I'm shopping around for a 5 octave marimba and am intrigued by DeMorrow marimbas. Unfortunately, not much information about them exists on the net. I've emailed Doug DeMorrow and plan on speaking with him, but would like to hear from anyone who owns a DeMorrow or has played one extensively. How do they compare to the Malletech or Marimba One? Is there a distinctive DeMorrow "sound?" Is the biggest draw the craftmanship of the frame, the sound of the instrument, or both? I've heard plenty of "ohhing and ahhing" over them but not many specifics. The only picture I've ever seen is on Robert Patterson's site. I live in central Pennsylvania- does anyone know of an individual or institution (I don't believe Penn state does) that owns a DeMorrow I might meet in person?
Thanks in advance for any and all info you can offer,
Patrick

If you are really interested in a 5.0 sometime soon, the absolute best place to decide is at PASIC. With the convention coming up soon in Nashville, you will be able to hear all of the brand marimbas you listed, compare them, and see what it is that you like about them. If you are ready to drop $12K plus on the 5.0, the trip to PASIC is a must, also for the clinics and everything else. Hope that helps, George Nickson