MKS Bhargava large C3
The shrutibox MKS Bhargava large C3 is a heavier box with a particularly balanced, warm, full sound.
The large frame provides a much larger bellows volume as compared to smaller models, which permits an accurate dosing of air supply. In this way, the sound can be kept constant effortlessly even when three notes are played simultaneously. Additionally, the volume can be varied considerably wider and finer from evenly tender and low to constantly powerful loud. The larger resonating chamber provides moreover for a somewhat fuller overall sound. Despite its larger dimensions and heaviness, MKS Bhargava shrutibox large can still be taken around without any difficulty. Only if you have to carry a lot of other stuff and if you are travelling by public transport or by foot, shape and weight might become inconvenient.
Shrutiboxes are tuned to a fixed reference pitch, which can only be changed with significant effort. They can only be played together with instruments tuned to the same pitch. We offer Standard Tuning or 432 Hertz. Please choose what you prefer.
* The international concert pitch of 440 Hertz is the worldwide standard. This tuning is the most versatile and allows you to play with most musicians and instruments from all over the world.
* The lower tuning to 432 hertz is said to be relaxing and healing. It is popular in some spiritual circles, but cannot be used together with instruments tuned to standard pitch.
* Detailed information on tuning here.
Can be played with Bowring foot pedal.
Sound sample MKS Bhargava large C3
- octave in C major scale
- three-note chord C-E-G
13 chromatically tuned notes from c to c' (C3 to C4 in scientific terms); frame made of solid teak wood; surfaces with silk mat synthetic varnish; side parts made of laminated wood; feet, handle and latch made of metall; valves made of plastic; bellows made of cardboard with leather blockings; including sturdy bag.
Our MKS Bhargava shrutiboxes are crafted in small, artisanal workshops in the Kolkata area. Since 1994, we have established high quality standards and have continuously refined them in close collaboration with our partner Monoj Kumar Sardar (MKS). Following the death of Monoj Kumar Sardar in 2025, the musical instrument wholesaler Naresh Bhargava took over on-site quality control and export operations for us. Since then, they come with the Bhargava label and we sell them under the name MKS Bhargava.
This shrutibox model has 13 chromatic notes from c to c' (C3 to C4 in scientific terms). Each of the twelve halftones occurs at least once in this range. To achieve a full sound, an additional fifth or fourth up or down can be played together with each note, offering multiple possibilities of tonics and harmonies.
This shrutibox is tuned in equal temperament to the western concert pitch a - either with 440 Hertz standard or with 432 Hertz. However, shrutiboxes are not digital instruments - room temperature and blowing pressure influence the actual pitch of the sound. This is why the shrutibox can sometimes sound slightly higher or lower. The difference is usually so small that even trained ears will not notice it.
We are happy to fulfill special tuning requests on request for an additional charge.
Measure: 41 x 33 x 9 cm, weight: 4.4 kg
Each instrument is individually hand-crafted and might differ from our description.