| Classification | Sound is produced by: | Examples |
| 1. Concussion Idiophone | striking together two objects capable of vibration | Claves, Cymbals, etc |
| 2. Friction Idiophones | rubbing the vibrating object | Glass Armonica, Musical Saw, etc. |
| 3. Percussion Idiophones | striking the vibrating object with a mallet, hammer, stick or other non-vibrating object | Wood Block, Bell, Gong, etc. |
| 4. Plucked Idiophone | plucking a flexible tounge | Jew's Harp, Thumb Piano, Music Box, etc. |
| 5. Scraped Idiophone | scraping the vibrating object with a stick or other non-vibrating object | Ratchet, Güiro, Washboard, etc. |
| 6. Shaken Idiophone | shaking the vibrating object | Maracas, Pellet Bells, etc. |
| 7. Stamped Idiophone | striking an object on a surface to vibrate the surface | Stamping pit, stamping board, etc. |
| 8. Stamping Idiophone | striking an object on the ground or hard surface to vibrate the object | Marching Machine, etc. |