The Bao (pronounced, "bow") is also called a nipple gong, so named because it has a rounded-bell shape at the center of the gong. The nipple is sometimes referred to as a "bell".

18" and larger Bao gongs produce a deep, rich bass tone with many overtones; the bass tone from 22" is very deep and rich. It's tone is as low or lower (and rich or richer) than the bass on a 26 or 28" Wind or Chau gong. A 16" Bao gong produces some bass and overtones, but is more bell-lke than larger baos; 14" and smaller baos produce more focused bell-like tones with less overtones than the larger sizes making them very good accent gongs.

Bao gongs also have a significant lip and are made from a relatively thick gauge metal. This helps the larger Baos (18" & larger) to produce deep, rich basses with overtones.

Different size Bao gongs usually harmonize with other sizes. Playing two or more Baos together is a fun and fascinating approach for gong playing.

The Bao is traditionally considered a "sacred" gong; and accordingly is used in Chinese temples. Whether used in temples, at home, on stage or elsewhere, it's bell-like musical quality is very beautiful.

7, 12, 14, 16 & 18" & 22" Bao Gongs

7" Wuhan Bao Gong (WU008-07)

NOTE: The finish on the 7" Wuhan Bao is lathed (shinny) rather than the non-lathed (charcoal color) of the other sizes below.

Retail Price: ~~$59.00~~

Sale Price: $44 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Delivery: FedEx Ground; arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

Retail Price: ~~$59.00~~

Sale Price: $44 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

12" Wuhan Bao Gong WU008-12

Retail Price: ~~$218.00~~

Sale Price: $118 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Delivery: FedEx Ground; arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

Retail Price: ~~$263.00~~

Sale Price: $142 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Wuhan Bao Gong 16” (WU008-16)

(Photos: 1st Photo: Close-up of 16" Wuhan Bao Gong; 2nd Photo: 16" Wuhan Bao with gong mallet; 3rd Photo: 16" & 14" bao gongs with mallets)

Retail Price: ~~$473.00~~

Sale Price: $244 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Delivery: FedEx Ground; arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

Retail Price: ~~$473.00~~

Sale Price: $244 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Wuhan Bao Gong 18" (WU008-18)

Retail Price: ~~$638.00~~

Sale Price: $329 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Delivery: FedEx Ground; arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

Retail Price: ~~$638.00~~

Sale Price: $329 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Wuhan Bao Gong 22" (WU008-22)

Retail Price: ~~$1,088.00~~

Sale Price: $554 (includes shipping in continental U.S.) Includes: Basic Gong Mallet and Gong Rope

Recommended Mallets: Sabian small gong mallet; Sabian large gong mallet

Sound description: Produces a strong, powerful bass fundamental with subtle overtones & a bell-like effect.

Metal: Bronze

Weight: 18 lbs 5 oz, + or - about 6 oz

Delivery: FedEx Ground; arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

Retail Price: ~~$1,088.00~~

Sale Price: $554 (includes shipping in continental U.S.)

Playing the Bao Gong

The main striking region of the bao gong is the nipple (bell-shape region in the center of gong), however, the flat surface can also be struck for additional tones and effects.

The nipple produces with deepest bass on the gong. The nipple also produces a strong, long sustaining, fundamental tone with subtle overtones. If the nipple is struck repeatedly, then the overtones become more pronounced. The larger the bao gong, the deeper the bass. Subtle differences in tones can be produced by striking different regions of the bell.

The flat surface of the gong also produces a bell-like sound. Yet the flat surface is higher pitched and produces a trashier quality than the nipple. The flat surface also produces a strong fundamental tone with subtle overtones.

Playing the bao in a gong stand will allow you to easily produce beautiful tones that resonate and sustain. In addition, the bao can produce tones, which are similar to the tones of a tongue drum. When the bao is placed on the floor, or rug, and rested against an object, such as a chair or cabinet, and played on the nipple, then it will produce beautiful, soothing and mellow tongue-drum like tones. So, whether in a stand or on the floor a bao is a lot of fun to play and hear.

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