Electro-Mbira (Antique) from 1950s
185,00 CHF
Crafted in Africa during the 1950s, this unique Mbira instrument has been reimagined with modern materials while preserving its authentic essence through an Upcycle design. Utilizing waste materials such as Coca Cola bottle caps to form the outer shell of the high-quality Piezo pickup, along with a 6.3mm input plug and high-conductivity cables, we have completed the electronic circuitry. By electronically enhancing the traditional tones of the Mbira, it now contributes to both traditional and contemporary music rhythms. Additionally, with the leather strap, the Mbira can be worn around the neck, allowing the player to control other instruments simultaneously.
Material : Wood, Metal, Leather
Size : 10 x 11.5cm
Years : 1950s
- Delivery to store
About Kalimba
Commonly known as the Thumb Piano or Kalimba/Karimba, this instrument is also referred to as “Sanza, Mbira, Ikembe,” and has many other variations. Nowadays, it is designed from gourds or rectangular wooden boxes, but in its ancient models, it typically consisted of metal tines attached to a single piece of wooden body, without any resonance chamber. Sound is produced by striking these metal tines with the fingers.
Kalimba has a rich history in the African continent, particularly in regions like Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique. Traditionally, it has been used in spiritual and ceremonial events in various parts of Africa, with its history dating back hundreds of years.
It is difficult to amplify Kalimba instruments with dynamic microphones on stage, and it does not yield good results. Therefore, we upgraded them to E-Kalimbas by adding high-quality piezo pickups. E-Kalimba designs are not only suitable for acoustic music performances, but also for electronic and experimental works. I should especially mention that they work perfectly with guitar pedals and LoFi cassette equipment.
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