The Aloka Set

Aloka's signature set. Every bowl is tuned in just intonation in the key of D, with A at 432 Hz: each note is a whole-number ratio of the root, so the intervals ring pure. The low D sits at 144 Hz, its fifth A at 216 Hz, and the high D at 576 Hz.

Two octaves of D major rise from low D. Beneath them, a low A, B and C♯ lead down into the root, giving the set a deep floor to start from and return to.

The bowls are chosen for each other, so the set plays as one instrument.

Pitch is an art and a science

Crystal bowls are made by hand, and each one can sit a few cents above or below its exact pitch. That's part of its character, and it can be adjusted. The simplest way is water tuning: a little water in the bowl lowers its pitch, so a bowl that sits sharp can be brought into step with the rest of a set, by ear or with a tuner.

Shipping

Made to order and shipped straight from the maker. Most bowls arrive in 2–3 weeks.