Thank you for the reply Skulmoski. I understand the benefits of the ones with heads, but why do they make them without heads? There must be an advantage to them too.
Ones without heads are easier to hold and move around and are good for mounting to foot percussion pedals. Also there is one less thing to break.
Tambourines can be quite loud, depending on the number of jingles and I know nickel is louder than brass.
Interesting. I think i've found one i like, but i was wondering if the mounting bracket can be removed or not (they also have a handheld version of the same model).
http://www.guitarcenter.com/Meinl-ABS-Super-Dry-Studio-Tambourine--Two-Rows-584924-i1510646.gc
As far as sound goes, the best sounding one I have ever heard is LP Cyclops with brass dimpled jingles. It practically sounds EQ'd. It's the opposite of harsh sounding. I know they make a mounted version but all I could find is this hand held one.
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/classroom-kids/lp-cyclops-tambourine/473487000000000