I know nothing about manufacturers, so could someone confirm if this is any good?

http://www.omegamusic.co.uk/shop/music-sho...roducts_id=1914

I'm toying with buying one in the next couple of months and am thinking that 3 octaves is too restrictive so 4 it must be!

Are there any shops in London or in the South East where I could go and try some Xylophones/Marimbas out?

Also, I think I may be able to get a teacher, but a bit of a drive away. I've had a few suggestions so far but on the off-chance anyone knows a percussion teacher near Dartford that I could contact, I'd be indebted I'd like to do a couple of "trial" lessons to make sure that I actually like it as much as I think I will

Update: Ah, I've taken the plunge and emailed a teacher asking about trial lessons, although it's quite a drive away. It's worth it to find out whether I want to go ahead with the frivolous purchase or not

Ah, you've found yourself a teacher!

I suspect (caveat : my percussion knowledge is rubbish ) that you'll find some similarities with piano, which is good. All the best in your new venture!

Adams produce some beautiful sounding marimbas, Yamaha are also great, Marimba One are an America producer with a following.

Dynasty are a big name in the states from the Drum Corps world and aren't to be sniffed at !

Get a feel for the instrument, other than teachers you could look at Drum Corps in the UK, I'm very lucky in that my local is one of the best in Europe.

Learn to love your scales and arpeggios, because they'll become your best friend. Practise is very important, it's not an easy instrument and grip and technique are at the core of every movement...

Thanks, I'll google them too. I'll do a few lessons to be absolutely sure - it's one of those things I think I need to try otherwise I'll end up forever wondering!