structural integrity of the drum will be sound.