Size guide
Choosing a size.
Diameter is a useful starting point, but it is only one influence on how a handmade instrument sounds and how it fits your practice or space.
Singing bowls, by diameter
| Diameter | Weight | Sustain | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5–6 in | 350–850 g | 10–20 s | High, bright |
| 7–8 in | 0.7–1.5 kg | 15–30 s | Mid-high, balanced |
| 9–10 in | 1.1–2.5 kg | 20–40 s | Mid-low, fuller |
| 11–12 in | 2.4–4 kg | 30–55 s | Deep, resonant |
| 13–16 in | 3.5–9 kg | 40–75 s | Very deep, physical |
These ranges are indicative, not guaranteed. Weight, wall profile, rim formation, hammering and playing method also affect the finished sound, and a given diameter does not guarantee a specific note. Each instrument is measured individually.
Gongs
Gong guidance.
Gongs are large-format instruments and are chosen differently from bowls. Consider diameter, weight, how the instrument will be suspended, the mallet used, the surrounding space, safe handling and the wall or stand it will hang from. As with bowls, individual response varies from piece to piece.
| Diameter | Face | Approx. weight |
|---|---|---|
| 22 in | 559 mm | 4.5–6 kg |
| 32 in | 813 mm | 9.5–12 kg |
| 36 in | 914 mm | 13–16 kg |
- Suspension: two deburred holes and a braided hanging cord are supplied.
- Mallet: a hardwood-handle felt mallet is supplied; a stand is available separately.
- Space and handling: allow room for the instrument to move freely, and mount it securely.
ANURAVA Knowledge
Choosing a size
Choosing a BowlWhat size singing bowl should I buy?How to choose a singing bowl size by use, sound character and weight. Covers why two bowls of the same diameter can sound completely different.Sound & AcousticsSinging bowl size, weight and pitch explainedSee how geometry and mass influence, but do not fix, pitch.Sound & AcousticsWhy same-size singing bowls can sound so differentWhy singing bowl size does not determine pitch: how thickness, wall profile and mass interact, and what size actually tells you.