This Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) drum in silver 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) – SILVER from BellyDance.com
The 17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) – SILVER from BellyDance.com is a beautifully crafted percussion instrument that reflects the soul of Egyptian rhythm, artistry, and sound design. Designed by skilled artisans in Egypt, this darbuka offers an authentic tone, exquisite metallic finish, and a versatile playing experience for both professional musicians and passionate students.
With its sleek silver coating, rich tonal clarity, and durable aluminum construction, this darbuka stands as both a visual masterpiece and a performance powerhouse. Whether accompanying a belly dance performance, adding dynamic rhythm to an ensemble, or enhancing a recording session, this instrument delivers the classic sound that defines Middle Eastern percussion.
The Legacy of the Egyptian Doumbek
The doumbek, also known as the darbuka or Egyptian tabla, is one of the most iconic percussion instruments in Middle Eastern music. Its goblet shape allows for a wide range of tones—from deep, resonant bass to sharp, high-pitched slaps. Traditionally played with intricate finger techniques, the doumbek has been the rhythmic foundation for Egyptian, Turkish, and Arabic music for centuries.
The 17" Metallic Doumbek – SILVER embodies this long-standing heritage. Crafted in Egypt—the birthplace of this beloved drum—it retains the authenticity, resonance, and precision that make Egyptian darbukas some of the most sought-after in the world. Every curve and contour of this drum is designed for both acoustic performance and aesthetic appeal.
Handcrafted Excellence and Sleek Design
Every 17" Metallic Doumbek (Egyptian Tabla) from BellyDance.com is handcrafted by expert Egyptian artisans who have mastered the art of drum-making through generations. The drum’s cast aluminum body offers a perfect balance of lightness and strength, making it easy to handle while ensuring durability for professional use.
Its metallic silver finish is more than just a color—it’s a statement of elegance. This finish reflects stage lighting beautifully, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for performances. The polished surface is smooth and sleek, symbolizing purity, balance, and sophistication.
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: Approximately 11 inches (28 cm)
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Base Diameter: Around 7.5 inches (19 cm)
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Material: Cast aluminum with a silver metallic coating
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Head Material: Synthetic drumhead
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Tuning System: Six-bolt internal tuning
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Approximate Weight: 8–9 lbs (4 kg)
Each drum is hand-polished and tuned before shipment, ensuring every instrument meets the highest standards of quality and sound performance.
Superior Sound and Tonal Range
The 17" Metallic Doumbek – SILVER delivers the hallmark sound that defines Egyptian percussion. Its aluminum body produces deep bass tones (“doom”) and sharp, cutting slaps (“tek”), creating a perfect balance between resonance and clarity.
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Doom (Bass): Full-bodied, low-frequency resonance ideal for rhythmic foundation.
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Tek (Highs): Bright, crisp tones that cut through melodies with precision.
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Ka (Off-beat): Subtle mid-range sound that adds dynamic texture.
Thanks to its synthetic drumhead, this darbuka maintains tonal stability across various climates—an essential feature for touring musicians or outdoor performances. The head responds sensitively to finger rolls, snaps, and slaps, allowing for expressive playing and accurate articulation.
Whether performing traditional Arabic rhythms such as Maqsum, Baladi, or Saidi, or experimenting with world fusion and contemporary beats, the SILVER doumbek offers unmatched tonal consistency.
Authentic Egyptian Craftsmanship
Unlike mass-produced instruments, the 17" Metallic Doumbek (Egyptian Tabla) is made by artisans who understand the cultural and acoustic nuances of traditional Egyptian percussion.
Each drum is carefully shaped, balanced, and fine-tuned by hand. The interior sound chamber is precision-crafted to amplify bass tones and enhance sustain. The smooth rim ensures comfort during long playing sessions, allowing performers to execute complex finger patterns effortlessly.
This model represents the finest aspects of Egyptian craftsmanship—where sound engineering meets artistic passion. It’s not just an instrument; it’s a continuation of Egypt’s rhythmic heritage, brought to life for the modern performer.
Perfect for All Skill Levels
The 17" Metallic Doumbek – SILVER from BellyDance.com is designed for musicians at every stage of their journey:
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Professionals: Appreciate its balance, power, and projection for stage and studio performances.
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Intermediate Players: Benefit from the drum’s responsive tone and reliable tuning system.
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Beginners: Enjoy a comfortable playing experience with a lightweight design and easy tuning process.
Its ergonomic size makes it easy to play seated or standing, and its well-balanced shape ensures comfort during extended sessions.
Tuning System and Maintenance
This darbuka is equipped with a six-bolt internal tuning system, allowing precise control over head tension and pitch. The system uses bolts positioned evenly around the drumhead to ensure uniform tensioning and perfect tonal balance.
Tuning Instructions:
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Use the included tuning key to adjust each bolt gradually.
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Turn bolts in small, even increments to maintain balance.
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Tap the head gently to test pitch and resonance after each adjustment.
The synthetic head is durable and easy to replace when necessary. Unlike traditional goat or fish skin heads, synthetic heads are unaffected by humidity and temperature fluctuations, providing consistent sound quality in any environment.
Maintenance Tips:
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Wipe the surface with a soft cloth after each session to remove fingerprints or dust.
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Avoid abrasive cleaners—mild soap and water are sufficient for occasional cleaning.
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Store in the included padded carrying bag to protect the metallic finish.
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Periodically check bolt tension to ensure consistent tuning.
Included Accessories
When purchasing from BellyDance.com, your 17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka – SILVER comes with essential accessories:
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Padded Carrying Bag: Protects your drum during travel and storage.
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Extra Synthetic Head: Ensures you have a spare for replacement.
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Tuning Key: Specifically designed for the drum’s six-bolt system.
These accessories make the package complete and ready to use immediately, whether you’re performing live or practicing at home.
The Aesthetic Appeal of Silver
The metallic silver finish of this darbuka symbolizes purity, balance, and professionalism. Its reflective surface captures and refracts light on stage, adding to the visual rhythm of every performance. Under spotlights or natural light, the drum becomes part of the visual choreography—shimmering as hands move across its surface.
The simplicity of silver complements any costume, décor, or performance theme, making it an ideal choice for belly dance musicians, stage performers, and recording artists who value both form and function.
The Heartbeat of Dance and Culture
This darbuka is not just a percussion instrument—it’s the heartbeat of Middle Eastern dance. From traditional Egyptian performances to modern fusion belly dance routines, the rhythmic language of the doumbek defines movement and emotion.
Dancers often synchronize with the distinctive doom-tek-ka rhythm, creating a dialogue between percussionist and performer. The 17" Metallic Doumbek – SILVER produces clear tones that are easy for dancers to follow, while its deep bass supports the energy of movement.
It’s a vital companion for:
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Belly dance troupes and solo performers
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Percussion ensembles and cultural bands
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Recording artists blending world and contemporary music
Every strike tells a story—of tradition, artistry, and connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this drum handmade?
A: Yes. Each 17" Metallic Doumbek is handcrafted by skilled artisans in Egypt, ensuring authenticity and superior sound quality.
Q: What makes the silver model different from other finishes?
A: The silver metallic finish provides a sleek, professional look while maintaining the same tone and structure as other models. Its reflective surface enhances stage presence.
Q: Can beginners use this drum?
A: Absolutely. The manageable size, responsive head, and lightweight aluminum body make it an excellent choice for new players.
Q: How should I clean the metallic surface?
A: Simply wipe it down with a soft cloth after use. Avoid chemical cleaners to preserve the polish and sheen.
Q: Can it be played outdoors?
A: Yes. The aluminum body and synthetic head are durable enough for outdoor use, though storing it in its padded bag afterward is recommended.
Why Choose BellyDance.com
BellyDance.com is a trusted name for authentic Middle Eastern instruments and performance accessories. They work directly with Egyptian craftsmen to ensure genuine imports that meet professional performance standards.
When you purchase from BellyDance.com, you’re not only getting an instrument—you’re investing in a piece of Egyptian culture, carefully selected for quality, sound, and beauty. Their focus on authentic materials, craftsmanship, and accessories ensures you receive a darbuka that will last for years of performances.
A Masterpiece of Sound, Art, and Tradition
The 17" Metallic Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) – SILVER from BellyDance.com perfectly bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. Its silver finish radiates elegance, while its handcrafted body delivers authentic Egyptian tone and power.
From the first strike, the drum speaks with clarity, depth, and life—echoing centuries of musical history and artistic expression. Whether performing under the spotlight, recording in the studio, or leading a cultural ensemble, this darbuka commands attention with its beauty, precision, and soul.
With its blend of craftsmanship, durability, and visual appeal, this drum stands as one of the finest choices for percussionists who seek the perfect combination of sound, art, and tradition.
