Each Newlam kalimba is pre-tuned for accurate intonation before it reaches you. Therefore, tuning the kalimba yourself requires some knowledge and experience. We recommend waiting until you fully understand the kalimba before attempting to tune it.

The Newlam Kalimba isn’t just an instrument—it's your gateway to a world of musical creativity. Each Kalimba arrives pre-tuned, so you can start making beautiful music the moment it’s in your hands. No fuss, no wait—just dive right in and strum away!

But if you’re the type who loves to personalize things, or you’ve got a sharp ear that craves a custom sound, there's also a whole world of fine-tuning to explore. Here’s how to bring out the best in your Newlam Kalimba:

Note: Keeping your Kalimba in tune is key to making beautiful music, but tuning can be a bit tricky. Over-tuning can damage the tines, so we recommend waiting until you're comfortable with your Kalimba before diving into tuning. There are plenty of resources online to help you get the hang of it later on.

Pre-Tuned and Ready to Play

At Newlam, we take pride in making sure each Kalimba sounds perfect right out of the box. Our skilled technicians carefully tune every tine (those metal bars that create sound) so that when you get your Kalimba, every note rings clear and true. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned pro, you can start playing your favorite tunes without any extra effort.

The Fun of Fine-Tuning

If you’re ready to take things up a notch, customizing your Kalimba’s tuning can open up exciting possibilities. Popular apps like insTuner (for iOS) or gStrings (for Android) can be your best friends here. These easy-to-use apps help you find the pitch of each tine, making fine-tuning a breeze. It’s all about creating the exact sound that speaks to you.

A small hammer: Use one designed for delicate tasks, or a small rubber mallet for better control.

Patience and a good ear: Tuning takes time, practice, and attention. Make small adjustments, and listen carefully to each note.

Tuning Tips

Even the tiniest adjustments can make a big difference. Here’s the golden rule for tuning:

Tap the tine towards the bridge to lower the pitch. Think of the bridge as a hinge—tapping closer to it loosens the tension, making the tine vibrate slower and produce a lower sound.

Tap the tine away from the bridge to raise the pitch. Tapping further from the bridge tightens the tension, making the tine vibrate faster and creating a higher note.

Take It Slow

The secret to good tuning is to start small. Use gentle taps with your hammer, and listen carefully after each one. It’s always better to make gradual adjustments—you can always keep tuning, but it’s tough to undo if you go too far too fast.

Endless Musical Adventures

With your pre-tuned Newlam Kalimba, plus the option for custom tuning, you have a super-versatile instrument at your fingertips. Play well-known melodies, try out different tunings, or come up with your own unique soundscapes. The possibilities are endless, and your journey with the Newlam Kalimba is just getting started!