I have developed an excellent mallet that incorporates the best elements needed for live performance and recording the vibraphone and marimba. The Pro Mark Dick Sisto mallet (PDS) is a true med. hard mallet with a balanced head weight and appropriate rattan length and thickness. A full range of dynamics can be played with them. The overall sound is round, full and mello, but "cuts through" when needed to. They are available in sets of four and can be purchased through Steve Weiss Music .Com (215) 659-0100, Columbus Percussion .Com (888) 422-1715, or Lone Star Percussion .Com (214) 340-0835.