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Best Hurdy-Gurdies for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: September 6th, 2024

🎶Finding the perfect hurdy-gurdy can be a bit tricky because of the instrument’s unique quirks and the different levels of craftsmanship you encounter. Our guide aims to simplify things for you.

Whether you want a reliable starter instrument, a budget-friendly yet quality option, or a high-end model for advanced practice, we’ve got something for you.

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Overall Best: Sedo García – Sirena Model

The Sirena Model by Sedo García stands out as our top pick for 2024, thanks to its impeccable craftsmanship and remarkable value. Constructed from solid wood, this hurdy-gurdy produces a robust and resonant tone that appeals to both beginners and seasoned players. Its 2/2/2 string configuration offers excellent flexibility, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles. Priced around €1600, the Sirena Model may seem a bit steep, but its durability and premium sound quality make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their music.

Available at Amazon

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Runner-up: Radoslav Malisz – Catnip

Radoslav Malisz’s Catnip model is our runner-up choice, providing a balance of affordability and quality. At approximately $1200 USD, this 2/2/2 hurdy-gurdy impresses with its well-crafted keyboard and the inclusion of a padded gig bag for convenient transport. Although it utilizes plywood, its design excellence and well-thought-out key layout ensure a performance comparable to costlier models, offering great value for its price.

Available at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Nerdy Gurdy – Basic

The Nerdy Gurdy – Basic by Jaap Brand is our top budget pick, ideal for those seeking affordability without compromising on sound. This innovative instrument uses laser-cut and 3D-printed parts, priced at around €660 + VAT. Its 1/1/1 string configuration still manages to deliver a powerful and impressive sound, often rivaling more expensive counterparts in blind tests. Additionally, it’s available as a DIY kit for about €320, making it a fantastic entry point for new players willing to assemble their own instrument.

Available at Amazon

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Best for Beginners: Hurdy Gurdy Hub – Entry-Level Hurdy Gurdy

UGears Mechanical Models 3-D Wooden Puzzle - Mechanical Hurdy-Gurdy Musical Instrument

For beginners, the entry-level hurdy-gurdy from Hurdy Gurdy Hub offers a perfect combination of durability and rich sound. Designed with new players in mind, it is constructed from sturdy materials yet remains lightweight for easier handling. This model provides a reliable starting point for those embarking on their hurdy-gurdy journey.

Lowest at Amazon

$60.00 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$54.99 at Walmart

More Answers

Still curious about the UGears Hurdy-Gurdy Puzzle? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the UGears Hurdy-Gurdy sound when played?

The UGears Mechanical Hurdy-Gurdy is built to be an actual playable instrument. It can produce folk tunes or dance melodies like traditional hurdy-gurdys, but don't go in expecting concert-level sound. The manufacturer's product description explains that you crank a handle to make sound while pressing keys to vary the pitch. From our research, it seems the sound quality isn't quite on par with professional instruments. Assembling it requires stringing and tuning, and while it functions, the sound might be a bit high-pitched and not very resonant. This could be due to the wooden build and the strings provided in the kit. People have mentioned that swapping out the strings for [classical guitar strings](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dclassical%2Bguitar%2Bstrings%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or using better [rosin](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Drosin%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) can help improve the sound. Aside from the sound, this model offers a really cool building experience. It's perfect if you're into mechanical gadgets and music, and it looks amazing as a decorative piece once it's built. If you're thinking about using it for serious music sessions, though, remember it's more of a fun project to learn about this unique instrument. In a nutshell, the UGears Hurdy-Gurdy is a neat way to explore the mechanics and sounds of this ancient instrument. It's a great project for anyone who's curious and enjoys hands-on activities.

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What tools are needed to build the UGears Hurdy-Gurdy?

If you're thinking about putting together the UGears Mechanical Hurdy-Gurdy, you'll be happy to hear that the kit comes with everything you need. You only need to grab a few everyday items from home, like a [small utility knife](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsmall%2Butility%2Bknife%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and some fine sandpaper to smooth out rough edges. According to the manufacturer's product description, you won't need any glue, as the pieces are designed to snap together. So, it's a clean project to get into if you're not a fan of sticky messes. It's a bit like completing a complex puzzle where each piece just clicks into place. From what we found, a couple of extra tools could make your life easier. Some folks like to use [tweezers](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtweezers%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for the tiny bits and a [small hammer](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsmall%2Bhammer%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for gentle taps to ensure the pieces fit snugly. [Wax](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dwax%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) is also recommended for smoothing the movement of parts like gears and handles. Luckily, the wax usually comes in the kit, so unless you're planning on stocking up, you should be covered. As far as the musical side of the hurdy-gurdy goes, it does play tunes, but don't expect concert-quality sound. It's more about the fun of building and figuring out how it all works. From what we've gathered, people really enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of assembling it, and while the musical aspect is limited, the process is a big part of the enjoyment. So, with just a couple of basic tools, diving into building the UGears Hurdy-Gurdy can be an engaging and fulfilling hobby. Whether you're drawn to its look or the hands-on experience, it’s a great way to explore crafting and music in one neat package.

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How long does it take to assemble the UGears Hurdy-Gurdy?

The UGears Hurdy-Gurdy is this cool mechanical model that's also a musical instrument when you finish building it. You won't need any glue since it's designed with pre-cut pieces that fit together. It looks like a medieval hurdy-gurdy and is even playable, though, according to the manufacturer's product description, it's pretty basic sound-wise. As for putting it together, our research shows it usually takes between 5 to 10 hours. Some folks said that taking the time to sand and wax the pieces where suggested really pays off for smoother assembly. If you rush, you might end up with pieces that don't fit quite right or even break, but don’t worry too much—the kit has a few spare parts just in case. Now, when it comes to the musical side, keep in mind that it won't sound like a high-end, professional instrument. The strings are made of fishing line, and plywood doesn’t resonate like more traditional materials. Still, it's pretty fun to play simple tunes on it, and a lot of people find the building process itself enjoyable. In short, it's not going to replace a professional hurdy-gurdy, but it’s a neat piece to show off and a rewarding project if you're into puzzles and DIY stuff. If you like building things and don't mind a bit of a challenge, the UGears Hurdy-Gurdy could be a great fit for you.

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Best for Advanced Learners: Marco Gamarra – Tenor Hurdy Gurdy

Advanced learners will appreciate the Marco Gamarra Tenor model for its superior sound quality and ergonomic design. Priced at around €1725, this instrument offers exceptional tonal range and comfortable playability, making it well worth the cost. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the depths of hurdy-gurdy music and seeking a reliable, expressive tool as they progress.

Available at Amazon

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