It would be difficult and somewhat unnecessary to
innovate something that does one thing, and does it well. It would have been enough that there are dozens of sound variations, but there's been one stand-out innovation. LP introduced the Rock Ridge, a plastic 'lip' riveted onto some of their models to prevent/delay beating-up the cowbell's edge. Smart, and truly useful, not a gimmick!
I'm a Rhythm Tech endorser, and have most of their tambourines, shakers, and cowbells at my disposal. But on the 2018 tour, I'm bringing an LP cowbell with Rock Ridge and expect it to last for at least 76 performances!
I love my Rhythm Tech gear, but LP did them one better on that.
Bermuda