SWD Sound Watching Drum Tongue Drum 18" 9 Notes - C Akebono

Historical Context and Positioning Within the Range

The SWD (Sound Watching Drum) belongs to the large family of tongue drums, also known as hank drums or tank drums. Here, the approach is decidedly high-end and artisanal: each instrument is progressively shaped, hammered, and tuned to achieve a consistent response, excellent tuning stability, and immediate musicality. The C Akebono 9-note model offers a harmonic palette particularly suited to contemplative playing and airy compositions.

Who This Drum/Tongue Drum Is For

This tongue drum is suitable for beginners as well as intermediate and advanced musicians seeking an expressive instrument that is easy to handle and rich in nuances. The Akebono range is ideal for relaxation music, meditation, cinematic atmospheres, sound healing, and music therapy. Thanks to its note layout, it encourages smooth and melodic sequences, perfect for improvisation as well as gentle accompaniment (voice, bowls, light percussion, acoustic instruments).

Features and Innovations

The SWDrum is made from a stainless steel sheet selected for its durability and ability to develop a broad vibration. The laser cutting of the tongues ensures a precise and consistent base, then each surface is hand-hammered to finely adjust the response, dynamics, and balance between notes. The tuning is done progressively, aiming for accuracy of each note and maximum resonance. In playing, you can alternate between a more organic attack with hands and a rounder, more controlled sound with soft rubber mallets.

Sound Characteristics

Stainless steel provides a sound character that is both clear and enveloping: the attack remains distinct, the note opens quickly, and the resonance extends with a naturally singing sustain. The hand hammering work plays a crucial role in the sound texture: it helps refine the vibration, balance the volume between tongues, and gives a more "alive" sensation under the fingers, especially appreciated in soft playing.
In C Akebono, the SWD offers a harmonic color conducive to introspection: the intervals invite repetitive patterns, soothing ostinatos, and simple yet very expressive melodies. Whether the instrument is placed on the lap or on a padded stand, you enjoy a warm diffusion, ideal for filling the space without harshness, whether in relaxation sessions, studio work, or intimate acoustic performances.

Technical specifications

Number of blades	9	Depth	18 "
Instrument size	Large	Frequencies	440 Hz
Category	handheld	Color	Brown
Type	tongue drums	Finishing	Aged
Material	steel	Diameter	47 cm

Tuning	C Akebono	Finish	each surface hand-hammered
Number of Notes	9	Playing Modes	hands or soft rubber mallets
Notes	C F G Ab C Db F G Ab	Position	on the lap or on a padded stand
Location	near Naples, Italy	Recommended Uses	relaxation music, music therapy instrument
Manufacturing	designed, hammered, and tuned by hand	Height	18 cm
Artisan	Massimo Tirino	Weight	4.5 kg
Cutting	tongues laser-cut	Important	la garantie ne couvre pas le désaccordage de l'instrument