The recorder has a very clear, brilliant sound which is rich in overtones although the lower instruments are not that powerful. Naturally the instrument blends well with other recorders but also with keyboard instruments such as the harpsichord and organ. Together with a cello or viola da gamba, they form an ideal combination for the many baroque solo sonatas and suites.
The lute and the theorbo are good accompanying instruments due to their soft sound which dies away quickly. As for larger ensembles, stringed instruments as the violin or also wind instruments such as the oboe or the bassoon are perfect accompaniments. Stringed and wind instruments should however be modelled on baroque or - dependant on the style of music - even older instruments, as these are quieter and have more overtones than the more modern instruments. Another particularly fine and effective combination is the recorder and vocals.