The Ultimate Tanpura Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Purchase

Your Guide to buying the best Tanpura

Overview

The Tanpura is an important and ancient instrument used in many different forms of Hindustani and Carnatic music. It is a stringed instrument that produces a drone and is used as a tonic accompaniment in many styles of Indian classical music. In this buying guide, we will explore the different types of Tanpuras available, as well as the various features that make each unique. We will discuss how to select the right Tanpura for your needs, what to look for when purchasing, and what makes one Tanpura better than another. This guide is intended to help you make an educated decision when purchasing your Tanpura, and it should make the process of selecting and purchasing your Tanpura much easier.

Key features

  1. Size & Weight - Depending on the size and weight of the Tanpura, it may be more or less portable. Make sure to consider how you plan to transport the Tanpura and how much space you have available to store it.
  2. Materials - Tanpuras are typically made using some combination of metal, wood, and strings. The type of material used can affect the sound of the instrument, so consider the materials before making a purchase.
  3. Tuning - Tanpuras come with different levels of tuning; some are able to be manually tuned while others are preset. Consider your playing style and skill level to decide which tuning is best for you.
  4. Price - Tanpuras vary in price depending on the size, materials, and tuning that are offered. Consider your budget and the features you desire to determine what price range is best for you.
  5. Accessories & Maintenance - Some Tanpuras come with accessories and maintenance kits that can help extend the lifespan of your instrument. When making your purchase, consider what accessories and maintenance kits are included and what other items you may need to purchase separately.

See the most popular Tanpura on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Age of Tanpura - Tanpuras are generally made from wood which will affect the overall sound quality. Older tanpuras may have had more time to age and will produce a better sound quality.
  • Cost of Tanpura - Tanpuras come in different price ranges, depending on the material used and the craftsmanship involved in making the instrument. Higher-end Tanpuras will produce a better sound.
  • Number of Strings - Tanpuras typically have four strings, though some may have more. It is important to consider how many strings you need for the type of music you are playing.
  • Size of Tanpura - Tanpuras come in different sizes, from small to large. Depending on your space, you will need to consider which size will fit best in your space.
  • Tone of the Tanpura - Different Tanpuras have different sounds, so it is important to consider the tone of the Tanpura before buying.
  • String Quality - The quality of the strings on a Tanpura will affect the sound quality and tone. Look for Tanpuras with high-quality strings.

Cons

  • Cost - Tanpuras can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, so they can get quite expensive.
  • Size - Tanpuras tend to be quite large, which may be an issue for those who are limited on space.
  • Maintenance - Tanpuras require regular maintenance in order to keep them in tip-top playing condition.
  • Quality - Not all Tanpuras are created equal, and some may be of lower quality than others.
  • Availability - Tanpuras can be hard to find and may not be available for purchase in all areas.

Best alternatives

  1. Sarangi - A bowed instrument made of wood that has a deep, rich tone.
  2. Sitar - A plucked instrument with a long neck, and a bright sound.
  3. Tabla - A percussion instrument composed of two drums, one played with hands and the other with a stick.
  4. Harmonium - A two octave keyboard instrument with a foot-pumped bellows.
  5. Veena - A plucked string instrument with a large, curved body.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Tuning hammer - Used to tune the Tanpura and adjust the tension of the strings.
  • Pick - A small plastic or wooden triangular pick used to pluck the strings of the Tanpura.
  • Extra strings - Replacement strings in case the strings on the Tanpura break.
  • Reeds - A thin strip of bamboo that serves as a bridge for the strings on a Tanpura.
  • Case - A padded hardshell case to store and protect a Tanpura in transit.
  • Cloth - A cloth or sheet to place over the Tanpura to protect it from dust and dirt.

Common questions

  1. How is the tone quality of a Tanpura? The tone quality of a Tanpura is typically mellow, warm, and lush. The resonance of the instrument is focused on the fundamental notes and the sound can be quite complex.
  2. What materials are used to construct a Tanpura? Tanpuras are traditionally made of wood, often rosewood with a gourd for the body. More modern designs may also use steel or plastic.
  3. How often should I tune my Tanpura? Tuning should be done regularly, as often as every few days. Make sure to check the tuning of your Tanpura after each time you play it.
  4. What strings are used for Tanpura? Tanpuras use metal strings which are usually brass or steel.
  5. What kind of maintenance is needed for a Tanpura? Tanpuras require regular maintenance such as cleaning the body, tightening the strings, and oiling the wood. This should be done regularly to ensure the longevity of the instrument.

Trivia

An interesting fact about the Tanpura is that it is the only stringed instrument capable of sustaining one note for an extended period of time. This quality is used to provide a drone effect in classical Indian music. Because of its unique sound, the Tanpura is used in many different genres, from Indian classical to fusion and even jazz. The Tanpura was also used by the legendary composer, violinist, and singer, Ravi Shankar, in some of his most iconic works. This shows the versatility of the Tanpura and how it can be used to create a wide range of soundscapes. Source.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.