Robert van Sice marimba mallets
Designed by Robert van Sice, this series of yarn wound marimba mallets that virtually eliminates the sound of bar contact. All mallets in the series are available with maple and rattan handles, which provide excellent feel and control at extended intervals. A special interlocking stitch pattern maintains the integrity of the head. The mallets are available with rubber or synthetic cores: Rubber core models (11-16) are mono-tonal; synthetic core models (21-26) are multi-tonal.
Mono-tonal
The mono-tonal mallets are designed to produce a consistent, singular tone across the dynamic range. This means that whether you're playing softly or loudly, the mallet will produce a similar tone quality, without much variation in the sound color or timbre.
M11/R11
Very soft. For a warm, round sound that is perfect for low register chorales.
M12/R12
Soft. Produces a broad sound with tremendous projection that is dark, but not muffled.
M13/R13
Medium soft. A general mallet that covers the lower four octaves of the marimba.
M14/R14
Medium. The most popular model in the series, this mallet covers the entire range of the marimba and produces a singing sound that is full of life.
M15/R15
Medium hard. Bright, but not to the point of "xylophone-like" brilliance.
M16/R16
Hard. When extreme cutting power and a sharp edge are required.
Multi-Tonal
The multi-tonal mallets are designed to produce different tones depending on how hard they strike the bars. At softer dynamics, they might produce a warmer, more mellow tone, while at louder dynamics, they might produce a brighter, more cutting tone.
M21/R21
Very soft. Produces a heavy, dark sound. Perfect for use in the bass position.
M22/R22
Soft. An ideal mallet for pieces such as the Bach Cello Suites.
M23/R23
Medium soft. A very versatile mallet that covers the entire instrument.
M24/R24
Medium. The most popular mallet in the series. Extraordinary range of color, which is easily manipulated by the performer.
M25/R25
Medium hard. This is the most expressive mallet of the series and is an ideal choice for the modern marimba repertoire.
M26/R26
Hard. For those moments where the player needs maximum cutting power and edge to the sound.