This is a fun little instrument, I've used it in several recordings as well as playing it live.

Pros:
* it's compact.
* it's bit lighter than a full-size wooden cabasa, so it's easier to play more complicated rhythms.
* I like the foam-covered handle.  More comfortable than wood, easier to hang on to.
* For such a small thing, it's LOUD.

Cons:
* When I compared to a full-size wooden cabasa, the sound is a little thinner due to fewer beads rubbing less surface area and a smaller body (so less resonance).  That said, you may find the tone more appropriate to whatever you're doing.
* Be careful the top doesn't unscrew while you're playing.  I don't have this trouble, but one of my kids ran into this while playing.  It was simple to put back together, but obviously you don't want this in a performance.

Overall this is a decent instrument.
This is a fun little instrument, I've used it in several recordings as well as playing it live. Pros:
* it's compact. * it's bit lighter than a full-size wooden cabasa, so it's easier to play more complicated rhythms. * I like the foam-covered handle. More comfortable than wood, easier to hang on to. * For such a small thing, it's LOUD. Cons:
* When I compared to a full-size wooden cabasa, the sound is a little thinner due to fewer beads rubbing less surface area and a smaller body (so less resonance). That said, you may find the tone more appropriate to whatever you're doing. * Be careful the top doesn't unscrew while you're playing. I don't have this trouble, but one of my kids ran into this while playing. It was simple to put back together, but obviously you don't want this in a performance. Overall this is a decent instrument.