How does a marimba differ from a xylophone?

While the marimba is a variety of xylophone, the two instruments are distinguished by their construction and pitch range.1

The primary differences include:

• Pitch: The orchestral marimba is pitched one octave lower than the orchestral xylophone.1
• Resonators: While both instruments use resonators to amplify sound, the marimba typically features tubular or gourd resonators. In some African traditions, these resonators include a buzzing membrane to add a sharp edge to the tone. Modern Western xylophones may also use tube resonators, but they are often distinguished by a hollow groove cut along the underside of each wooden bar to improve tone.12
• Terminology: The term "marimba" is often used by ethnomusicologists specifically to identify xylophones that utilize gourd resonators. In Latin America, the name refers to a popular folk instrument with a deep tone, whereas the Western orchestral version was developed in the early 20th century.1

Both instruments are percussion instruments consisting of tuned wooden bars struck with mallets.12