Gear article
Nino by Meinl NINO598 Orange Shaker
The Nino by Meinl NINO598 is a hand-held percussion instrument designed for young learners and music education environments. Shaped to resemble a realistic orange, this shaker is constructed from high-quality plastic to provide a bright, textured sound and high durability during use.

Overview and Design
The NINO598 is a specialized percussion instrument that forms part of the Nino Percussion range by Meinl. It is characterized by its realistic visual design, mimicking the appearance of a standard orange. This aesthetic approach is intended to make the instrument approachable and engaging for a younger audience, particularly in classroom or workshop settings.
Constructed from durable plastic, the shaker features a textured surface area. This design choice serves a dual purpose: it enhances the realistic look of the fruit while providing a secure grip for smaller hands, ensuring the instrument remains stable during vigorous play.
Sonic Characteristics
Despite its playful appearance, the NINO598 is designed to deliver a professional-standard bright sound. The internal filling interacting with the plastic shell produces a crisp, clear tone that can cut through a musical mix. By varying the intensity of the shaking motion, players can achieve a range of different textures, making it a versatile tool for rhythm and timing exercises.

Target Audience and Application
This shaker is primarily engineered for the 'younger audience' mentioned in its manufacturer specifications. Its robust build quality makes it particularly suitable for:
- Music schools and primary education classrooms.
- Percussion workshops and group therapy sessions.
- Home use for early childhood musical development.
The durability of the plastic construction ensures that the instrument can withstand the frequent handling and potential drops associated with educational environments.
Market Comparison
Within the percussion market, the NINO598 sits alongside other entry-level and educational instruments. While standard shakers like the Meinl Small Plastic Egg Maracas or Stagg Plastic Egg Maracas offer a traditional form factor, the NINO598 provides a thematic alternative. It occupies a different functional space than specialized metal shakers, such as the Meinl Spin Spark Shaker, which is designed for more complex sound effects. Compared to melodic instruments like the Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel, the NINO598 remains a purely rhythmic, non-pitched tool.
Related gear
£3.99 ($5)Stagg
Stagg Plastic Egg Maracas Red
£9.99 ($13)Stagg
Stagg Rock 5-1/2" Cowbell Black
£119.00 ($151)Sonor
Sonor Orff NG31 Alto Chromatic Glockenspiel
£23.70 ($30)Remo
Remo 6 Single Row Headless Tambourine Black
£299.00 ($380)Meinl
Meinl Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowl 12" Earth Year / Om
£16.00 ($20)Fender
Fender Blues Deluxe Harmonica A
£23.80 ($30)Meinl
Meinl Spin Spark Shaker Black Nickel
£8.11 ($10)Meinl
Meinl Small Plastic Egg Maracas Black
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary material used in the NINO598?
- The shaker is manufactured using high-quality plastic. This choice of material is intended to offer optimum durability for frequent use by younger players.
- What does the NINO598 shaker look like?
- The instrument is designed with an incredibly realistic visual to resemble an orange. It features a bright orange colour and a textured surface similar to fruit skin.
- What kind of sound does this shaker produce?
- The NINO598 delivers a beautifully bright sound. The character of the sound can be altered through different playing techniques to provide various rhythmic textures.
- Who is the NINO598 shaker designed for?
- It is specifically designed for a young audience. The size, grip, and visual appeal make it ideal for children and students in educational settings.
- Is the surface of the shaker smooth or textured?
- The shaker features a large, textured surface area. This design provides an enhanced grip for the user, ensuring it does not slip during play.
- Where is the NINO598 most commonly used?
- It is widely used in music schools, percussion workshops, and classroom environments. Its fun design and durability make it a popular choice for group music-making.
- How much does the Nino Orange Shaker typically cost?
- The instrument generally occupies a price range around £10. This makes it an affordable entry-point for schools and parents looking for percussion tools.
- How does the NINO598 compare to egg maracas?
- While products like Stagg or Meinl egg maracas share a similar plastic construction, the NINO598 offers a larger surface area and a fruit-themed design. The sound remains bright and crisp, similar to standard plastic shakers.
- Can the NINO598 be used for professional recording?
- While designed for children, its clear and bright sound means it can be used in any percussion box for recording purposes. However, it lacks the specialized tonal controls of metal or professional studio shakers.
- Is this instrument part of a specific brand range?
- Yes, it is part of the Nino Percussion range, which is a subsidiary of Meinl Percussion. Nino focuses specifically on instruments for children and education.
- Does the shaker require any maintenance?
- Due to its high-quality plastic construction, the NINO598 requires very little maintenance. It can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, making it hygienic for shared school use.
- Is the NINO598 a pitched or non-pitched instrument?
- The NINO598 is a non-pitched percussion instrument. It is used to provide rhythmic accompaniment rather than melodic notes like a glockenspiel or keyboard.
