This Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) drum in copper tone is crafted in Alexandria, Egypt. The cast aluminum body and synthetic head are durable and produce crisp sounding dooms and teks. Includes padded carrying bag with strap, extra synthetic head, and tuning key.
While all of our drums are brand-new, there may be minor cosmetic blemishes on the drum that does not effect the sound. This is common with Egyptian drums and can be caused during drum head installation, tuning, testing, packing, and transit.
17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) – COPPER from BellyDance.com
The 17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) – COPPER from BellyDance.com represents the perfect combination of tradition, craftsmanship, and sound excellence. Handcrafted by expert artisans in Egypt, this drum showcases the deep cultural roots of Middle Eastern percussion while delivering the durability and performance standards expected by modern musicians. Its polished copper metallic finish adds a luxurious touch, making it both a powerful performance instrument and a visual work of art.
Designed for both professional percussionists and dedicated learners, this darbuka produces clear, rich tones with outstanding projection and precision. Whether used for belly dance performances, live concerts, or studio recordings, it offers an authentic Egyptian sound that resonates with warmth, clarity, and heritage.
The Legacy of the Egyptian Tabla
The Egyptian tabla, also known as the doumbek or darbuka, is one of the oldest and most iconic percussion instruments in the world. Its goblet-shaped design produces a wide tonal range—from deep bass notes (“doom”) to sharp, high-pitched slaps (“tek”).
For centuries, the doumbek has been at the heart of Egyptian and Middle Eastern music, accompanying dancers, vocalists, and ensembles. The instrument’s rhythms form the foundation of traditional and modern Arabic music styles such as Baladi, Maqsum, Saidi, and Malfuf.
The 17" Metallic Doumbek – COPPER continues this legacy, blending time-honored Egyptian craftsmanship with contemporary design and materials that enhance both sound and aesthetics.
Handcrafted in Egypt with Premium Materials
Each 17" Metallic Doumbek (Egyptian Tabla) is handcrafted in Alexandria, Egypt, by skilled artisans who have mastered the art of drum-making through generations. The drum features a cast aluminum body finished with a radiant metallic copper coating, giving it a warm, earthy tone and a polished, professional appearance.
The attention to detail is remarkable—the sleek body is balanced for comfort, while the rim is smooth and precisely shaped to facilitate advanced finger techniques and hand rolls. The result is a drum that’s as comfortable to play as it is stunning to behold.
Key Specifications:
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Height: 17 inches (43.2 cm)
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Head Diameter (Playing Surface): 8.6 inches (22 cm)
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Top Rim Diameter: 11 inches (28 cm)
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Base Diameter: 7.5 inches (19 cm)
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Body Material: Cast aluminum with metallic copper finish
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Head Type: Synthetic (Remo-style) for durability and tonal consistency
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Tuning System: Six-bolt internal tuning system
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Weight: Approximately 8–9 lbs (4 kg)
Each drum is individually crafted and tested for tonal accuracy, ensuring that every unit delivers the distinct, authentic sound Egyptian doumbeks are known for.
Rich, Balanced, and Powerful Sound
The 17" Metallic Doumbek – COPPER offers a dynamic sound profile suitable for professional performances and recording sessions alike. Its aluminum body provides exceptional resonance, while the synthetic head maintains a perfect balance between bass depth and treble clarity.
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Deep “Doom” (Bass Notes): Rich, warm, and full-bodied with strong projection.
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Crisp “Tek” (High Notes): Sharp and articulate with clean attack.
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Balanced Sustain: Smooth decay, perfect for intricate rhythms and expressive playing.
This sound quality makes the COPPER model ideal for a variety of musical settings, from solo performances to full-stage ensembles. It is especially favored by belly dance musicians who need precision, volume, and tonal clarity to match the dancer’s energy and flow.
Built for Performance and Durability
The 17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka – COPPER is more than a beautiful instrument—it’s built for demanding musicians who perform regularly. The synthetic head resists humidity and temperature changes, ensuring consistent tone and tension whether you’re playing indoors, outdoors, or under stage lighting.
The six-bolt internal tuning system gives you complete control over the head tension. Whether you prefer a low, deep tone for traditional rhythms or a tighter, brighter sound for modern arrangements, you can easily fine-tune the drum to suit your style.
The lightweight aluminum shell is both durable and easy to handle, making it perfect for travel, rehearsals, and extended performances. This design allows musicians to play for long sessions without fatigue, maintaining comfort and precision throughout.
Visual Elegance: The Beauty of Copper
The copper metallic finish gives this darbuka a distinctive visual appeal that sets it apart from standard models. The warm, reddish hue of the copper coating reflects stage lights beautifully, creating a rich, captivating effect that complements belly dance performances, cultural showcases, and studio settings.
Copper has long symbolized energy, creativity, and vitality—qualities that resonate perfectly with the rhythmic heartbeat of the darbuka. Its smooth metallic luster adds a professional and luxurious aesthetic, making it both an instrument and a statement piece.
Designed for All Levels of Musicians
The 17" Metallic Doumbek (Egyptian Tabla) – COPPER is designed for performers of all skill levels:
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Professional Musicians: Its projection, tonal balance, and durability make it ideal for concerts, recordings, and stage shows.
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Intermediate Players: Offers easy playability and precise tuning control to refine technique.
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Beginners: Lightweight and ergonomically designed, making it comfortable for practice and learning foundational rhythms.
The drum’s balanced size and shape make it versatile for seated or standing play, and its smooth rim supports traditional finger rolls, snaps, and slaps with ease.
Included Accessories
Each 17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka – COPPER from BellyDance.com comes with essential accessories to protect and maintain your instrument:
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Padded Carrying Bag: Keeps the drum safe from scratches and impacts during transport.
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Extra Synthetic Head: Ensures long-term playability by allowing quick replacement when needed.
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Tuning Key: Included for easy adjustment of the six-bolt tuning system.
These accessories make it easy to maintain the instrument’s pristine appearance and optimal sound performance for years.
The Sound of Tradition Meets Modern Innovation
This darbuka perfectly bridges the gap between traditional Egyptian craftsmanship and modern musical innovation. The copper metallic finish adds contemporary flair, while the sound remains deeply rooted in Egypt’s centuries-old percussive traditions.
Whether playing for a belly dance performance, folk ensemble, or world music fusion project, this drum provides the rhythmic foundation and expressive versatility that only a handcrafted Egyptian tabla can deliver.
Its portability, visual brilliance, and professional sound projection make it a favorite among traveling musicians, stage performers, and percussion instructors worldwide.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care will ensure your 17" Metallic Doumbek – COPPER maintains its beauty and tone for years:
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Wipe the Surface: After each session, use a soft, dry cloth to remove fingerprints, oils, or dust.
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Avoid Moisture: While the finish is durable, extended exposure to humidity can affect the polish.
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Tuning Care: Adjust bolts evenly and gradually when tightening or loosening the head to prevent warping.
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Storage: Always store in the padded bag when not in use to protect against scratches and impact.
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Temperature Awareness: Keep away from extreme heat or cold to preserve tuning stability.
With these simple maintenance habits, your darbuka will remain as radiant and resonant as the day you bought it.
Cultural Significance and Heritage
The darbuka is more than just a percussion instrument—it’s a cultural symbol that connects people across time and geography. In Egypt, it has been the rhythmic foundation for storytelling, spiritual ceremonies, and artistic expression.
The copper finish adds a touch of modern artistry to this ancient instrument, reflecting the evolution of Middle Eastern music into contemporary performance spaces. When played, it bridges the old and new, celebrating Egypt’s musical identity while inviting creativity and exploration.
Owning this instrument means carrying a piece of Egyptian history, where craftsmanship meets culture, and rhythm speaks a universal language.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 17" Metallic Doumbek – COPPER suitable for professional use?
A: Yes. Its handcrafted design, powerful sound, and high-quality materials make it ideal for professional musicians and performers.
Q: Can it be used outdoors?
A: Absolutely. The aluminum body and synthetic head are designed to withstand various environments. Just avoid direct moisture or prolonged sunlight.
Q: Does it come pre-tuned?
A: Yes, it comes tuned and ready to play out of the box, with a tuning key for future adjustments.
Q: How does the copper finish compare to other models?
A: The copper finish provides a warmer visual aesthetic and slightly richer tone reflection than silver or gold models, while maintaining the same structure and playability.
Q: Can beginners use it comfortably?
A: Yes. Its ergonomic design and balanced weight make it accessible for all levels, including beginners.
A Masterpiece of Sound, Craft, and Culture
The 17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) – COPPER from BellyDance.com stands as a true masterpiece in both sound and craftsmanship. With its polished copper body, authentic Egyptian construction, and powerful tone, it embodies the essence of Middle Eastern percussion artistry.
Whether you’re performing on stage, recording in the studio, or learning the timeless rhythms of Egyptian music, this darbuka delivers elegance, performance, and authenticity in every beat.
With its radiant metallic copper finish and exceptional resonance, it is not just an instrument—it’s a celebration of rhythm, culture, and craftsmanship.
