A Legacy of Excellence
Malletech was founded by Leigh Howard Stevens in 1983, when he was just 30 years old. Stevens was already well known throughout the music world for his revolutionary approach to keyboard percussion — the Stevens Grip — considered by many to be the gold standard for modern marimba playing. Since his one-handed rolls and other advanced techniques often exceeded the limitations of equipment available at the time, he set his sights on improving mallet design. These improvements immediately enhanced feel, improved tone, and allowed for more expressive, multitimbral playing. After initially marketing his new mallet design ideas as a signature line for another manufacturer, Stevens started his own company and established the first brand of mallets devoted to serious keyboard percussion players.
Mallets – Designed for Musical Expression
From their nearly silent LateNite series to the world’s best-selling BB34 Becker Blues mallet, from ultra-durable outdoor eMotion models to artist-designed classical and jazz lines, Malletech mallets stand apart for attention to the finer details that matter most to players. Proprietary yarns are engineered for durability, articulation, or roll smoothness. Glued and screwed construction provides unmatched durability. Mallet sets are precision-matched for weight and flex. Finally, innovations such as CNC-controlled winding, dynamic tonal response design, and a 0–50 hardness scale translate to complex, nuanced tonal profiles that evolve in timbre as you play louder — adding expressive “color” like the human voice. Last, Malletech Scholastic Packs and Mtech series products utilize the same materials and construction as their professional models. They’re built to last — and to stay in your mallet bag as you progress on your musical journey.
Marimbas – Pure Acoustics, Engineered Without Compromise
Malletech’s marimba designs are based on science, simplicity, and the immutable laws of acoustics. Their unique bar geometry — always paired with round, acoustically perfect resonators — optimizes resonance, intonation, and projection. Additional features include tunable resonators, easy height adjustment, a modular design for quick setup, and solid American oak frames crafted by Amish furniture makers. In short, Malletech’s uncompromising approach to sound and aesthetics produces timeless, classic instruments that are worthy of the most prestigious stages and powerful enough to fill the largest halls.
Vibraphones – Quiet Is Their Forte
Over 15 years of collaboration with leading artists such as Stefon Harris, Joe Locke, Tony Miceli, and David Friedman have shaped the evolution of Malletech Omega vibraphones. From the industry-standard OmegaVibe to the gig- and travel-friendly OmegaAir, enjoy rich, expressive tones, spot-on intonation, and powerful projection free from buzz or rattle.
Xylophones – Historic Designs for Today’s Musicians
Malletech xylophones pay homage to the famous and much sought-after Leedy and Deagan instruments of the 1920s and 1930s. But instead of merely copying the old designs, Malletech made them better. Enhancements include higher tuning accuracy, both in the fundamentals and the harmonics, a much-improved frame design and bracket mounting system, and patented resonator tuners. Whether choosing the flagship Bob Becker Soloist or the student-friendly Mtech model, each player will enjoy satisfying warmth, clarity, and projection reminiscent of the legendary instruments that inspired them.
Glockenspiels – Redefining What Orchestra Bells Can Be
Known for a vocal, crystalline tone with unmatched consistency, Malletech’s Infinity Glockenspiel is widely regarded as one of the finest ever made. Features include an elevated rail design for maximum projection, an heirloom-quality oak case, and a patented suspension system that eliminates hardware interference, allowing notes to ring practically into infinity. Last, Malletech’s eco-friendly M-Kote finish sets a new standard for orchestra bell durability and tone while eliminating all the polluting chemicals traditionally used in steel plating.
Mtech by Malletech
In 2016, Malletech introduced the Mtech line to bring affordable professional-quality keyboard percussion instruments to a wider audience. Today, many experts consider Mtech by Malletech to be the best value in the market. The high-quality African padauk bars are so rich and resonant, they’re often mistaken for rosewood — that’s how good they sound. Every Mtech marimba is precision-tuned at the Malletech factory in New Jersey within 48 hours of shipping, ensuring it arrives ready to play. Built with durable frames and expertly crafted resonators, Mtech proves that affordability doesn’t mean compromising sound or quality.
