Vibraphones

The vibraphone was invented in 1916 by Hermann Winterhoff and was first commercialized in 1922 by the Deagan company under the name "vibraharp." It gained popularity in 1924 through radio recordings that introduced it to the general public. From then on, musicians' enthusiasm for this instrument continued to grow.

The vibraphone is a percussion instrument composed of several essential elements:
The Keyboard
The vibraphone features bars arranged on two levels, but unlike the marimba and xylophone, they are all positioned on a single plane. These bars are typically made of metal, usually an aluminum alloy, which produces a softer sound than steel.
Most bars are silver or gold, with either a matte or glossy finish. However, some manufacturers push the boundaries by offering bolder colors such as bronze, red, or blue.
As with other keyboard percussion instruments, the length of the bars decreases as the pitch increases. The vibraphones range typically extends from 3 to 4 octaves.

The Resonators
Located beneath the bars, the resonators are vertically arranged metal tubes that amplify the sound. Their shape and length vary depending on the model and manufacturer.

The Frame
The frame is the structure that supports both the keyboard and the resonators. It can be made of wood or metal, with either a fixed or adjustable height to accommodate the needs of musicians.

The Pedal and Damper
The vibraphone is equipped with a damping system located beneath the bars. This mechanism allows musicians to reduce harmonics or mute the sound. It is controlled by a pedal, which operates similarly to a piano pedal. When pressed, the pedal releases the bars, allowing them to resonate freely.

The Motor
Some models include an electric motor placed beneath the keyboard, creating a vibrato effect by opening and closing rotating fans inside the resonators. This system gives the vibraphone its distinctive sound, with a modulation effect particularly appreciated in jazz.

A Versatile Instrument
The vibraphone is played with one or two mallets in each hand. Various types of mallets allow musicians to modify the sound and explore a wide range of tonal nuances. Although highly popular in jazz, the vibraphone also remains a staple in classical orchestras.

Rythmes & Sons offers a selection of vibraphones from the most renowned brands on the market, including Adams, Concorde, Musser, Yamaha, and Marimba One.

To ensure optimal protection for your instrument, we also provide custom-made covers, carrying bags, and flight cases.

Rythmes & Sons specializes in the repair and maintenance of Vibraphones. We work on all types of instruments, regardless of their brand or age. With our workshop and extensive stock of spare parts, we guarantee custom repairs, fast service, and optimal quality. Contact us today for a diagnosis or a free quote!

For any inquiries or to request a free quote, contact our sales team!