This Pro Series Doumbek/Darbuka drum (Egyptian Tabla) with inlaid Mother of Pearl is crafted in
Alexandria, Egypt. The designs are hand-inlaid on to a durable aluminum body which along with a clear synthetic head produce crisp sounding dums and teks. Includes padded carrying bag
with strap, extra synthetic head, and tuning key.
This Pro Series model is a New Generation 2.0 size which features a 18 inch height and a double beveled base which add projection to the sound.
Weight: Approx. 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
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.
18"?Pro?Series?Doumbek/Darbuka?(Egyptian?Tabla) with?Mother?of?Pearl?Mosaic?Inlays –?SALATIN
The SALATIN 18? Pro Series Doumbek/Darbuka with mother-of-pearl mosaic inlays brings professional sound, luxurious aesthetics, and Egyptian craftsmanship into a single instrument. For advanced percussionists, ensemble players, and serious educators, this drum blends visual elegance with the tone and performance required for serious work.
Elegant Craftsmanship & Unique Aesthetic
This doumbek features an 18-inch height (approximately 45.7 cm) and is built in Alexandria, Egypt — a region with centuries of percussion tradition. Its body is formed of high-grade aluminum, providing durability and resonant tone, and overlaid with hand-inlaid mother-of-pearl mosaic designs that elevate the instrument from mere drum to art piece.?
The mother-of-pearl inlay is more than decoration; it’s a nod to Egypt’s long cultural history of using shell materials in fine instruments and traditional craftsmanship. As one source notes: “In Egypt, it has been traditionally used to decorate and embellish musical instruments such as the darbuka drum.” arabinstruments.com
The base of the drum is double-beveled for added projection, which improves the tonal clarity and volume of the “doom” (bass) and “tek” (slap) sounds. The synthetic head enhances durability and tonal consistency across settings.
Superior Sound & Performance Features
The 18? Pro Series size gives the drum a commanding presence and deeper resonance compared to smaller models—making it ideal for ensemble use, stage work, and serious practice sessions. According to the product spec:
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Height: 18? (45.7 cm)
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Skin/head diameter: approx. 8.6? (22 cm) playable surface
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Overall head diameter: ~11? (28 cm)
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Bottom diameter: approx. 7.75? (19.7 cm)
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Tuning bolts: 6
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Approximate weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
These dimensions provide a strong bass foundation while offering crisp, articulate slap and rim sounds—especially with skilled technique. The double-bevel base aids projection, meaning the sound travels well in larger spaces and ensembles.
Materials, Construction & Tuning
Constructed with a durable aluminum shell, this doumbek is built to last and maintain consistent sound. The synthetic head resists ambient humidity and temperature variations better than traditional animal hides, making it more reliable for touring, rehearsal halls, or variable climates.
The tuning system uses six bolts around the bearing edge, enabling precise control of head tension and responsiveness. This means you can dial the tone to suit your playing style—whether heavy bass “doom” strokes or sharp “tek” accents. As noted in the listing, minor cosmetic blemishes may occur but will not affect sound quality.
Why This Model Stands Out
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Professional size (18?): Rare in doumbeks; offers deeper tones and more volume headroom than smaller models.
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Mother-of-pearl mosaic inlays: Visual artistry adds prestige, making this drum a statement piece on stage or in studio.
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Egyptian craftsmanship: Made in Alexandria, built on centuries of percussion tradition—enhancing its authenticity.
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Durability and accessories: Includes padded carrying bag with strap, extra synthetic head and tuning key per listing.
For serious percussionists or instructors who demand both sound quality and aesthetic appeal, this model delivers on both fronts.
Ideal Users & Use-Case Scenarios
This drum is particularly suited to:
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Ensemble and ensemble-lead musicians in professional or semi-professional settings.
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Studio players seeking top tonal quality and visual presence for recording and video.
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Educators and performance instructors who want an instrument that looks as good as it sounds when being taught or showcased.
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Serious hobbyists and devout students of Middle Eastern percussion who want a drum that will serve for years and grow with their technique.
Considerations Before You Buy
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Weight & size: At ~10 lbs, this drum is heavier than smaller doumbeks—check that you’re comfortable holding or mounting the instrument for extended periods.
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Tuning required: Although the head is synthetic and durable, you’ll still need to invest time in tuning to achieve optimal sound.
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Storage & transport: The size and weight mean you’ll want a good quality bag or case; thankfully, this model includes a padded bag.
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Price vs beginner models: Visual and material quality make it a higher-tier purchase; beginners may choose smaller models first for budget or portability reasons.
Maintenance & Care Tips
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Head tension: Use the six tuning bolts to adjust head tension regularly—checking for evenness across the head and avoiding over-tightening.
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Keep it dry: Although synthetic heads resist humidity, always dry the instrument after damp rehearsal spaces or outdoor use.
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Protect the inlay: The mother-of-pearl mosaic is beautiful but can scratch or chip—store the drum upright and avoid stacking other gear on top.
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Transport safely: Use the provided padded bag; consider additional hard case if touring frequently.
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Periodic inspection: Check shell integrity and base bevels for dents or deformities; minor damage may affect projection or tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 18? size too large for solo practice?
A: While larger than standard 17? doumbeks, the 18? size delivers superior bass and projection. For solo use, it may require more physical support or a stand—but many players appreciate the tonal richness.
Q: What does “Pro Series New Generation 2.0” mean?
A: According to the listing, the model incorporates a New Generation 2.0 sized design—including the double-bevel base—for improved projection and performance.
Q: Is the mother-of-pearl inlay purely decorative?
A: Yes—inlay is aesthetic. The tonal qualities come from the shell construction, head material, and tuning system. However the inlay also signals craftsmanship and care in manufacturing.
Q: Can I replace the synthetic head with an animal hide?
A: Technically yes, if the shell dimensions accommodate a hide and the hardware supports it—but synthetic heads are more stable for most users. Transitioning to a hide may require tuning and adaptation.
Final Remarks
The SALATIN 18? Pro Series Doumbek/Darbuka with mother-of-pearl mosaic inlays is a standout instrument for serious percussionists. With its professional size, rich tone, durable build, and elegant inlay, it merges performance and presentation. Whether you’re leading an ensemble, recording professionally, or teaching Middle Eastern percussion, this drum delivers both in look and in sound. For those ready to invest in top-tier equipment, this model is a compelling choice.
