Kalimbas, Shakers & Steel Tongue Drums: The Rest of the Afroton Restock
Updated: Oct 1
When the djembes landed back on our shelves, that was only half the story! The rest of our Afroton restock has been quietly filling out the percussion corner at Sun-Sounds in Sliema ever since. We now have kalimbas, steel tongue drums, güiros, and shakers—every one of them handmade! If you caught the djembe post, think of this as the sequel: everything else that arrived and where to find it in-store.
Kalimbas — The Thumb Piano Everyone's Rediscovering
A kalimba is about as forgiving as instruments get! Press a tine, get a note, and within an afternoon, you're picking out a tune. That's exactly why it's become a favorite for beginners and for anyone who wants something meditative to pick up after work. Our restock covers a full range of sizes and price points:
Stagg 17-Key Professional Kalimba (€65) — our best all-rounder, with a full range for playing real songs.
10-Key Kalimbas from Stagg — a lighter, cheaper entry point if you just want to try the instrument first.
Electro-Acoustic Kalimbas — these come with a built-in pickup for anyone who wants to plug into an amp or record directly.
Steel Tongue Drums — For Slow Afternoons and Meditation Rooms
If you've seen a steel tongue drum online but never played one in person, it's worth the trip just to hear it! The resonance carries in a way that video never quite captures. Both of ours are hand-tuned and come with a mallet pair and a carry bag:
Nataraj Tonguedrum, 20cm, C Major Pentatonic (€180) — it has a bright, happy, bell-like tone.
Nataraj Tonguedrum, 30cm, C# Amara (€220) — this one has a deeper, more meditative Indian tuning, well suited to yoga or therapy spaces.
Güiros and Shakers — The Small Stuff That Makes a Rhythm Section
These instruments are easy to overlook but impossible to do without once you've played with one! They round out a percussion set and make genuinely good, low-cost gifts:
Iguana Guiro (€25) and Cricket Guiro (€20) — carved wood, playful for kids and adults alike.
Metal Guiro Shaker by Stagg (€45) — this one has a brighter, more percussive ratchet tone.
Bean Shaker (€12), AfroTon Hexagonal Shaker (€12), and Talking Shaker (€15) — pocket-money percussion that still sounds properly good.
Why Choose Handmade Instruments?
Handmade instruments carry a unique charm! Each piece is crafted with care, ensuring that no two are exactly alike. This individuality can enhance your musical experience. Plus, supporting local artisans helps foster a vibrant music community. When you choose handmade, you're not just buying an instrument; you're investing in a story!
Come Play Them in Sliema
Sun-Sounds is Malta's only Afroton stockist, so this is the one place on the island to try the full range side by side before you buy. Drop in, or get in touch if you'd like us to hold a piece for you. Whether you're an aspiring musician or a seasoned pro, we have something for everyone!
So, what are you waiting for? Come on down and explore our fantastic selection of instruments! You might just find your new favorite!
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