Specifications
- Tuning: monochord, 40 strings — 21 plain overtone strings in c, 15 wound bass strings in C, 4 extra-strong bass strings in C
- Slit drum: 4 tones — A, H, d, e
- Wood: padouk (Pterocarpus soyauxii), beech (Fagaceae)
- Overall size: 190 × 81 × 58 cm
- Lying surface: 135 × 70 cm, ergonomically curved
- Accessories: mallet, tuning key, tuner, spare strings, hygrometer
- Finish: natural hard wax oil
- Origin: Germany
Sound and character
The padouk sound wave unites two worlds: one side carries a 40-string monochord across two octaves, the other a slit drum with deeply vibrating tones in A, H, d, and e. The monochord spreads an endless, floating sound carpet in which body and soul can arrive, while the drum's low pulse is often felt rather than heard. Padouk's warm, reddish-brown wood gives the bass a particularly full, focused resonance.
How to use
Place the client on the ergonomically curved lying surface so the spine settles naturally. Begin the session with slow, rhythmic strokes on the slit drum — this helps grounding — then move to the monochord side for the deep phase of the sound massage. The instrument is used in one-to-one therapy, group meditations, wellness programmes, and scientific research alike.
Why this product
- Developed in 2003 by instrument builder Ingo Böhme and body therapist Martina Gläser-Böhme
- Two instruments in one: monochord + slit drum
- Padouk: particularly dense wood that radiates deep vibration
- Ergonomically curved lying surface — gentle on the spine
- Professional quality used even in scientific research
Care tips
- Place a footstool (Ulmer) at the foot end — the sound still travels through the body even when the feet don't touch the resonant body
- Use a soft pillow under the head to keep breathing free
- Check humidity with the hygrometer (ideal range: 40–60%)
- Touch up the monochord strings with the tuning key from time to time
- Do not place drinks or heavy objects on the resonant body
About Feeltone
Feeltone is a craft instrument workshop based in Lassan, northern Germany, founded by Ingo Böhme. For over two decades they have built monochords, sound beds, sound chairs, and ceremonial drums for therapists, sound artists, and meditation practitioners. Every instrument is hand-built from certified sustainably sourced wood and finished with natural treatments (hard wax oil).