What Kind of Darbuka Should I Use?
The most important thing is that your darbuka has a rounded head as opposed to the kind that has the pegs on the outside. There are 2 choices in this style: The metal Alexandria style and the natural skin clay drum:
Metal Alexandria Style Darbuka with Plastic Skin
The metal “Alexandria Style” darbuka drum with a plastic head is the most popular kind darbuka played throughout the middle east.
They are reliable, durable, easy to carry and the sound is crisp and ice-like.
You can get this style drum in various sizes
Baby Size 4 Peg- This is what Raquy usually plays - great for soloing.
Standard 6-Peg- This is what most darbuka players use
Simbati -nice and heavy for professional players
Dahlola more a bass-y sound
CLICK HERE to purchase Raquy's signature drum - the exact model that she uses on all her recordings and videos.
Clay Darbuka w Natural Skin
In the last 20 years with the new split hand technique the clay darbuka with natural skin has made a comeback.
These drums have a gorgeous tone and big range of sound.However they are usually heavy, fragile and the sound changes with the weather.
Here are some links of recommended clay darbukas:
https://www.heathermcqueenstudio.com/
https://sonikapercussion.com/product-category/collection/clay-darbuka/
https://www.instagram.com/descargapercussion/