Dumbeks and Darbukas

Dumbeks (sometimes spelled doumbek) and darbukas are essentially different names for the same goblet-shaped Middle Eastern drum. They are made from a variety of materials, including copper, aluminum, ceramic and vinyl.

Among the metal drums, aluminum dumbeks are usually the...

Dumbeks (sometimes spelled doumbek) and darbukas are essentially different names for the same goblet-shaped Middle Eastern drum. They are made from a variety of materials, including copper, aluminum, ceramic and vinyl.

Among the metal drums, aluminum dumbeks are usually the lightest while copper are slightly heavier. Copper dumbeks typically produce a warmer, richer, and more resonant sound compared to aluminum dumbeks. Aluminum dumbeks, on the other hand, tend to have a brighter and crisper sound.

Vinyl drums are lightweight, durable and affordable. They may lack some of the depth and warmth of other materials, but they are easy to maintain and great for use when traveling.

Ceramic dumbeks are the heaviest and most easily breakable. But they are usually beautifully decorated and have an organic, earthy warm tone not found in other materials.