Gear article

Meinl Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowl 12" Earth Year / Om

The Meinl Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowl is a 12-inch hand percussion instrument crafted from high-purity quartz and tuned to the Earth Year frequency of 136.10 Hz. Part of Meinl's 2023 Planetary line-up, it is specifically designed for sound therapy, meditation, and yoga applications through its long-lasting, spherical resonance.

See live prices

Overview and Construction

The Meinl Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowl represents a specialized entry in the brand's 2023 percussion lineup. Constructed from high-purity quartz, this 12-inch instrument is engineered to provide a consistent and predictable resonance. Unlike traditional metal singing bowls, the crystal construction offers a distinct visual aesthetic and a specific sonic clarity associated with quartz-based percussion.

The manufacturing process ensures that the bowl remains precisely tuned to 136.10 Hz. This frequency is designated as the 'Earth Year' or 'Om' tone, a standard used in planetary tuning systems to align the instrument with specific celestial calculations and energetic frequencies.

Tuning and Sonic Character

The primary feature of this model is its Earth Year tuning. Operating at a frequency of 136.10 Hz, the bowl produces what is described as a 'spherical tone'. When the bowl is gently tapped or rubbed with a mallet, it generates a long-lasting resonance that fills the surrounding space.

Historically and theoretically, this specific frequency corresponds with the primal sound 'Om'. In sound therapy contexts, it is intentionally aligned with all chakras, though it holds a particular association with the heart chakra. The resulting sound is intended to promote inner serenity, acceptance, and a calming atmosphere.

Applications in Sound Healing

Due to its precise tuning and high-clarity quartz material, the bowl is primarily used in settings focused on well-being and meditation. Common applications include:

  • Chakra Healing: Balancing the body's energy centres, particularly the heart.
  • Meditation and Yoga: Providing a focal point for auditory concentration and relaxation.
  • Sound Therapy: Professional sessions where specific frequencies are used for client recovery or stress relief.
  • Feng Shui: Improving the energetic quality of a room or living space through acoustic vibrations.

Comparison and Market Context

Within the Meinl range, this crystal bowl sits alongside other planetary tunings and designs, allowing practitioners to select bowls that suit specific moods or therapeutic needs. While Meinl produces a wide variety of percussion including the Spin Spark Shaker and various egg maracas, the Planetary Tuned series is a more specialized, high-fidelity offering for the wellness market.

Compared to traditional percussion like the Stagg Rock Cowbell or basic school instruments like the Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel, the Crystal Singing Bowl is a precision-tuned resonance tool. Its price point of approximately £299 reflects the use of high-purity quartz and the technical accuracy required for planetary tuning.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the exact frequency of the Earth Year singing bowl?
This bowl is precisely tuned to a frequency of 136.10 Hz, which corresponds to the Earth Year calculation.
What material is used to manufacture the bowl?
The bowl is crafted from high-purity quartz, which provides its characteristic clarity and long-lasting resonance.
Which chakra is this bowl most associated with?
While it is aligned with all chakras, it is particularly associated with the heart chakra.
How do you play the Meinl Crystal Singing Bowl?
The bowl is played by gently tapping the rim or rubbing it with a mallet to create a continuous 'singing' spherical tone.
When was this specific Meinl line-up released?
This model is part of the Meinl 2023 Planetary line-up of precision-tuned instruments.
What does 'Om' refer to in this context?
In this context, 'Om' refers to the primal sound that the 136.10 Hz frequency is said to represent.
What size is this specific singing bowl?
This specific model has a diameter of 12 inches, which contributes to its deep and resonant sound profile.
Can this bowl be used for Feng Shui?
Yes, it is specifically noted as being suitable for improving the energy and Feng Shui of a home environment.
What is the typical price for this instrument?
The Meinl Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowl typically retails for approximately GBP 299.
How does the sound differ from a standard metal singing bowl?
The high-purity quartz creates a more 'spherical' and crystalline tone with a different sustain profile compared to traditional metal alloys.
Is this bowl suitable for yoga classes?
Yes, its long-lasting resonance makes it an ideal accompaniment for yoga, meditation, and sound therapy sessions.
Does Meinl offer other tunings in this series?
Yes, the manufacturer indicates that these crystal singing bowls come in a range of different planetary tunings and designs.