Tongue drums have gained immense popularity among drummers thanks to their unique ability to create soothing melodies and promote relaxation – it’s great for those wanting a therapeutic musical experience!
In this article, we aim to help you find the perfect tongue drum. We’ll explore the top options available on the market now, highlighting their distinctive features and helping you make an informed decision.
So, let’s dive into the best tongue drums that money can buy!
In a hurry?
Here are our top three tongue drums:
| Tongue Drum by Gear4music, 5.5" | Compact size – ideal for transporting to venues and for your travels. | Check the current price |
| Meinl Sonic Energy Mini Steel Tongue Drum, C Major | Steel construction provides a calming, mellow tone. | Check the current price |
| Pearl Metal Spirit Tongue Drum G Major | Stunning blue fade finish looks as magical as it sounds. | Check the current price |
What is a tongue drum?
A tongue drum, also known as a hand or tank drum, is a percussion instrument that has roots in ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs, Africans, and Indonesians.
Originally made from wood, the modern version of the tongue drum is typically crafted from carefully selected steel but can also be made from aluminium. Sometimes, weights are added to alter the tuning of the drum. Belonging to the idiophone family, tongue drums are often tuned to pentatonic scales.
Tongue drums can be played with mallets or fingers, producing a melodic and bell-like sound. They have gained popularity as sound therapy instruments and are frequently used in meditation music. The soothing tones they produce make them an ideal choice for relaxation, mindfulness, and stress relief.
When choosing a tongue drum, consider factors such as the material it’s made of, the finish, and the tuning. Different materials, such as aluminium, mild steel, or stainless steel, can result in variations in sound and durability. Additionally, some tongue drums feature a textured finish that provides further control and precision to your playing.
The 11 best tongue drums
1. Tongue Drum by Gear4music, 5.5”
Tuning: Akebono (C, D, E,F, G,A, B, C)
Size: 5.5’’
Number of tongues: 6
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Compact size is ideal for transporting and travelling with
- Soothing resonance and clear tones with a fine-tuning
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Small design might not suit live performances
Up first is the Tongue Drum by Gear4music, 5.5″. This tongue drum is a top choice for anyone looking for relaxing, meditative sound therapy. Its precise tuning, compact size, and exceptional craftsmanship make it great for taking with you and playing whenever inspiration strikes.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, this tongue drum is suitable for all skill levels, whilst its resonant tones and portable design also make it perfect for both personal relaxation and professional performances. Better still, it comes with mallets and a convenient carry case.
2. Meinl Sonic Energy Mini Steel Tongue Drum, C Major
Tuning: C Major – C5, D5, E5, G5, A5, C6
Size: 5.5’’
Number of tongues: 6
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Portable and practical
- Calming, mellow tone
- Includes carry bag and soft mallets
Cons:
- Limited sounds available with only six tongues
The Meinl Sonic Energy Mini Steel Tongue Drum in C Major has a C major key and high-quality steel construction that produces a very relaxing, mellow sound. The compact size makes it ideal for musicians of all skill levels or someone wanting a portable, practical instrument.
Perfect for sound therapy, meditation, or musical performances, the Meinl Sonic Energy Mini Steel Tongue Drum brings elegant design and calming tones into an easy-to-use format.
3. Pearl Metal Spirit Tongue Drum G Major
Tuning: G major pentatonic
Size: 10’’
Number of tongues: 8
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Accurate and consistent tuning
- Robust hardened steel shell for exceptional durability
- Attractive Natural Blue Fade finish
Cons:
- High cost compared to competitive models
Gleaming with super high attention to detail, the Pearl Metal Spirit Tongue Drum in G Major is tuned in the G major pentatonic scale, which produces beautiful harmonies.
Meticulously crafted from hardened steel, this drum ensures durability and resilience, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor performances. Additionally, the laser-cut tongues promise long-lasting tuning stability that is extremely precise.
Mallets are included with the drum, making it a very convenient package if you want to get started right away.
4. Sela Melody Tongue Drum 6“ C Major
Tuning: C Major
Size: 6’’
Number of tongues: 8
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Stable playing experience thanks to rubber feet
- Complete package – includes carry bag and mallets
- C major scale is great for players of all abilities
Cons:
- Only available in one colour
The Sela Melody Tongue Drum 6″ C Major is a compact and convenient instrument that produces all the soothing, relaxing tones you’d expect from a tongue drum. Its C major key not only provides uplifting and warming tones, but it’s also ideal for beginners as it’s virtually impossible to play a wrong note!
Plus, the playing experience is stable and sturdy thanks to rubber feet mounted to the bottom and its six-inch diameter – this makes it a great travel accessory or ornament around the house.
Two wooden mallets with rubber heads and a drawstring carry bag are included with the Sela Melody Tongue Drum, allowing you to pack up the drum and take it with you.
5. LP Dharma 12″ Metta Drum
Tuning: Tanpura scale (G#3, B3, C#4, D#4, F#4, G#4, B4, C#5)
Size: 12’’
Number of tongues: 8
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Soothing and therapeutic in all scenarios
- Adjustable tuning with included magnets
- Includes rubber mallets
Cons:
- Only one tuning scale available
The LP Dharma 12″ Metta Drum boasts a carefully tuned Tanpura scale and sturdy steel construction, coupling together to produce mesmerising and immersive tones.
With its generous size and eight tongues, this drum offers a wide range of sonic opportunities suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians.
As a great therapeutic and calming tool, the LP Dharma Metta drum is an excellent choice for transporting you to a world of tranquillity. Plus, it looks the part too, courtesy of its Earth Gold finish.
6. Idiopan Domina 12” Tunable Steel Tongue Drum
Tuning: C Major Pentatonic Scale
Size: 12’’
Number of tongues: 8
Material: American Steel
Pros:
- Produces a beautiful tone with plenty of scope to create unique melodies
- Crafted in the USA to impeccably high standards
- Includes beaters, display ring, and cleaning cloth – ideal for performing musicians
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a bag for easy transportation
Fresh from the USA – the Idiopan Domina 12” Tunable Steel Tongue Drum in Burnt Orange stands out as one of the best tongue drums available.
Its C Major Pentatonic scale provides a harmonious foundation for musical exploration, while the use of high-quality American steel ensures durability and exceptional sound quality.
With its large 12’’ diameter size and eight tongues, this drum offers a wide range of musical possibilities suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians. What’s more, the tongue drum comes tuned to C Major in the pentatonic scale which allows you to produce a versatile and unique sound; different to most tongue drums on the market.
7. Aquadrum Pro 11
Tuning: Any
Size: 11’’
Number of tongues: 11
Material: Pressed Steel
Pros:
- Award-winning tuning system that allows for any key
- High-quality material with anti-rust coating
- 11 tongues provide a perfect foundation for multiple unique melodies
Cons:
- High cost compared to other competing tongue drums
The Aquadrum Pro 11 is great for those who want full freedom to explore new sounds. With 11 tongues and the ability to tune to any key, courtesy of its award-winning tuning system, you can experiment with various musical scales to create unique compositions. The ability to tune each tongue up to six semitones gives you even more creativity, allowing for versatile melodies and harmonies.
Crafted from pressed steel, this drum guarantees durability and delivers a rich and diverse sound. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, the Aquadrum Pro 11 is well-suited to all skill levels and is a top contender for live tongue drum performances. If that wasn’t enough, the Aquadrum is finished with a durable, anti-rust coating making it the perfect tongue drum for both indoor and outdoor use.
8. Tongue Drum by Gear4music, 14″
Tuning: Akebono (F, G, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C, D, E)
Size: 14’’
Number of tongues: 14
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Portable and durable for any event
- Includes mallets and heavy-duty carry bag
- Simple and relaxing to play straight out of the box
Cons:
- Only available in purple finish
The Tongue Drum by Gear4music, 14″ boasts a high-quality steel construction that guarantees a beautiful and resonant sound. Along with how great value for money it is, this puts it in a class of its own.
Measuring 14’’ in diameter and comprising 14 tongues, this tongue drum provides ample space for exploration, allowing you to express yourself and achieve the exact sound you want.
Not only is the Gear4music tongue drum portable, but it also comes with mallets and a heavy-duty carry case, meaning it’s ready to take along with you wherever you go.
9. Nino Percussion Mini Steel Tongue Drum
Tuning: C5, D5, E5, G5, A5, C6
Size: 5.5’’
Number of tongues: 6
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Pre-tuned scale is ideal for beginners
- Six tongues are the perfect foundation for learning basic rhythms and melodies
- Available in red and white finishes
Cons:
- Notes aren’t clearly displayed on each tongue
Nino Percussion have arguably one of the best tongue drums for juniors to learn the basic foundations of rhythm and melodies – the Mini Steel Tongue Drum. Finely crafted from steel, it ensures a resonant and harmonious sound, allowing you to create captivating melodies.
The pre-tuned scale of this drum eliminates the possibility of wrong notes, making it suitable for both beginners and as a great tool for the classroom. The compact 5.5-inch size of the Nino Percussion Mini Steel Tongue Drum also makes it highly portable, allowing you to bring your music with you wherever you go.
Included with the drum is a bag and a pair of soft mallets, giving you everything you need to start playing immediately. The bag protects the drum while on the move, and the soft mallets produce a gentle touch that brings out the best of its melodies.
10. Meinl Sonic Energy Pocket Steel Tongue Drum, Purple A Major
Tuning: A Major (A5, B5, C#6, E6, F#6, A6)
Size: 3’’
Number of tongues: 6
Material: Steel
Pros:
- Super compact size that will fit in your pocket
- Produces stunning tones with included rubber-head mallets
- Textured surface offers control over your playing experience
Cons:
- Small design may be uncomfortable to play
Now for something a bit more pocket-sized – the Meinl Sonic Energy Pocket Steel Tongue Drum in Purple A Major. The bottom line of this tongue drum is there’s nothing quite like it, the super compact 3’’ diameter fits right in your pocket, allowing you to get your fix of soothing, calming tones at a moment’s notice wherever you go.
Typically made from steel, the Meinl Sonic Energy Pocket Steel Tongue Drum is as durable as any other, and with a textured surface, your playing is controllable and precise. The unique tongue drum also comes with a wooden mallet with a rubber head.
11. Aquadrum Air9 Mystic
Tuning: A
Size: 11’’
Number of tongues: 9
Material: Pressed Steel
Pros:
- Noted tongues allow you to easily remember your creations
- Anti-rust coating will keep the tongue drum looking brand new
- Included tuning magnets keep your sound crisp and precise
Cons:
- Tuning option may be too advanced for beginner percussionists
Last, but certainly not least, the Aquadrum Air9 Mystic is an eye-grabbing tongue drum available on the market. Its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail set it apart from the rest. The carefully tuned notes, that can be tuned yourself with the included magnets, produce a harmonious and meditative sound, perfect for relaxation, meditation, and musical expression.
Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, allowing you to take your music wherever you go. Plus, the high-quality steel construction not only ensures durability but also provides a unique textured surface for a comfortable playing experience.
As I’m sure you’ll agree, the vibrant yellow finish is as captivating to look at as the tongue drum is to listen to. As mentioned previously, Aquadrum is a staple in the tongue drum industry.
Things to consider when buying a tongue drum
When buying a tongue drum, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right instrument for your needs. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. Intended use
Determine where you plan to use the drum. If you want a portable option for outdoor performances or travelling with, look for a lightweight and compact design. Additionally, if you want a tongue drum for relaxation at home, you can definitely save yourself some pennies by opting for a cheaper drum without the protective coating for the outdoors.
2. Materials
The choice of materials can greatly impact the sound and durability of the drum. Steel tongue drums are popular for their versatility and resonance. Consider the carbon content in the steel if possible as different levels of this can affect the tone.
3. Scale
The scale of a tongue drum refers to the arrangement of notes or tongues. Each scale produces a unique set of harmonies and melodies. Explore different scales such as the Celtic minor, Kurd, or Integral to find the one that resonates with you.
4. Size
The size of the tongue drum is another important consideration. Smaller drums are ideal for children or individuals with smaller hands as they are easier to hold and play. Larger drums can produce deeper and more resonant tones more suited to live performances.
5. Number of tongues
The number of notes or tongues on a tongue drum determines the range of tones it can produce. Consider how many notes you need for your musical purposes and choose a drum that aligns with your desired melodies and harmonies.
6. Finish
Being an instrument of tranquillity and relaxation, choosing the right finish that will relax and soothe you the most is essential. Most tongue drums also come with stunning aesthetics.
7. Tone
The tone of a tongue drum is influenced by its construction and materials. Higher-quality drums tend to have a clearer and more expressive tone. Listen to audio samples or watch videos to get an idea of the sound produced by different drums.
FAQs
How do I choose a tongue drum?
When choosing a tongue drum, consider factors like intended use, materials, scale, size, tone, and number of notes. Explore different options to find the drum that aligns with your musical preferences and needs.
What is the best size of tongue drum?
The best size of a tongue drum depends on various factors, including your hand size, portability needs, and desired tonal range. Smaller drums are easier to hold and play, while larger drums can produce deeper tones. Consider your specific requirements to determine the ideal size for you.
Is the steel tongue drum easy to play?
The steel tongue drum is designed to be easy to play. Its intuitive layout and, sometimes, marked tongues make it accessible for beginners. Because the drum is tuned to a particular scale, it’s easy for someone with no music theory knowledge to play in tune and not play a wrong note. With practice, you can create mesmerising melodies and rhythms.
Final thoughts
So, we’ve explored the world of tongue drums and how to choose the very best one for your musical journey. We hope that in our list of the best tongue drums, you’ve found one that suits you!
If you’re interested in exploring other percussion instruments why not check out our review of the best cajons? Or for a broader perspective, take a look at our guide to the different types of drums.
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