With every instrument in the percussion world, you always have multiple choices of which implement to use to get the sounds you are looking for in your performing ensembles. Today, we look a the two Grover Percussion mallets designed specifically for the chimes. The two mallet options offer a good balance and can work well in many musical settings. Let’s take a look below at the similarities and differences between the two models.

Grover Pro Percussion PM-3

The PM-3 model is the smaller of the two chime mallets offered by Grover Pro Percussion. Made with high-density PVC, the mallet head features dual surfaces to meet the demands called for in the musical repertoire of todays percussion world. One side has a hard surface for more aggressive playing while the other side features a softer rubber surface for more subtle playing with less articulation. This model (PM-3) has a weight of 130 grams and features a 1.5″ head size, which is the smaller of the two mallet options.

Grover Pro Percussion PM-4

The PM-4 model is the larger of the two chime mallets offered by Grover Pro Percussion. Made with the same high-density PVC as the PM-3, this mallet head also features dual surfaces to meet the demands called for in the musical repertoire of todays percussion world. One side has a hard surface for more aggressive playing while the other side features a softer rubber surface for more subtle playing with less articulation. This model (PM-4) has a weight of 180 grams and features a 1.75″ head size.

In both models the 9.25″ handle had a flat design which can help ensure a more accurate strike as well as enhance the durability since there is no way to ever

Which is best for me or my group?

Now you may be asking yourself which mallet is the right fit for me or my group. Here are a few things to consider before making the decision on which model to use.

• Size of the Chime Tubes – These are typically either 1.25″ or 1.5″ in diameter. You may see the 1.25″ options more often in a middle school setting.
  • You may want to consider using the PM-3 mallet of the smaller (1.25″) tubes. Less weight on the smaller tubes will get you the optimal sound without overplaying.
  • The PM-4 would be the go to model for the larger 1.5″ tubes.
• Type of Music Being Played – Is the music a ballad? An overture?
  • For more subtle but articulate playing in a ballad you may think about using the PM-3 regardless of the tube size, since the reduced weight and size of the mallet can assist in the overall reduction of sound without force.
• Instruments you might be Doubling – Is the chime part mirroring a wind/string instrument?
  • If the part is doubling another instrument consider the range and timbre of the wind instrument and make an educated choice on what works best. The PM-4 might be a better choice with a mid-to-low range instrument, where as you might find the PM-3 is a better option for doubling a high range instrument.

Overall, the Grover Pro Percussion chime mallets would make an excellent choice for a go to set of mallets for your school. You may even consider get a set (sold individually) of each to have the ability to adjust to the musical setting as needed, and these would make an excellent addition to any mallet collection you may already have for you chimes.

If you have any questions or want to check on pricing and availability you can check them out on our website. (Links Below)

PM-3 – https://www.chopspercussion.com/product?item=7014084

PM-4 – https://www.chopspercussion.com/product?item=7026926

For more recommendations on the many great Grover Pro Percussion products send us an email at chops@chopspercussion.com or give us a call at 1-877-900-DRUM!!