I know there are several people who are looking to buy doumbeks in time for the holidays. i have been trying to locate some, but have been unable.
In order to facilitate delivery in time for gift-giving, I recommend the following link at Mid-East.com:
http://www.mid-east.com/items.asp?Cc=DoumAlex&iTpStatus=0&Tp=&Bc=
Any of the full-size drums on this page are excellent for beginners. I would not recommend the ones labeled "small" (8.5x11) unless it's for someone under 5-6 years old.
As you can see there are a range of prices for all budgets. A higher price gets you a better looking and sounding instrument, but any of these are an acceptable quality of sound.
the company is based in Melbourne, Fl and the usual delivery time is under a week, allow more time for extra holiday business.
Please forward this to anyone you know who is interested.
If you need help deciding on an instrument, please feel free to call me (Dave) at
256-529-2891 or email me at this address.
Thanks!
-Dave
P.S.: I am not affiliated with Mid-East but I find their products to be of consistent quality for something produced in Egypt. Your instrument may need to be set up, tuned, and "tweaked" upon arrival, and I can help with that.