One of the most common questions we get from people considering the Group Soundbath Player™ training is about instruments, especially crystal singing bowls.
The big one we hear all the time when people are on a budget and just starting out is: “Can I just start with the cheap crystal bowl sets from Amazon?”
Yes, you can start there, but you may not want to, and ultimately you may end up spending more that way.
Low-quality vs. professional crystal singing bowls
Lower-quality bowls typically:
They are thinner and break more easily.
Have short sustain (the sound fades quickly once you stop playing)
They are harder to start playing and to maintain a consistent sound.
Their sound is less full and complex.
They reach a volume limit more quickly and don’t mix as well with gongs.
They are often only 4th-octave bowls, so you’ll need to order at least one 3rd-octave bowl for the course.
Professional-level bowls:
They are easier to play.
Have long sustain, making blending and transitions much smoother
Produce a full, room-filling sound.
Play loud enough to balance with gongs.
They are stronger and less prone to breaking.
Our bowl sets include the required octaves so you’ll have the right bowls for the course.
Most of our students who start with lower-quality bowls upgrade quickly. They are then stuck with bowls they don’t want to play. That doesn’t mean you can’t begin with lower cost crystal bowls, but you should understand how those choices will shape your experience and results.
How does this connect to your GSP™ registration choice?
If you know you’ll need instruments, GSP™ Pro or GSP™ Advantage usually makes the most sense.
Most online retailers charge the same prices for premium instruments. Our pricing is similar, and we do not inflate prices to offer a discount.
Students receive private discounts below what is commonly advertised elsewhere, which means you’re unlikely to find better pricing. The discounts are greater with the GSP Pro and Advantage options.
An added benefit with GSP™ Advantage
With GSP™ Advantage, you also receive a free in-person gong buying consultation at The Gong Room near Joshua Tree. If you’re considering a premium gong and can make it to our studio, this is an invaluable addition. You’ll be able to hear multiple gongs in person, feel the differences, and get guidance on choosing the one that truly fits your playing style and goals.
This consultation is available to GSP™ Essentials and Pro students for $300, and is included at no additional cost with GSP™ Advantage. Learn more about the consultation here.
Real-world pricing examples
Example 1: Premium setup
36” Gongland Sun Gong (made on request)
Large gong mallet
Pair of small mallets
Beyond™ set of 5 crystal singing bowls
Retail: $6,412
GSP™ Essentials: $6,127 (save $285)
GSP™ Pro: $5,698 (save $714)
GSP™ Advantage: $5,198 (save $1,214)
Example 2: Lower cost gong
32" Beyond™ Chau gong
Large gong mallet
Pair of small mallets
Beyond™ set of 5 crystal singing bowls
Retail: $2,911
GSP™ Essentials: $2,756 (save $155)
GSP™ Pro: $2,606 (save $305)
GSP™ Advantage: $2,106 (save $805)
As you can see with the above pricing example, Pro and Advantage options can save you quite a bit. They also include additional training, support, exam prep and guidance to help you play with confidence.
Note: The above pricing example does not include sales tax (if applicable), shipping, or other accessories you may need such as bags and a gong stand. Pricing varies depending on the exact instruments that you choose.
Our goal
Our goal is to help you choose the option that fits where you are now and where you’re headed. Whether you start with what you have or invest in professional instruments right away, understanding the differences allows you to make an informed decision.