Gear article

Idiopan 14" Dual Tone Steel Tongue Drum Onyx Rainbow

The Idiopan 14" Dual Tone Steel Tongue Drum is a melodic percussion instrument crafted from American steel featuring a distinctive Onyx Rainbow finish. Designed for both beginner and professional use, it produces a wide range of calming, resonant tones suitable for acoustic settings and meditative practices.

See live prices

Overview

The Idiopan 14" Dual Tone Steel Tongue Drum in Onyx Rainbow is a precision-crafted idiophone designed for melodic expression. Built from high-quality American steel, it is engineered to provide a durable yet resonant playing surface. The 'Dual Tone' designation refers to the specific arrangement and tuning of the tongues, allowing for a broader spectrum of notes and harmonics than standard single-tone models. Its visual aesthetic is defined by the Onyx Rainbow finish, which provides a unique, iridescent look to the instrument.

Playing Techniques and Sound Character

This instrument is versatile in its application, offering two primary methods of play:

  • Mallets: Using the included medium-density mallets produces a sharper, more defined attack and increased volume, which is often referred to as a 'harsher' tone compared to hand-striking.
  • Hand Playing: Striking the tongues with fingers or palms results in a softer, gentler tone, providing a more intimate and organic sound character.

The overall sound is characterised by its calming and bliss-inducing quality, making it a popular choice for relaxation and small acoustic performances.

Included Accessories

To ensure the instrument is ready for use and remains in peak condition, Idiopan includes several essential accessories:

1. Medium Density Mallets: These are specifically weighted to interact with the American steel tongues for optimal resonance. 2. Microfiber Cloth: A dedicated cleaning cloth is provided to maintain the Onyx Rainbow finish and keep the drum free of fingerprints or dust.

Its 14-inch size makes it relatively easy to transport for musicians on the move.

Target Audience and Applications

The Idiopan 14" is designed to be accessible for beginners while meeting the tonal requirements of experienced percussionists. Due to its peaceful sonic profile, it is frequently utilised in small acoustic settings, yoga studios, and sound therapy sessions. While it shares a market space with other rhythmic instruments like the Sela Melody Tongue Drum or traditional snare drums like the Sonor AQ2 or Tama Starclassic, the Idiopan focuses specifically on melodic steel percussion rather than standard kit drumming.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What material is the Idiopan 14 Dual Tone Steel Tongue Drum made from?
The instrument is constructed from 100% American steel. This choice of material ensures durability and a specific resonant quality typical of high-end steel tongue drums.
What finish is used on this specific model?
This model features the Onyx Rainbow finish. It is a visually striking, iridescent coating that gives the drum a unique aesthetic appearance.
Does the drum come with mallets?
Yes, it comes complete with medium-density mallets. These are designed to provide a varied range of playing options compared to using one's hands.
Can you play this drum with your hands?
Yes, the drum can be played by hand. Hand-playing typically produces a slightly gentler and more organic tone than using mallets.
What is the typical price for the Idiopan 14 Onyx Rainbow?
The typical price range for this specific model is approximately £595. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer and shipping costs.
Is the Idiopan 14 suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed to be ideal for both beginners and experienced players. Its intuitive layout allows new users to start playing calming tones immediately.
What kind of settings is this drum best suited for?
The drum is ideal for small acoustic settings. Its calming and relaxed tones also make it suitable for meditation, sound therapy, and personal relaxation.
How do I maintain the finish of the drum?
The drum includes a microfiber cloth for maintenance. Using this cloth regularly helps keep the Onyx Rainbow finish in pristine condition.
How does the sound differ when using mallets?
Playing with mallets generally results in harsher, louder, and more defined tones. This is useful for settings where more projection is required.
Is the Idiopan 14 easy to transport?
Yes, the 14-inch diameter makes the instrument easy to transport. It is compact enough for mobile musicians to take to various acoustic sessions.
What is meant by 'Dual Tone' in the product name?
Dual Tone refers to the specific tuning and tongue configuration of the drum. This design allows the player to access a wider range of tones and harmonic possibilities.
How does this compare to the Sela Melody Tongue Drum?
The Idiopan 14 is a larger, more professional-grade instrument compared to the Sela Melody 5.5" model. The Idiopan offers a broader tonal range and more resonance due to its size and dual-tone design.