Kalimbas
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About Kalimbas
The humble kalimba has made quantum leaps into the limelight of pop music over the past 50 years or so — from Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Evil” to John Mayer’s “Assassin.” But it may surprise some readers to learn that this plucked idiophone (or lamellophone) has a history that stems back some 3,000 years to central-western and southern regions of Africa. The kalimba’s metal tines and wood soundboard produce such a soothing tone when plucked with the thumbs that we at Sweetwater can’t help but buzz with excitement for this folksy finger instrument. Eager to learn where a kalimba can take your music? Read on for more!
Shop for Kalimbas by Brand
Are you in the market for a particular brand of kalimba/thumb piano? You’ll find all your favorites at Sweetwater. Use the filters on this page to quickly narrow down searches to Meinl Sonic Energy kalimbas, Sela kalimbas, Luna kalimbas, and kalimbas from percussion giants Remo and Schlagwerk.
Kalimba FAQs
Kalimba vs. mbira: what’s the difference?
The Hugh Tracey–popularized kalimba of the 20th century is a modernization of the classic African mbira. Though the two look quite similar, there exist some distinct differences between the instruments.
- * The modern kalimba often employs a single row of keys. The traditional mbira uses two rows for bass and treble notes.
- * The kalimba is most often tuned to Western scales, such as the major diatonic and major pentatonic. The mbira may employ hundreds of alternate tunings, including historic tunings with unequal temperament.
- * The kalimba relies on a resonating chamber to create its characteristic buzzy tone. The traditional mbira has physical buzzers installed on its soundboard.
How do you play the kalimba?
As a name like “thumb piano” might imply, the kalimba is designed to be held in the hands or rested on a tabletop while tines are struck with the thumbs and fingers. Common variations are the 17-key kalimba and the 8-key kalimba, which may be tuned diatonically (tuned to the scale of a key) or chromatically (all notes on a piano). Longer tines toward the center of the instrument produce bass notes and can be accessed with both hands. Shorter tines/higher tones fan out toward the sides of the instrument and alternate left to right to allow harmonies.
How do you amplify a kalimba?
When it comes to capturing the delicate sound of a kalimba into a PA system or onto a recorded track, you’ve got two options: miking and amplifying. A quality ribbon mic or small-diaphragm condenser should have no trouble picking up the music box–like attack and blooming sustain of a kalimba in a quiet room. When it comes to playing live, performing is made worlds easier with an acoustic-electric kalimba. This special type of kalimba features an onboard piezoelectric pickup to transduce its acoustic energy into electric energy, which is then easy to output into an amp or PA. Aftermarket piezo pickups from KNA and DrumDial are also available.
Get Started with Your New Kalimba
Ready to purchase your first or next kalimba? Sweetwater makes it easy. If you don’t know where to begin, then reach out to our highly knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700. They’ll help you choose the right kalimba for you!
If you prefer to shop entirely online, then Sweetwater’s website has tools to narrow down your kalimba choices based on your desired specs, such as the brand, price range, chambering, and more. Select your preferred specs in our convenient product filter and explore your options!
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What are the most popular brands for Kalimbas on Sweetwater.com?
What are the most popular Kalimbas on Sweetwater.com?
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Meinl Percussion Solid Pickup Kalimba - 17-note, American Walnut
5 out of 5 stars 1 review
$149.99 -
Meinl Sonic Energy Sound Hole Kalimba - 17-Note - Acacia
5 out of 5 stars 2 reviews
$49.99 -
Meinl Sonic Energy Sound Hole Pickup Kalimba - 17-Note - Acacia
5 out of 5 stars 1 review
$79.99 -
Meinl Sonic Energy Solid Kalimba - 17-Note - Black Walnut
5 out of 5 stars 3 reviews
$89.99
Why shop Kalimbas at Sweetwater.com?
With a massive selection of Kalimbas, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Kalimbas, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.
