Kumbengo Koras

Pricing, Ordering, Shipping &Warranty

Pricing:
We do not have different models such as 'student', 'pro', 'concert', etc. All our instruments are concert-grade! We determine pricing along a sliding scale based on materials, size and features of each kora. The most basic instrument we make costs around 1250.-, (see example here) with 21 strings, mahogany neck & bars, eye-bolt tailpiece, small gourd, etc.. A more elaborate Kora can cost up to 3000.- and more, with features such as curly maple neck, turned rosewood bars, large gourds, 18:1 tuners, extra strings, inlays, custom tailpiece, pickups etc.. (see example here)

Ordering:
Orders for instruments may be placed via phone, mail or email. We suggest an initial phone consultation to discuss pricing, size and other options regarding the instruments as well as a time table. A deposit of 1/3rd of the final purchase price is required to secure a place in the building queue. At this point we will begin to assemble the needed parts and materials for your instrument. Once we are ready to begin the building process we require a further 1/3rd of the total sum. The final payment is due upon completion of the instrument, prior to shipping.

We reserve the right to retain as much as 50% of payments made in the case the order is cancelled.

Shipping:
Ideally our customers pick up their koras at our shop in Colorado. We are friendly, hospitable people, we'll give you a tour, make last minute tweaks to your kora and probably invite you in for dinner.

Realistically, not everybody can do that, and we understand. We will gladly assist with shipping but please understand that shipping is a transaction between you and the shipping company. We have no control over costs, restrictions & requirements, insurance, scheduling etc..

We will provide you with the dimensions and weight of the shipment and we can make suggestions as to which service has done well in our experience. We can securely crate (plywood crate, foam lined, densely packed) your instrument for 50.- and we will take it to a shipping outlet within 50 miles free of charge.

International customers will also need to research conditions and restrictions on the import of such instruments as well as the amount of duties and taxes due.

Warranty:
We warrant our instruments for one year from the time of the purchase to the original owner. This warranty covers defects due to faulty materials or poor craftsmanship.We shall not be responsible for damage caused by improper use or storage, inadequate protection during transport or damage caused by accidents.

Repairs:
Should the instrument suffer damage through some accident, we will of course try to be of service and you should feel free to contact us. We try to provide repair services and replacement parts to the owners of our instruments at the lowest rate possible. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer.