How to choose the best Kalimba for you

The kalimba can be a wonderful and unique musical instrument. Hundreds of people learn to play the kalimba for fun or relaxation, and it's easy to find one that's right for you. But how do you know which kalimba is best for you and your playing style?

Understanding the basics of kalimba

The kalimba is a type of lamellophone played by placing the fingers on suspended metal strips. Each slat is designated by a distinct character, and each character corresponds to a distinct sound. Once you've learned the characters and sounds, you can start learning to play melodies and tunes for your own enjoyment.

Choosing the right type of kalimba

The type of kalimba you need depends on your playing level and the types of music you're trying to play. Kalimbas are generally available in different sizes and configurations.

• Kalimbas at 17 notes - 17-note kalimbas are commonly used for melodies and songs. 17-note kalimbas have 17 slats, usually consisting of the notes D, E, F, G and A, sometimes with additional notes that can complement these basic notes and add a personal touch.
• 8-note kalimba - 8-note kalimbas are perfect for those who prefer a jazz or classical style. These kalimbas have 8 slats that can produce deeper accents. 8-note kalimbas are often smaller and can therefore be easier to handle for those new to playing.
• Two-octave kalimbas - For those who want a kalimba with several octaves, a two-octave kalimba is the best choice. These kalimbas are ideal for more complex melodies. These kalimbas are generally bigger and heavier, so they require more strength and coordination to play.

Materials and other considerations

Most kalimbas are made of stainless steel or bamboo, and are designed for easy set-up. Some kalimbas come with a good handle for easy transport and storage. It can be particularly useful to choose a kalimba that uses magnets, plug-ins or nops to achieve clearer sounds and help extend the life of the kalimba.

The kalimba can be an exciting and unique musical instrument that can be enjoyed by those just starting out or looking for a more advanced challenge. With the variety of kalimba types and sizes available on the market, it's easy to find the one that best suits your style and playing. For those looking for their first playing experience, a simple, affordable kalimba is an excellent starting point. For those looking for a more complex challenge, a second kalimba is the best choice. As you begin to learn how to play, try out several kalimbas to find the one that suits you best.

When trying out kalimbas, you need to make sure you feel comfortable and understand the characters and sounds associated with them. By doing a little research and trying out several models, you'll be able to find the kalimba model that suits you best. The kalimba can be a magical musical instrument that can be played for fun or relaxation, and can be enjoyed by all ages and levels.