A tabla is a musical instrument that consists of a small pair of drums. These belong to the percussion family. Its name tabla came from the word tabl, the Arabic term for drum. Technically, musicians use both hands as a tool to play these. The tabla originated in India and Pakistan. However, some scholars argued about its origin. Some scholars argued that it may have been from the Indian subcontinent.
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Top 10 Best Tablas in India-Buyers Guide
List of Tablas |
Check at Amazon |
| 1. Akshar Wood Dayan and Steel Bayan |  |
| 2. Baba Surjan Singh & Sons | |
| 3. SA Trading designing copper tabla set | |
| 4. SG Musical Tabla | |
| 5. SM’SAI MUSICALS Tabla Set | |
| 6. Archi Musicals Tabla Set | |
| 7. HS Internet Indian Musical Instrument | |
| 8. KL Internet® Tabla Drum Set | |
| 9. Clapbox Tabla Set | |
| 10. SAI Musicals | |
Features of Tabla
- Both drums differ in size. Each drum is made out of wood, clay, or metal.
- Indians call the smaller drum daya and play it with their right hand. Meanwhile, the larger drum is called baya, played by their left hand.
- The daya is cone-shaped while the baya has a kettledrum shape.
- When beaten, the daya produces a high-pitched sound. The baya, on the other hand, produces bass.
Types of Tabla
- Tablas can differ in many ways. Just like any other instruments, professional players alter their tablas. They modify so that they can achieve their desired sound and tone. Such customizations are materials used, laces, and thickness of the membrane.
- Customization varies on which type of Gharana they play. There are six main tabla gharanas namely: Ajraras, Delhi Farrukhabad, Lucknow, and Punjab.
- More importantly, a player must maintain the drums in good condition.
Buyer’s guide for Tabla
- Check for a dayan that has a tune in the key of D to keep up with everyone else. A Dayan with a head circumference of 5.25 inches would be ideal.
- The bayan is heavier than the Dayan. Its weight affects tone and clarity. Check for its quality by pairing it to the Dayan you plan to buy then try playing. Note their harmony if it’s a good pair.
How to use Tabla?
- The beats produced by the tabla are different based on what notes are to be played. Before that, it is important to know the proper hand placement.
- Place your four fingers on the daya then raise the middle finger.
- Place your left wrist on the baya then raise your hand.
- Hit the daya with the index finger followed by the ring finger to create sound. Meanwhile, use only the tip of the index finger to tap the baya. Close the remaining fingers so it won’t hit the baya.
- Begin the beat to create rythm.
List of Top 10 Best Tablas in India-Buyers Guide
1. Akshar Professional Wood Dayan and Steel Bayan
The bayan is 9 inches in length and 2 kg heavy. Dayan is 5.5 inches in length and 4kg heavy.
Pros
- It has good sound quality.
- Thia comes with a waterproof bag.
- It also has gadi chumbal set
Cons
- Poor packaging from the seller.
- It is a bit expensive.
2. Baba Surjan Singh & Sons
These are made of wood. It is 7kg heavy.
Pros
- It is easy to play and handle.
- It has accessories like a bag, hammer, and protective cover for the tabla head.
- Good for students learning.
Cons
- It is difficult to adjust the tune.
- The sound is too high.
3. SA Trading Company designing copper table set
The bayan is made of copper and daya is from Sheesham wood. It is estimated to be around 2.5kgs to 3kgs.
Pros
- Special handmade pooris and baddi.
- It has accessories such as a carrying bag, tuning hammer, cushions, and covers.
- It has a nice appearance.
Cons
- It has low quality of sound after tuning.
- It is expensive.
4. SG Musical Tabla
It is made from metal and Sheesham wood. Dayan is 10 to 11 inches in length and 5 to 5.5 inches in head circumference. Bayan has a 9 to 9.25 inches head circumference.
Pros
- It is already fully tuned.
- It comes with cushions, covers, and pudding.
- Drums and accessories are specially handmade.
Cons
- The tuning needs to be adjusted
- Weighs 8kgs.
5. SM’SAI MUSICALS Tabla Set
Dayan is made of wood. Bayan is made of metal.
Pros
- It includes accessories.
- It has a cheaper price.
- Durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- It is ideal for beginners and students.
- Fewer product reviews which means a few only have bought this item.
6. Archi Musicals Tabla Set
Metal bayan and Sheesham wood Dayan. Head circumference is 5 to 5.5 inches and 10 to 11 inches in height.
Pros
- It is already fully tuned.
- Easy to carry.
- It is cheaper.
Cons
- Ideal for beginners and students.
- Fewer product reviews which mean a few only have bought this item
7. HS Internet Professional Wooden Indian Musical Instrument
Made from iron on nickel polished made tabla. These are handmade.
Pros
- Easy to play and handle.
- The price is cheap.
- Item includes a bag, hammer, and cloth for covering the upper head of the tabla.
Cons
- For beginners and students.
- Fewer product reviews which mean a few only have bought this item
8. KL Internet® Tabla Drum Set
The bayan is made of iron and Dayan is from Sheesham wood. The dimension is 27 x 24 x 17 centimeters.
Pros
- It comes with a hammer and cushions with a bag.
- Good for beginners and professionals.
- It is a bit pricey.
Cons
- Low-quality leather was used.
- It is lightweight.
9. Clapbox Tabla Set
Made of Sheesham wood with handmade pudding. Dayan is 5.5 inches in head circumference and bayan is 9 inches in head circumference and 10.5 inches in height.
Pros
- Traditional tuning system with rawhide thongs.
- It includes a tuning hammer, wooden tuning dowel, ring pads, protective head covers, and a protective bag.
- Handcrafted table set.
Cons
- Has few customer reviews as a basis.
- It is lightweight.
10. SAI Musicals
Dayan is made from Sheesham wood. Its head circumference is 5.25 inches and its height is about 22 to 25 centimeters.
Pros
- Dayan has good sound quality.
- It is handmade.
- Cheap price.
Cons
- Bayan is not included.
- No accessories included.
Conclusion
Tabla can be played by students, beginners, and professionals alike. Although, the sound quality of the tabla varies. It depends on the raw materials that were used to handcraft the drums.
It is important to be careful and patient when looking to buy a tabla. When you are a beginner, ask for the expertise of a professional. If not, take note of the buyer’s guide.
It is also necessary to know the parts of the tabla and how it is tuned. This is a big help when you want to modify your tabla to alter its sound.
FAQs
What does tabla mean in India?
“Tabla” in India means a pair of small drums. It is an instrument used in Hindustani classical music. Tabla is also used in some other neighboring countries like Indonesia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is a unique traditional instrument that has been part of the North Indian heritage.
Musicians play the tabla solo or with the accompaniment of a group.
It is also heard in Indian folk dances such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, etc.
Which is the best tabla?
Best tablas are enumerated herein. Please be aware that the top 10 list enumerated is for guidance only. These are based on customer reviews on Amazon and read the product description.
What is the price of Tabla?”
Table prices range from 3,540 to 7999 Indian rupees. This is because of variations in quality.