If you have any questions about what a professional tabla should look and sound like, do yourself a favor, write your questions to: <ofiol@earhlink.net> at Surila.com. They upgraded three of my tablas and reheaded a friend's. I haven't heard any tablas sound better. Hint: 99.9 percent of the tablas sold outside of India to overseas buyers are unfinished and untuned. Even the so-called "professional-grade".
That would depend on the condition of the puri, straps, kundal, etc., if they also need to be replaced. (There is a fine balance between these parts and any defects will undermine the tabla's total performance and longevity).
Please write to 'Orlando' at ofiol@earthlink.net for further information. They are highly knowledgeable and helpful
