Bastl Instruments have announced the Kalimba, a new desktop instrument that combines physical modelling, FM synthesis, touch control and motion sensing in a compact standalone design inspired by the traditional kalimba.
Having been in development for more than three years, the instrument is based around 12 touch- and velocity-sensitive metal tines, with internal microphones capturing plucks, knocks and other physical interactions to excite the sound engine. Bastl say the instrument is designed to be approached more like an acoustic instrument than a conventional synthesizer, with expressive gestures and physical movement forming a key part of the playing experience.
The Kalimba combines FM synthesis with stereo digital resonators and physical modelling, alongside an onboard accelerometer that can influence sound and modulation through movement and rotation of the device itself. Additional touch points on the front and rear panels provide control over pitch slides, timbral changes, sustain functions and assignable performance parameters.
The instrument also includes a built-in looper, arpeggiator, effects section and preset system, with onboard processing including delay, reverb, chorus, distortion, filtering and modulation effects. Users can work with custom tunings and scales, while MIDI and analogue clock connectivity allow the Kalimba to integrate with external hardware and software setups.
Connectivity includes stereo audio output, MIDI over TRS and USB-C, analogue clock I/O and USB-C charging and firmware updates. The instrument also features a built-in speaker, rechargeable battery and bundled carry case.
According to Bastl, extensive testing with artists including Oliver Torr and Never Sol helped shape the final instrument design and workflow.
Pricing & Availability
The Bastl Kalimba is launching initially via a Kickstarter campaign from 7 May to 6 June, with Super Early Bird pricing starting at €389. The first production batch is expected to ship in December 2026, with wider retail availability planned for the first half of 2027.
bastl-instruments.com/instruments/kalimba
Bastl Instruments will also be demonstrating Kalimba at Superbooth 2026 in Berlin at booth O385.
