The santoor, a beautiful trapezoidal hammered dulcimer, offers a rich and resonant sound. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just beginning your musical journey, selecting the right santoor is crucial for a fulfilling playing experience. This guide will help you navigate the options and find an instrument that suits your needs.
- Quality Persian 9 Kharak Santoor
- Tuning: G-Scale 90 * 26.5 * 7 cm
- Walnut wood, Strings: Brass And Bronze
- Net Weight: 2.90 kg (2.80 ~ 3.10 kg)
- It comes with hard case , extra of strings, two hammers and the tuning wrench
- Quality Persian Santoor NAS-202
- Tuning: G-Scale 90 * 26.5 * 7 cm
- Walnut wood, Strings: Brass,Steel,
- It comes with hard case , extra of strings, two hammers and the tuning wrench
- Persian Santoor SAS-303 | Goldar Model
- Maker: Sadeghi
- Wood: Walnut (30 Years Old)
- Tuning G Scale
- It comes with Hard Case, Hammers (Mezrab), Tuning Key, Extra Strings
- Santoor Soap contains the extracts of Turmeric and sandalwood which is perfect for skin
- Quantity - 3 bars of 100 grams each
- Consists of herbal ingredients which is beneficial for any skin type
- It not only nourishes the skin but also leaves the skin refreshingly fragrant
- Usage: Lather and apply generously to the skin and then gently massage. For best results, work up a rich lather and leave for 2 minutes before wash
- With SKin SOfteners
- Sandal & Turmeric
- Maker: Sadeghi
- Wood: Walnut
- It comes with felt installed
- Tuning: SOL (G) Tuning
- It has 2 stamps ( One of them inside)
- Maker: Hamid Mousavi
- It comes with: Hard case Extra Strings Two hammers Tuning wrench
- Quality: 625G (Each 125G)
- Item Form: Solid
- Santoor Sandal And Almond Milk Soap Hydrates And Moisturizes Your Skin To Have A Glow Like A Bride
- Great Solution For Problems Such As Blackhead, Acne And Skin Allergies
- Has Antimicrobial Properties, Making It A Popular Herbal Antiseptic For Treating Minor Skin Abrasions
- Adjustable | Fits all sizes of Persian Santoors. | Soft foam arms and backrest to protect your Santoor
- Protect your Santoor Soft EVA foam arms Stands your Santoor avoid scratches; 3 Metal Tripod Base securely support your Santoor. | The rubberized feet on the Santoor stand mean that this Santoor holder will remain stationary on any floor type...
- Minimum height 68 cm - Maximum height 114 cm
This article is part of our complete guide Arts & Crafts — browse all our comparisons and buying guides.
Last update on 2026-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Choose the Best Santoors
Understanding Santoor Construction
Santoors vary significantly in their construction, which directly impacts their sound and playability. Key components to consider include the wood used for the soundboard and base, typically walnut or rosewood, known for their tonal qualities. The number of bridges, often ranging from 9 to 12 pairs, influences the instrument's range and complexity. Examine the craftsmanship for smooth edges and secure fittings, as these indicate a well-made instrument.
Types of Santoors
There are generally two main types of santoors to consider: beginner and professional models. Beginner santoors are often more affordable, designed for ease of learning with a simpler string setup and robust construction. Professional santoors, on the other hand, feature higher-quality woods, more intricate designs, and a wider tonal range, catering to experienced musicians seeking nuanced sound.
String Material and Tuning
The strings on a santoor are typically made of steel, though some variations may use gut or nylon. Steel strings provide a bright, clear tone and are durable. Tuning is a critical aspect of santoor playing. While standard tuning patterns exist, understanding the specific tuning for the model you're considering is important. Some instruments may come pre-tuned, while others require initial tuning by the user.
Accessories and Maintenance
When purchasing a santoor, consider what accessories are included or available. Essential accessories often include mallets (or 'mezrab'), a tuning key, and a protective case. High-quality mallets are vital for producing the desired sound. Regular maintenance, such as keeping the instrument clean and storing it properly, will ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Choosing Based on Musical Style
Your intended musical style should also guide your choice. For classical Indian music, a santoor with a wider range and nuanced tonal capabilities is preferred. If you plan to explore fusion or contemporary music, you might look for an instrument with a slightly different tonal character or string configuration. Consider listening to recordings of santoors used in various genres to get a feel for the sound you desire.
