AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Gongs for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Paiste 32″ Symphonic Gong ($1,849). Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 110 gives you the most for the money at $1,562. Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 140 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 59 models across 4 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size32"
This 32-inch Paiste Symphonic Gong is a powerhouse—it's not just a sound, it's an event. It's ideal for composers, film scorers, and percussionists looking for a truly enveloping, resonant tone. Be prepared to dedicate space and a robust stand to this beauty.
Pros
- Exceptional sustain and harmonic complexity due to Paiste’s bronze alloy.
- The large diameter (32 in) creates a truly immersive sonic experience.
- Paiste's renowned build quality ensures long-lasting durability and tonal consistency.
Cons
- The substantial weight (over 35 lbs) demands a sturdy, dedicated stand.
- The harmonic richness might be overwhelming for some minimalist or dry percussion styles.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,849 now$1,849€1,655 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight30 kg
This Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 115 is a serious piece of kit. It’s built for those needing a massive, resonant gong – think film scores, large-scale meditation spaces, or even therapeutic sound work. The size and construction give it a depth of tone you just won’t find in smaller, cheaper options.
Pros
- Deep, resonant tones ideal for orchestral and meditative use
- Handmade construction ensures unique sonic character and subtle variations
- Large 115cm diameter maximizes low-frequency projection and sustain
Cons
- Significant weight (approx. 30 kg) requires robust mounting and handling assistance
- Limited versatility compared to smaller gongs or cymbals – specialized application
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,785 now$1,785€1,598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight28 kg
This Thomann Wind Gong is a serious statement piece. It's built for creating expansive, cinematic soundscapes and is ideal for film composers, ambient artists, or anyone seeking a truly unique percussive voice. The sheer size and handmade nature make it a real sonic experience, but be prepared for a hefty investment and the need for a substantial stand.
Pros
- Massive, sustained resonance creates truly immersive and ethereal soundscapes.
- Handmade construction ensures unique tonal character and artisanal quality.
- Large 120cm diameter maximizes the gong’s potential for low-frequency vibrations.
Cons
- Significant weight (28kg) requires a robust and stable stand setup.
- The handmade nature means sonic variations exist between individual gongs.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,897 now$1,897€1,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight31 kg
This Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam is a serious instrument, built for those needing deep, resonant tones for film scoring, meditation, or therapeutic applications. Its large size and bronze construction deliver a truly substantial sound, but be prepared for a workout getting it set up – it's a heavyweight!
Pros
- Produces incredibly deep, resonant tones suitable for orchestral scoring.
- Handmade construction ensures unique tonal characteristics and visual appeal.
- Large 120cm diameter maximizes sustain and complexity of overtones.
Cons
- Its substantial weight (31 kg) demands a robust and dedicated stand.
- The handmade nature means tonal variation is significant; consistency is limited.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,232 now$2,232€1,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight33 kg
This Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam is a serious instrument – it's built for creating truly massive, atmospheric sounds. It's perfect for film composers, ambient musicians, or anyone seeking a deeply resonant and meditative experience. Be prepared for a commitment, both physically and sonically; this is a statement piece.
Pros
- Massive, resonant low frequencies ideal for orchestral scoring and soundscapes.
- Hand-hammered construction delivers a complex, evolving wash of sound.
- Large diameter (50in) provides exceptional projection and sustain.
Cons
- Significant weight (approx. 33kg) necessitates a robust and stable mounting system.
- Limited versatility; primarily suited for atmospheric and meditative applications.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,456 now$2,456€2,198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight33 kg
This Thomann Wind Gong is a serious statement piece. Its massive size and Wuhan bronze construction deliver a truly breathtaking wash of sound, perfect for film scoring, ambient soundscapes, or adding a huge, otherworldly element to live orchestral or ritualistic performances. It’s not something you’ll be casually tossing in a gig bag, though – this is a dedicated, premium-priced instrument.
Pros
- Massive, resonant fundamental tone with complex overtones.
- Handmade construction ensures unique character and tonal variation.
- Large 130cm diameter maximizes sustain and wash.
Cons
- The sheer size and weight (33 kg) makes handling and transport challenging.
- Limited tonal versatility compared to more complex percussion instruments.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,791 now$2,791€2,498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight38 kg
This Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam is a serious instrument, built for creating immersive sonic landscapes. Its sheer size and bronze construction deliver a truly captivating sound, perfect for film scoring, large-scale orchestral events, or anyone seeking a deeply meditative sound experience. Be prepared to invest in a sturdy stand, as this thing is a beast!
Pros
- Produces a remarkably deep, resonant tone with a wide dynamic range.
- Handmade construction ensures unique tonal characteristics and a level of craftsmanship.
- The large 52in diameter maximizes sustain and creates a wash of sound.
Cons
- The significant weight (38 kg) requires a dedicated, robust stand and careful handling.
- Its specialized sound profile may not be universally appealing or versatile.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,126 now$3,126€2,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight48 kg
This Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam is a serious instrument – a giant bronze disc capable of producing truly awe-inspiring sounds. It’s built for composers, sound healers, and anyone needing massive, low-frequency sonic textures. Be prepared to dedicate some space and muscle to handle it, but the sonic payoff is significant.
Pros
- Massive, resonant low-frequency tones ideal for orchestral scores and soundscapes.
- Hand-hammered construction delivers complex overtones and a uniquely organic feel.
- Wuhan’s bronze alloy provides a rich, dark timbre with surprising dynamic range.
Cons
- The extreme weight (48 kg) requires a dedicated, robust stand and two people to move.
- Its very focused sonic character limits versatility outside of atmospheric or meditative contexts.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,467 now$4,467€3,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight28 kg
This Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam is a serious instrument for those seeking truly profound, resonant tones. It's built for orchestras, sound healers, or anyone wanting to create immersive sonic landscapes – it's not a casual addition to a drum kit. The sheer size and weight demand respect and a dedicated space, but the resulting sound is truly captivating.
Pros
- Deep, resonant tones ideal for orchestral and meditative applications
- Handmade construction ensures unique sonic character and subtle variations
- Large 110 cm diameter maximizes low-frequency response and sustain
Cons
- Significant weight (approx. 28 kg) necessitates a robust and stable mounting solution
- Large size limits portability and storage space significantly
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,562 now$1,562€1,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Thomann Tam Gong is a serious statement piece. It's built for creating immersive soundscapes – think film scores, ambient music, or large-scale ritualistic performances. If you're after a truly massive, shimmering gong sound and have the space and resources to handle it, this is an impressive instrument.
Pros
- Massive, resonant low-frequency sustain ideal for meditative and cinematic soundscapes.
- Stainless steel construction provides a bright, shimmering overtone complexity.
- Handmade process ensures a unique tonal character and subtle variations.
Cons
- Significant weight makes handling and mounting challenging without proper equipment.
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific applications, less adaptable for diverse genres.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,120 now$2,120€1,898 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 59 gongs
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Thomann Wind Gong 100Thomann57Stable$1,241€1,111$1,241€1,111Check ↗
- 12
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 100Thomann57Stable$1,241€1,111$1,241€1,111Check ↗
- 13
Thomann Wind Gong 110Thomann49Stable$1,450€1,298$1,450€1,298Check ↗
- 14
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 105Thomann49Stable$1,338€1,198$1,338€1,198Check ↗
- 15
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 90Thomann57Stable$992€888$992€888Check ↗
- 16
Thomann Wind Gong 90Thomann57Stable$892€798$892€798Check ↗
- 17
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 85Thomann57Stable$837€749$837€749Check ↗
- 18
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 95Thomann49Stable$1,060€949$1,060€949Check ↗
- 19
Thomann Wind Gong 30Thomann64Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 20
Thomann Wind Gong 35Thomann64Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 21
Thomann Wind Gong 40Thomann64Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 22
Thomann Wind Gong 45Thomann64Stable$124€111$124€111Check ↗
- 23
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 40Thomann64Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 24
Thomann Wind Gong 50Thomann64Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 25
Thomann Wind Gong 55Thomann64Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 26
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 50Thomann64Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 27
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 60Thomann64Stable$333€298$333€298Check ↗
- 28
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 65Thomann64Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 29
Thomann Wind Gong 65Thomann64Stable$445€398$445€398Check ↗
- 30
Thomann Wind Gong 70Thomann64Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 31
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 70Thomann64Stable$546€489$546€489Check ↗
- 32
Thomann Wind Gong 75Thomann64Stable$556€498$556€498Check ↗
- 33
Thomann Wind Gong 80Thomann64Stable$620€555$620€555Check ↗
- 34
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 75Thomann64Stable$620€555$620€555Check ↗
- 35
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 80Thomann64Stable$744€666$744€666Check ↗
- 36
Thomann Wind Gong 20Thomann57Stable$32€29$32€29Check ↗
- 37
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 30Thomann57Stable$73€65$73€65Check ↗
- 38
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 35Thomann57Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 39
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 45Thomann57Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 40
Thomann Wind Gong 60Thomann57Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 41
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 55Thomann57Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 42
Thomann Wind Gong 15Thomann49Stable$25€22$25€22Check ↗
- 43
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 18Thomann49Stable$39€35$39€35Check ↗
- 44
Thomann Wuhan Tam Tam 25Thomann49Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
- 45
Dixon 10" China GongDixon49Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 46
Thomann Tam Gong 38" ESThomann49Stable$744€666$744€666Check ↗
- 47
Asian Sound Chin. Opera Gong Lower ToneAsian Sound46Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
- 48
Asian Sound Tamtam TT-20 PAsian Sound46Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 49
Asian Sound Tamtam TT-25 PAsian Sound46Stable$74€66$74€66Check ↗
- 50
Asian Sound Chin. Opera Gong Jing LuoAsian Sound46Stable$84€75$84€75Check ↗
Gongs by the numbers
Measured across all 59 models we track, not a sample.
Median $278 — half of all gongs here cost less.
median of 21 models · 10"–32"
median of 34 models · 1 kg–33 kg
How to choose the best gongs
Sustain & Overtones
Beyond just length, it's about what sustains. Cheap gongs often just drone; the best ones bloom with complex overtone series, offering harmonic possibilities. This is crucial for layering and creating evolving textures, especially in studio environments.
Fundamental Tone & Timbral Complexity
A simple 'boom' isn't enough. Advanced players want a fundamental tone with interesting harmonic content - a warm low-end thump with a shimmer in the mids, not just a muddy rumble. The ability to coax different timbres with mallet choice is key.
Playability & Response
This isn't just about hitting it hard. It's about responsiveness to subtle pressure and mallet angle changes. Can you coax out quiet, ethereal tones? Can you create dynamic swells? A gong that feels 'stuck' or unresponsive is frustrating and limits your creative options.
Size & Weight
Larger gongs generally offer more complexity, but also require more space and physical strength to control. Think about your gig setup and practice space - a massive Paiste Grand Gong is a beast to move around, but a smaller Wind Gong can be surprisingly expressive.
Material & Manufacturing
Bronze composition matters. Higher tin content (like in Paiste or some Gokoku gongs) tends to yield richer, more complex tones. Manufacturing precision impacts the gong's fundamental pitch and overtone series - inconsistencies lead to unwanted dissonances.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're past the novelty gong phase and actually want to use the thing musically. You're tired of the basic, one-note wash and craving something with complexity, nuance, and real dynamic range. This isn't about a cheap souvenir; it's about a legitimate instrument that can add serious depth to your soundscapes, whether you're layering textures in the studio or adding a ritualistic edge to a live set. Let's talk about gongs for players who actually want to play them.
Don't fall for the 'bigger is always better' trap. A smaller, well-made gong can be more musically versatile than a massive, poorly manufactured one. You're paying for the bronze composition, the hammering process, and the overall precision of the manufacturing.
Be prepared to spend a decent chunk of change - truly musical gongs aren't cheap, and corners are always cut on the budget end, usually in the form of a muddy, indistinct tone.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 59 gongs from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a Chinese gong and a Paiste gong?
Chinese gongs (especially those from Fujian) often have a more raw, earthy tone with a more prominent fundamental. Paiste gongs (and similar European-made models) tend to be more refined, with a more complex overtone series and a generally 'cleaner' sound - a trade-off, as the raw character of Chinese gongs can be appealing.
What kind of mallets should I use?
It's a whole world! Hard felt for a bright, cutting tone; soft felt for a warmer, more subdued sound; rope mallets for a trashy, chaotic vibe. Experiment! Different mallets will unlock entirely different sonic possibilities.
I'm on a budget. Are there any decent cheaper options?
You can find some playable gongs under $100, but be realistic - you'll be sacrificing complexity and sustain. Look for reputable brands like Donner, but expect a more one-dimensional tone. It's better to save up for a quality instrument.
How do I care for my gong?
Keep it clean! Fingerprints and grime dampen the tone. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is all it needs. Avoid harsh chemicals. Proper hanging is also crucial - a stable suspension minimizes unwanted vibrations.
Can I use a gong in a rock band?
Absolutely! Used tastefully, a gong can add a huge amount of atmosphere and texture. Just be mindful of volume - a gong can easily overpower a mix if you're not careful. Consider a smaller gong or a softer mallet for rehearsals.
