I_e tried several tongue drums and this is by far the best. I am pleased with its quality and aesthetics. First, all 14 notes are in perfect tune and playable in all octaves. Second, the tone is more _ooden than metallic, so the vibrations from discordant notes don_ compete with each other. Third, the drum is tuned to C major, which is a convenient key for a variety of music styles. Fourth, the decorative rope weaving around the drum is tightly woven and secure, so it won_ fall off as it has on other drums I_e tried. Finally, the drum is beautifully designed. All in all, I highly recommend this drum; it will reward you with hours of pleasure each time you play it.