What Are the Most Significant Differences Between the Xylophone and the Vibraphone?

When it comes to knowing your musical instruments, it can be hard to figure out all the similarities and differences associated with instruments that are typically known to be extremely similar. For example, those who don’t know much about instruments will not fully understand the difference between a ukulele and a banjo, and what makes them so different from classic guitars.

 

Along the same lines, xylophones and vibraphones are often referred to in similar contexts, but they are in fact very different musical instruments.

 

The historical differences between the two instruments are very significant right from the start. While the first vibraphone was developed as late as the early 1920s, xylophones were around for much longer. In fact, the earliest evidence of their existence dates back to 9^th century Africa and Asia.

 

Also, the vibraphone’s construction is somewhat more intricate. It features aluminum bars that are a dead giveaway when compared to basic xylophone. Additionally, the bars used in the construction of xylophones are made of rosewood or padak; although lately most manufacturers have also taken up fiberglass components to ensure that the sound quality is superior.

 

While xylophones produce a crisper and richer sound, vibraphones have a much more mellow and damp sound. Depending on what you need them for, both instruments can sound quite beautifully, and it’s ultimately up to your own personal choice which one you prefer.  If you are interested in learning to play an instrument of any sort, the best place to start is at a percussion rental store, so you can rent an instrument to see if you enjoy it, before buying an expensive one.

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