Egyptian: Also known as "Darbuka" or "Sombaty." They are slightly larger and heavier, with rounded edges on the rim to prevent hand injuries, and are known for their deep, powerful bass sound (Dum).
Turkish: Traditional toubelekia with a flat rim and visible external tuning screws. They produce a more “metallic,” sharp, and piercing sound (Tak), ideal for fast finger soloing.
Arabic: Traditional medium-sized percussion instruments that produce a balanced sound with full bass and clear treble, suitable for a wide range of Eastern music.
Aluminum: The most popular and practical choice. They are durable, affordable, easy to tune with a key, and produce a strong, clear sound.
Cast Iron: Cast iron toms, with a characteristic embossed, rough texture (usually in black or gray), offering exceptional sturdiness and a very full, stable bass.
Synthetically: Instruments made of fiberglass or plastic, which are extremely lightweight and are not affected by humidity or temperature changes.