Specifications
- Size: 129 × 30 × 11 cm (catalogue body dimensions 30 × 9 cm frame)
- Material: frame in cherry wood, soundboard in ash wood
- Stringing: double-sided — 30 bass strings tuned to D on one side, 20 plain overtone strings tuned to d plus a 4-string tambura (D, d, d, a) on the other
- Tuning: D (can also be tuned down to vedic C# on request)
- Weight: 10.1 kg
- Accessories included: stand foot, round stand, tuning key, tuning device, spare strings
- Finish: treated with natural hard-wax oil
- Origin: Germany (handcrafted at the Feeltone workshop)
Sound and character
The Tambura monochord is a special instrument because it unites two worlds in a single body. On one side the deep, dense bass vibration of the classic monochord rings out, slowly filling the room with the combined resonance of 30 strings. The other side is built in two layers: the floating, crystalline overtones of 20 plain strings answer the bass, and beside them four tambura strings (D, d, d, a) sound when plucked. By sliding the jiva (threads) under the strings, the tambura starts to buzz and gently rasp into life — this typically Indian, fifth-based sound is the foundation of classical Indian ensembles. The three sonic layers together create an extraordinarily rich, airy yet grounded soundscape.
How to use
The Tambura monochord works equally well for personal meditation, two-person sound therapy and group ceremonies. You can begin a meditation by stroking one side with slow, long movements, then offer a fifth-based foundation to chanting or mantra practice by plucking the tambura strings. You can move freely between the overtone side and the bass side, building the whole dramaturgy of a session on a single instrument.
Why this product
Choose the Tambura monochord if you want to extend the classic octave monochord experience with an Indian, sacred dimension. Two instruments in one — less to carry, a unified sound, yet versatile uses. An ideal choice for experienced sound workers leading live ceremonies, meditation courses or deep therapeutic processes.
Care tips
- Slide the jiva threads gently under the strings to set the depth of the tambura buzz.
- Try the vedic C# tuning if you would like a softer, warmer character.
- If overtightened, strings can break and the loose ends may cause injury — always tune in small steps.
- Mind your fingers when sliding the bridges under the strings; the brass pins are sharp.
- Store on a stable stand at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
- A matching carry bag and beater are available separately.
About Feeltone
Feeltone is a handcraft instrument workshop based in Lassan, northern Germany, founded by Ingo Böhme. For more than 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 sustainably sourced woods and finished with natural treatments such as hard-wax oil.