AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Misc. Percussion 2026
The top pick is Black Swamp Percussion Anvil Gong 7,5"/19cm ($78). Kaufmann Wienerratsche III leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 58 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 17, 2026
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All Misc. PercussionTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Black Swamp Percussion Anvil Gong 7,5"/
19cm Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size7.5"
This little Anvil Gong from Black Swamp is a really cool addition to any percussionist's arsenal. It’s surprisingly versatile – you can get some really interesting bell tones, or hit it harder for a more anvil-like clang. It’s perfect for adding unique textures to orchestral, experimental, or even indie music setups where space is at a premium.
Pros
- Unique, textured soundscape with included rivets.
- Compact size makes it ideal for smaller percussion setups.
- Durable steel construction ensures longevity and resilience.
Cons
- Smaller size limits the overall volume and sustain potential.
- Steel construction can produce a harsher tone without careful technique.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 18.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$96 · Aug 14$78 now$78€69 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Black Swamp Percussion Anvil Gong 10,5"/
26,7cm Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size10.5"
This little Black Swamp Anvil Gong is a cool, unique addition to any percussion arsenal. It’s fantastic for adding unusual textures to orchestral, film scoring, or even experimental music. It's a relatively affordable way to get some really interesting sounds without a ton of space.
Pros
- Unique anvil-like tone blends bell-like clarity.
- Rivets offer intriguing textural variations and sizzles.
- Compact size makes it versatile for smaller setups.
Cons
- Smaller size limits overall volume and sustain.
- The included cord is basic; a better suspension is recommended.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 19.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$125 · Aug 14$100 now$100€89 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Black Swamp Percussion Anvil Gong 6,5"/
16,5cm Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size6.5"
This little Black Swamp anvil gong is a real character piece. It’s fantastic for adding unusual textures to orchestral or contemporary percussion, or for a unique color in a studio setting. The included rivets let you immediately dial in some really interesting sizzles – perfect for adding a bit of sonic spice.
Pros
- Compact size makes it ideal for smaller percussion setups and travel.
- Unique anvil-like tones offer a distinct, textural sound palette.
- Included rivets provide immediate opportunities for creative sound manipulation.
Cons
- Small size limits the overall volume and sustain achievable.
- The anvil sound, while unique, might not be universally desirable.
58AudioFu
Index↓ 12.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$89 · Aug 14$78 now$78€69 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Black Swamp Percussion Anvil Gong 9,5"/
24,1cm Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size9.5"
This little Black Swamp Anvil Gong is a fantastic addition to any percussionist's arsenal. It's surprisingly versatile, offering a unique blend of shimmering and metallic tones that you just don’t get from a standard gong or cymbal. Perfect for composers, film scorers, or anyone looking for something a little different to add texture and character to their music.
Pros
- Produces a unique, resonant tone blending bell-like clarity and anvil-like depth.
- Compact size makes it incredibly versatile for studio and stage use.
- Included rivets offer immediate textural possibilities for creative sound design.
Cons
- Small size limits the overall volume and sustain compared to larger gongs.
- The included rivets, while useful, can be a bit fiddly to manipulate initially.
58AudioFu
Index↓ 13.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$110 · Aug 14$96 now$96€85 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
These TreeWorks chimes are a solid choice for educators, small ensembles, and anyone wanting a bright, clear chime sound. The CordLoc system is a real upgrade over typical plastic cords, and the ash carrier feels really well-made. They’re a good value for the quality and craftsmanship you’re getting.
Pros
- Durable CordLoc cord eliminates common plastic cord failures
- T6 aluminum/titanium alloy bars offer a bright, sustained resonance
- Handmade white ash carrier provides excellent stability and a pleasing aesthetic
Cons
- The aluminum/titanium alloy produces a brighter tone, potentially less suited to darker orchestral passages
- Handmade nature means slight variations in bar size are possible, affecting tuning consistency
58AudioFu
Index↓ 3.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$145 · Aug 14$141 now$141€125 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Black Swamp Percussion Anvil Gong 8,5"/
21,6cm Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size8.5"
This little Black Swamp Anvil Gong is a real character piece. It's perfect for composers, film scorers, or anyone needing unique, textural percussion sounds. Don't expect a massive, resonant gong, but it's surprisingly effective for adding subtle, unusual colors to your tracks.
Pros
- Unique anvil-like timbre offers textural possibilities.
- Compact size makes it exceptionally versatile for smaller setups.
- Included rivets allow for controlled sizzle and dynamic effects.
Cons
- The smaller size limits its overall volume and projection.
- The included rivets might be a bit flimsy for heavy use.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 11.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$100 · Aug 14$89 now$89€79 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size8"
This is a solid walnut block tuned to D6. It is a simple, reliable piece for orchestral percussion. Ideal for players who need a standard D6 sound without extra features.
Pros
- Made from solid North American walnut wood
- Produces a precise D6 pitch
- Compact 2 3/8 inch square block shape
Cons
- No pickup or electronic output mentioned
- No stated weight for player comfort
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- Size4"
This is a solid, single-note block made of hard maple. It is small enough to fit in tight setups but sturdy enough to cut through a mix. Great for players who need a reliable C6 without extra cost.
Pros
- Made from hard maple for a solid core.
- Compact 2.75 inch by 2.75 inch body.
- Tuned to the specific C6 note.
Cons
- Price is higher than standard wood blocks.
- No pickup or electronic options listed.
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The Kaufmann Wienerratsche III is a beautifully made, authentic Austrian percussion instrument. It's perfect for orchestral percussion sections needing a unique coloristic effect, or for composers seeking a distinct, dry rattle. The quality of the build really shines through, making it a worthwhile addition to any serious percussionist's arsenal.
Pros
- Exceptional Austrian craftsmanship; evident in the tight tolerances.
- The linseed oil finish provides a warm, resonant tone and protection.
- CNC-milled rollers ensure consistent, reliable ratchet action.
Cons
- Limited dynamic range compared to more complex percussion instruments.
- The brass winch, while attractive, can tarnish with prolonged use.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$258 now$258€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Kaufmann Concert Whip is a beautifully crafted, compact instrument perfect for precision staccato accents in orchestral or contemporary settings. The ash wood delivers a clear, articulate sound, and the leather handle is a pleasure to hold. It's a fantastic option for percussionists needing a reliable, well-made whip at a reasonable price point.
Pros
- Ash wood provides a bright, crisp staccato sound
- Handmade Austrian craftsmanship ensures high build quality and durability
- Cowhide leather handle offers a comfortable, secure grip
Cons
- Limited tonal versatility compared to more complex percussion instruments
- Weight (500g) might be tiring for extended performances
All 58 misc. percussion
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Kaufmann P3L Concert Whip small/leatherKaufmann · 2 finishes43Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
- 12
Kaufmann P2L Concert Whip med./leatherKaufmann · 2 finishes43Stable$129€115$129€115Check ↗
- 13
Schlagwerk TreeWorks Chimes TRE35xoSchlagwerk · 2 finishes42Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 14
Black Swamp Percussion OV-CM Castagnet MachineBlack Swamp Percussion41↓ 7.2%$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 15
Grover Pro Percussion PMA-A AnvilGrover Pro Percussion41↓ 16.3%$375€333$375€333Check ↗
- 16
Kolberg 1190 Car Horns GershwinKolberg39Stable$1,166€1,036$1,166€1,036Check ↗
- 17
Kolberg 1550 Pop Cap simpleKolberg38↑ 4.2%$83€74$83€74Check ↗
- 18
Black Swamp Percussion Nickel Plated Rivets, CordBlack Swamp Percussion37Stable$16€14$16€14Check ↗
- 19
Rohema Concert Claves 27Rohema37↓ 12.2%$19€17$19€17Check ↗
- 20
Kolberg 1913P Sonagli RodKolberg37↑ 4.8%$73€65$73€65Check ↗
- 21
Black Swamp Percussion Overture SlapstickBlack Swamp Percussion37Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 22
Kaufmann P1H Concert Whip large/woodKaufmann37Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 23
Kolberg 1283R Claves Resonance BoxKolberg37↑ 4.5%$185€164$185€164Check ↗
- 24
Kolberg 1506SIE Hanlde Castagnets mIEKolberg37↑ 4.6%$206€183$206€183Check ↗
- 25
Black Swamp Percussion Pro Concert Castagnets Gren.Black Swamp Percussion37Stable$223€198$223€198Check ↗
- 26
Black Swamp Percussion PCC-CM Castagnet MachineBlack Swamp Percussion37Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 27
Black Swamp Percussion Pro Concert Castagnets PHBlack Swamp Percussion37Stable$250€222$250€222Check ↗
- 28
Kolberg 1506BIE Castanet Machine medIEKolberg37↑ 4.6%$255€227$255€227Check ↗
- 29
Kolberg 1506SEB Handle Castanets medEKolberg37↑ 4.8%$272€242$272€242Check ↗
- 30
Kolberg 1506BEB Castanet Machine medEKolberg37↑ 4.7%$327€291$327€291Check ↗
- 31
Kolberg 1745RH Ratchet w HolderKolberg37↑ 4.6%$334€297$334€297Check ↗
- 32
Kolberg 1551 Pop Cap automaticKolberg37↑ 4.6%$334€297$334€297Check ↗
- 33
Kolberg 1506SDT Handle Castanets mGRPKolberg37↑ 4.9%$340€302$340€302Check ↗
- 34
Kolberg 2275 papageno's fluteKolberg37↑ 4.6%$380€338$380€338Check ↗
- 35
Kolberg 1506BDT Castanet Machine medGKolberg37↑ 4.8%$397€353$397€353Check ↗
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Kolberg 2238 Bird Voice CockooKolberg37↑ 4.7%$652€579$652€579Check ↗
- 37
Kolberg 1470_5XL Power Block Set5Kolberg37↑ 5.8%$1,011€898$1,011€898Check ↗
- 38
Schlagwerk TreeWorks Chimes TRE555Schlagwerk36Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 39
Ron Vaughn W-1.4 Piccolo Wood Block G6Ron Vaughn35Stable$64€57$64€57Check ↗
- 40
Ron Vaughn W-1.5 Piccolo Wood Block F6Ron Vaughn35Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 41
Grover Pro Percussion Castanets GWC-3GGrover Pro Percussion34Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 42
Grover Pro Percussion PMA-B AnvilGrover Pro Percussion34Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 43
Playwood Slap Stick L whipPlaywood33Stable$78€69$78€69Check ↗
- 44
Playwood Ratchet RAT-15RPlaywood33Stable$78€69$78€69Check ↗
- 45
NGL Percussion Woodblock Ash 18cmNGL Percussion33Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 46
Schlagwerk TreeWorks Chimes TRE10dbSchlagwerk33↑ 7.2%$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 47
NGL Percussion Woodblock Nut 32cmNGL Percussion33Stable$335€298$335€298Check ↗
- 48
Kolberg 1380DP Glass Chimes SmallKolberg33↑ 13.5%$851€756$851€756Check ↗
- 49
Thomann Ceramic Chirping Bird BronzeThomann32Stable$3€3$3€3Check ↗
- 50
Terre Frog BuzzerTerre32Stable$5€4$5€4Check ↗
- 51
Chester Hand HornChester32↓ 1.3%$9€8$9€8Check ↗
- 52
Kolberg 1385DP Glass Chimes LargeKolberg32↑ 29.8%$1,079€959$1,079€959Check ↗
- 53
Schlagwerk TreeWorks Chimes TRE28Schlagwerk31↑ 10.7%$186€165$186€165Check ↗
- 54
Kolberg 1289 Claves Set Steve ReichKolberg31↑ 4.7%$556€494$556€494Check ↗
- 55
Kolberg 1470_8I WB Set InternationalKolberg28↓ 31.6%$843€749$843€749Check ↗
- 56
Kolberg 2050 Temple Block Set 5Kolberg22↑ 4.7%$809€719$809€719Check ↗
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Kolberg 1470PR5 Polyblock Set RebondsKolberg22↑ 4.9%$973€865$973€865Check ↗
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Kolberg 1470P8 Polyblock Set 8Kolberg22↑ 4.7%$1,373€1,220$1,373€1,220Check ↗
Misc. Percussion by the numbers
Measured across all 65 models we track, not a sample.
Median $206 — half of all misc. percussion here cost less.
median of 9 models · 4"–9.5"
How to choose the best misc. percussion
Material & Construction
This is huge. A cheap wood block might sound dull and lifeless, while a well-seasoned hardwood one will have a satisfying snap and resonance. Metal instruments need to be free from unwanted ringing or brittle tones. Think about how the material will interact with your mics if you're recording.
Articulation & Response
You want immediate, clear articulation. A sluggish instrument will bury itself in the mix. This isn't just about speed; it's about the quality of the sound produced with minimal effort. Even a simple shaker should respond evenly across its entire body.
Tuning & Consistency
Some instruments, like triangles and crotales, require precise tuning. Even with "untuned" percussion, you want consistent tone across multiple units if you're buying a set. A set of cabasas shouldn't have wildly different rattles - it's distracting.
Durability & Build Quality
Gigs are brutal. Instruments need to withstand travel and repeated use. Check for solid construction, secure fasteners, and materials that can handle a beating. A loose handle on a marimba mallet is a recipe for disaster.
Versatility & Sonic Character
Consider the range of sounds you can get from an instrument. Can you dampen it for a muted effect? Does it have a unique timbre that will cut through the mix? A single cowbell can be surprisingly versatile if you know how to use it.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're looking to spice up your percussion setup beyond the standard kit? Misc. percussion-that's everything from wood blocks to rain sticks to cabasas-can add a ton of character to a track or a live performance. It's easy to underestimate the impact a well-placed shaker or a properly tuned triangle can have, but trust me, it's the little things that often make the difference between a sterile recording and something that breathes. Let's break down what to look for when adding these extra textures to your sonic palette.
Don't chase the flashiest finish or the highest price tag. Often, the best miscellaneous percussion is about finding the right sound for your needs. Cheap instruments frequently use thin, brittle materials that sound deadened and lack character.
Spending a little more on well-made instruments from reputable makers will pay off in terms of both tone and longevity - especially if you're gigging regularly. Ultimately, listen with your ears, not your eyes.
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 65 misc. percussion 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 'practice' cabasa and a 'performance' one?
Practice cabasas often use thinner beads and a less robust frame, making them quieter and easier on the hands. Performance cabasas have more beads, a tighter rattle, and a sturdier construction for stage volume and durability.
How important is microphone placement for misc. percussion?
Crucially important. These instruments often sit under the main kit, so careful mic placement is vital to avoid muddiness. Experiment with close mics, room mics, and even overheads to capture the right balance of direct sound and ambience.
Can I use household items as misc. percussion?
Absolutely! Pots, pans, wooden spoons... creativity is key. However, be mindful of the sound quality and consistency. A well-crafted instrument will almost always sound better and be more reliable than a repurposed kitchen utensil.
I'm on a tight budget. What are the essential misc. percussion instruments to start with?
Focus on the basics: a wood block, a shaker, a triangle, a tambourine, and maybe a cabasa. These offer a wide range of textures without breaking the bank. Prioritize quality over quantity.
How do I prevent my misc. percussion from sounding 'cluttered' in a mix?
Less is often more. Use these instruments sparingly to add subtle accents and textures. Careful EQing, panning, and dynamic processing (compression or gating) are essential for clarity.
