A Beginner's Guide to Wood Types, Number of Keys, and EQ Models
The kalimba, also known as the thumb piano, has become one of the most popular beginner-friendly musical instruments thanks to its soothing sound, compact size, and ease of learning. However, with so many options available, many first-time buyers wonder:
- What is the best kalimba for beginners?
- Should I choose a 17-key, a 21-key kalimba or more?
- Does the type of wood affect the sound?
- Do I need a kalimba with a built-in EQ or pickup?
This guide explains the key differences so you can choose the right kalimba for your playing style and budget.
1. Choose the Right Number of Keys
The number of keys determines the range of notes your kalimba can play.
17-Key Kalimba (Best for Most Beginners)
The 17-key kalimba is the most common and widely recommended model. It offers enough notes to play thousands of popular songs while remaining easy to learn.
Choose a 17-key kalimba if you:
- Are a complete beginner
- Want the largest selection of tutorials and sheet music
- Prefer a lightweight and portable instrument
21-Key Kalimba
A 21-key kalimba extends the note range, with the objective of allowing you to play more advanced arrangements without changing octaves as often.
Having said that, in the real world this is hardly very useful. This is because the notes extensions are on the lower range, meaning you’re adding 4 keys below the middle C (the lowest key/pitch in the 17-key kalimba). If you’ve played the kalimba, you’ll notice that the sound of the middle C is already hardly audible, and this is even worse with the 4 added keys which are B, A, G and F. The small body of the kalimba just could not bring out the lower frequencies of these keys. Given a choice, most players would prefer 4 higher keys to be added, but the construction of the kalimba makes it impractical.
Choose a 21-key model if you really want to play songs that reaches out to these lower key range.
For most new players, a 17-key kalimba provides the best balance between simplicity and versatility.
2. Does the Wood Affect the Sound?
Yes. The body material has a noticeable impact on tone, resonance, and appeal.
Mahogany
Mahogany produces a bright, balanced sound with rich mid-tones. It is the most popular model produced by manufacturers, likely because the wood is readily available at a reasonable price point, and that it performs well across many musical styles.
Koa
Koa wood is prized for its warm, deep tone and attractive grain patterns. It often offers greater resonance and projection, making it a favorite among experienced players.
Walnut
Walnut produces an even more deeper, warmer sound with a smooth, mellow character. The resonance seems to be lesser compared to Koa, likely due to the “darker” nature of the wood.
Maple
In our test, Maple produces the brightest tone with an impressive resonance. However, this does not necessarily mean it is the best material. Many walk-in customers who tested the Maple Kalimba, while being impressed with its sound, do not all like the “brighter tone”.
Acrylic
Acrylic kalimbas stand out for their transparent, modern appearance. They produce a bright, bell-like tone but generally have almost no resonance at all. In our opinion, the Acrylic kalimba is more of a display piece, a beautiful gift, rather than a practical instrument.
If sound quality is your top priority, a solid wood kalimba is usually the better choice.
3. Should You Buy a Laminate or Solid Body Kalimba?
Another factor to consider is the instrument’s construction.
- Laminate body kalimbas produce a thinner sound with a natural resonance and are ideal for beginners and those with a tight budget.
- Solid body kalimbas offer a richer tone with longer sustain and are often preferred for recording and performance.
The reality is…Laminate kalimbas are actually harder to come by these days because many manufacturers are offering “solid wood” kalimbas seemingly at price points very close to the laminates. But we tested many of these models and are disappointed with these so-called affordable solid wood kalimbas. If the sale price is too good to be true, it is often the case where some corners have been cut.
A quick way to check the quality is the weight. A good solid wood kalimba (much like a good solid wood furniture) will definitely weigh much more than the laminate alternative.
4. Do You Need a Kalimba with EQ?
Some kalimbas include a built-in EQ (equalizer) and pickup, allowing the instrument to be connected directly to an amplifier, speaker, or recording interface.
An EQ model is worth considering if you:
- Perform live often
- Record music regularly
- Want to connect to an amplifier for better sound projection
If you’re learning purely for enjoyment at home, a standard acoustic kalimba is usually sufficient. Do note that it is extremely challenging, if not impossible to retrofit a pickup if it doesn’t come with one. Factory fitted ones are the best option given they don’t cost a lot more.
5. Build Quality Matters
Regardless of the model you choose, look for:
- Smooth, rounded edges
- Well-finished solid wood
- Evenly spaced quality metal tines
- Comfortable hand positioning
- Stable tuning
A well-built kalimba is easier to play and sound more pleasing. We tested a few models here:
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right kalimba doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on three key decisions:
- Number of keys: A 17-key kalimba is ideal for most beginners and intermediate players. If you need the lower note range, take the 21-key.
- Material: Mahogany, koa, and walnut each produce distinctive tones. Given the price points of kalimbas, you don’t have to pick only one.
- EQ option: A built-in EQ is useful for performers and recording musicians but isn’t essential for casual home practice.
Which Kalimba Should Beginners Buy?
If you have no clue, or you’re buying it as a gift, you won’t go wrong with a 17-key solid wood Mahogany. If you really want to be sure, the best way to pick a kalimba is to try them out at your local stores. There’s always the case of different strokes for different folks.