What is the tuning of the Hokema B11 Melody?

The B11 is pre-tuned to the G major scale, which allows for harmonious play without the need for manual adjustment.

How many tines does the B11 have?

It features 11 meticulously crafted metal tines that cover both lower and upper registers.

What kind of wood is used for the resonator box?

The resonator is handmade from high-quality American black cherry wood.

Does this kalimba require a battery for the pickup?

No, it uses a passive piezo pickup system which does not require an internal battery or external power source.

What type of cable is needed to plug it into an amp?

The instrument uses a standard 1/4-inch (6.35mm) mono jack cable, the same type used for electric guitars.

Is the B11 suitable for children?

Yes, its pre-selected tuning and simple layout make it accessible for players of all ages and skill levels.

Can I record this instrument directly into a computer?

Yes, by using the 1/4-inch jack, you can plug it into an audio interface for direct recording into a DAW without a microphone.

How does the B11 differ from the standard B11 (non-electro)?

The 'Electro' version includes the internal piezo pickup and output jack, whereas the standard model is purely acoustic.

What is the typical price for the Hokema B11 Melody Electro?

The instrument is typically priced at approximately GBP 119.

Can the tines be re-tuned to different scales?

While it comes in G major, the metal tines can technically be adjusted by a technician, though it is designed to be played in its factory tuning.

Where is the Hokema B11 manufactured?

Hokema instruments are handmade, maintaining high production standards for their melodic percussion range.

What are the sonic characteristics of cherry wood?

Cherry wood provides an earthy resonance and a singing, lyrical tone that enhances the organic sound of the metal tines.

Gear article

Hokema B11 Melody Electro Kalimba

The Hokema B11 Melody Electro Kalimba is a professional-grade hand percussion instrument featuring 11 metal tines tuned to a G major scale. Constructed with a solid American black cherry wood resonator, it incorporates a built-in piezo pickup for direct amplification and recording via a standard 1/4-inch jack.

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Overview and Construction

The Hokema B11 Melody Electro Kalimba is a handmade melodic percussion instrument originating from Germany. It is built around a resonant box crafted from American black cherry wood, which serves as the acoustic chamber for the instrument's 11 metal tines. Unlike solid-body kalimbas, this hollow-body design is intended to enhance the natural volume and sustain of the notes.

The tines are precision-engineered to provide a specific layout that facilitates both rhythmic accompaniment and melodic lead lines. The instrument is designed for portability and ease of use, maintaining a compact form factor that fits comfortably in the hands of the player.

Tuning and Playability

The B11 is factory-tuned to the G major scale, which includes a selection of lower register notes and a full upper register scale. This configuration is particularly beneficial for beginners or those seeking an intuitive musical experience, as all notes within the scale are harmonically compatible.

Features of the B11 layout include: * Diatonic Scale: Players can perform melodies without encountering dissonant intervals. * Versatile Range: The combination of low and high notes allows for polyphonic playing (melody and bass simultaneously). * Fixed Intonation: The instrument is designed to stay in tune, allowing for 'pick-up-and-play' utility right out of the box.

Electronic Integration

A defining feature of the 'Electro' model is the integration of a passive piezo pickup system. This allows the kalimba to be connected directly to external hardware such as: * Guitar amplifiers or PA systems. * Audio interfaces for studio recording. * Effects pedals (reverb, delay, etc.) for sound manipulation.

The output is facilitated by a standard 6.35mm (1/4") jack socket, eliminating the need for external microphones in live or studio environments. This makes the B11 specifically suitable for performing musicians who require consistent volume levels in a band setting.

Sound Profile and Target Audience

The B11 Melody is characterised by an organic, 'singing' tone with an earthy resonance attributed to its cherry wood construction. The sound is often described as lyrical and expressive, making it a popular choice for sound therapy, relaxation music, and folk compositions.

Because it does not require prior musical theory knowledge to produce pleasant sounds, it suits players of all ages and abilities. However, the addition of electronic components makes it equally viable for professional recording artists and stage performers looking for a reliable, plug-and-play lamellophone.

Market Comparison

Within the percussion market, the B11 occupies a specialized niche. While products like the *Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel* provide chromatic versatility for educational settings, the B11 offers a more portable, hand-held alternative. Compared to smaller rhythmic tools such as *Meinl Egg Maracas* or *Stagg Cowbells*, the Hokema B11 is a pitched melodic instrument. Its primary competition often comes from other kalimbas, but its use of premium American cherry wood and integrated electronics distinguishes it from standard mass-produced plastic or plywood models.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the tuning of the Hokema B11 Melody?: The B11 is pre-tuned to the G major scale, which allows for harmonious play without the need for manual adjustment.
How many tines does the B11 have?: It features 11 meticulously crafted metal tines that cover both lower and upper registers.
What kind of wood is used for the resonator box?: The resonator is handmade from high-quality American black cherry wood.
Does this kalimba require a battery for the pickup?: No, it uses a passive piezo pickup system which does not require an internal battery or external power source.
What type of cable is needed to plug it into an amp?: The instrument uses a standard 1/4-inch (6.35mm) mono jack cable, the same type used for electric guitars.
Is the B11 suitable for children?: Yes, its pre-selected tuning and simple layout make it accessible for players of all ages and skill levels.
Can I record this instrument directly into a computer?: Yes, by using the 1/4-inch jack, you can plug it into an audio interface for direct recording into a DAW without a microphone.
How does the B11 differ from the standard B11 (non-electro)?: The 'Electro' version includes the internal piezo pickup and output jack, whereas the standard model is purely acoustic.
What is the typical price for the Hokema B11 Melody Electro?: The instrument is typically priced at approximately GBP 119.
Can the tines be re-tuned to different scales?: While it comes in G major, the metal tines can technically be adjusted by a technician, though it is designed to be played in its factory tuning.
Where is the Hokema B11 manufactured?: Hokema instruments are handmade, maintaining high production standards for their melodic percussion range.
What are the sonic characteristics of cherry wood?: Cherry wood provides an earthy resonance and a singing, lyrical tone that enhances the organic sound of the metal tines.