This is a replica of a phorminx, an advanced and sophisticated string instrument of ancient Greece. At first glance, it might look like a lyre. Look closer though and you will realize that it is enhanced with a simple but very thoughtful mechanism able to produce vibrato (also known as tremolo) and portamento, giving to ancient and modern phorminx players a lot of abilities: to add expression to their music, to add a lot of sharps and flats, to allow every version of the diatonic scale to start at any point on the chromatic scale, etc.

The phorminx (in ancient Greek φόρμιγξ) was one of the oldest ancient Greek string instruments and in many senses a forerunner of the more elaborated ancient Kithara, as it was the first ancient instrument that ancient Greeks introduce a basic spring mechanism for a richer sound and a “sweet” vibrato effect. Visually, it was recognizable due to its crescent-shaped soundbox. It almost probably originated from Mesopotamia.

LUTHIEROS Phorminx has 7 strings, and it is a compact and very light musical instrument, making it the obvious choice for anyone (academic, musician, storyteller, etc.) willing to carry it with them, exhibiting how advanced the ancient instruments were, and cause awe to their audience, no matter how big or small. A 9-strings version is also available, giving a chromatic range of a full octave. With the use of harmonics and other advanced playing techniques, a 7-strings or 9-strings phorminx can produce three to four full octaves, including sharps and flats!