Meinl KA9WW-BK Wah-Wah Kalimba

I used this instrument in every possible way, and played it for the production of different kinds of music. It just sounds good.

Pros & Cons

The sound and material quality of this instruments is very good for its price. The release of the sound at each hit on the tines is long and gives a calming and harmonious sensations. The screws of the z-bracket are easy to adjust for fine tuning. The box hole is different from traditional kalimbas, but it allows you to create a wah-wah effect that sounds pretty good. The long decay of the sound allows the player to make long and precise wah-wah sounds. Put a reverb on it and you are good to go. Therefore, the box hole adds more possibilities to the instrument than traditional kalimbas.

The kalimba fits good in an adults hands. The only remark I have for this one is that the outer black part of the instrument is too polished, and can cause the instrument to slip. Most of the time the slipping is prevented because of the moistre on or hands.

Price

At first 49euro might sound too much, but it's worth every penny.

What wah-wah?

The wah-wah element of this product is so unnoticeable, it's pointless. I don't recommend buying this product for that feature. Nice idea - just doesn't work against clothes.

Not sturdy

My equipment gets lots of use, so maybe I should have expected the tongues to get loose and lost over time. I didn't expect it though - so was a bit disappointed. If you're not sharing this around and you keep it in a box when you're not using it, expect it to last nicely.

Save your money

I expect you can find a better instrument for the same money. Search for Kalimba, Mbira and Sansula. I play a £250 Mbira now.