Darbukas and doumbeks (goblet drums) have their roots in Africa and the Middle East. Both of these percussion instruments are very similar to djembes, but they produce a much sharper sound. To be specific, you'll get a heavy sound by hitting them in the middle, and a sharper sound when you hit them on the edge. Whether you choose a doumbek or a darbuka boils down to a question of taste. Darbukas have a more modern look than doumbeks, and they smaller and typically made of metal. Darbukas also feature a higher edge around the drum head, which not only makes them more accessible but creates an even sharper sound when you hit them on the edge.
