Compare string layouts, pickups and cases before you buy.
A sitar is a long-necked Indian string instrument with movable frets and a set of sympathetic strings. This guide compares the two sitars sold on RagaLoom, a Ravi Shankar-style studio sitar and a Vilayat Khan-style traveler sitar, so you can see what each one offers before you buy. For the full listings, see our sitars for sale.
Ravi Shankar style and Vilayat Khan style
The two styles are named after two famous sitar players, and the sitars differ mainly in their string layout.
- Ravi Shankar-Style Studio Sitar: 7 main playing and drone strings and 12–13 sympathetic strings. It is described as a semi-professional traveler sitar for serious practice and performance.
- Black Flat-Back Traveler Sitar, Vilayat Khan style: 6 main playing strings and 12 sympathetic strings, with a dramatic black finish. It is designed for Indian classical study, rehearsal and stage use.
If you are taking lessons, check with your teacher which string layout they teach on before you choose.
What both sitars have in common
- Movable curved metal frets
- A traditional jawari-style bridge arrangement
- A wooden traveler-style body made of tun wood, which is easier to carry than a full traditional gourd sitar
- A built-in pickup, so you can connect to a compatible guitar or instrument amplifier
- Extra strings and several mizrabs in the box
Choosing a sitar: five questions
- Which string layout do you need? Match your teacher’s tradition: 7 main strings or 6.
- Do you need to travel with it? Both have a compact traveler body. The studio sitar comes with a fitted fibre hard case.
- Do you want to play amplified? Both have a pickup. The studio sitar adds volume and tone controls.
- What is your budget? Check live prices in your currency on the sitar page.
- Where are you in the world? Shipping is calculated at checkout from your country (see below).
Playing a sitar if you are new to it
Both sitars are listed for practice and rehearsal as well as performance. A sitar has many strings and frets to learn, so a teacher is a big help. Email us if you want to ask about a particular model before ordering.
Shipping, customs and returns
Shipping is by FedEx/DHL and is calculated at checkout: a base rate for your country plus $25 for each item. Customs duties and import taxes are not included in the item price or the shipping cost and are paid by the buyer. See our shipping page for every rate. Returns are accepted within 30 days for orders under $600 and within 10 days for orders of $600 or more; the buyer pays return shipping and customs. Full terms are on our returns page.
Related guides and collections
- Sitars for sale
- String Instruments
- Mohan Veena, a 21-string Indian slide guitar
- Harmonium buying guide for beginners
Frequently asked questions
Which sitar is better for beginners?
Both are listed for practice and rehearsal. The better choice depends on the string layout your teacher uses and on whether you want a fitted hard case, which comes with the Ravi Shankar-style sitar. Ask us if you are unsure.
What is the difference between Ravi Shankar and Vilayat Khan style sitars?
On RagaLoom the Ravi Shankar-style sitar has 7 main strings and 12–13 sympathetic strings, and the Vilayat Khan-style sitar has 6 main strings and 12 sympathetic strings.
Can I plug a sitar into an amplifier?
Yes. Both sitars have a pickup that connects to a compatible guitar or instrument amplifier.
Is a case included?
The Ravi Shankar-style studio sitar includes a fitted fibre hard case. The Vilayat Khan-style traveler sitar includes extra strings and several mizrabs.
Do you ship sitars internationally?
Yes. Shipping is by FedEx/DHL and is calculated at checkout. Customs duties and import taxes are paid by the buyer.
Questions before you order?
Email info@ragaloom.com or WhatsApp +91 75033 59491.