• *Hang Drum* - The hang drum is a specially designed steel percussion instrument made from two half-shells of deep drawn steel sheet welded together at the rim creating the shape of a convex lens.
  • *Cajon* - A cajon is a percussion instrument that consists of a box-shaped drum, typically played with the hands or other percussion mallets.
    • " /> How to Buy a Handpan

    How to Buy a Handpan

    Your Guide to buying the best Handpan

    Overview

    This handpan buying guide is designed to provide buyers with an in-depth look into the world of handpans - from the different types available to the necessary components to look for when making a purchase. We will go over everything from the different materials, sizes, shapes, sounds, and even maintenance that come along with owning a handpan. With the help of this guide, you will be able to find the perfect handpan for your unique needs.

    Key features

    1. Type of Handpan – There are many different types of Handpans available, including different sizes and shapes. Consider what type of Handpan is most suitable for your needs.
    2. Tuning – The type of tuning will determine the Handpan’s sound. Choose a Handpan that is tuned to your preferred sound.
    3. Material – Handpans are typically made from metals such as steel, and sometimes even aluminum. Consider which material would be best suited for your needs and budget.
    4. Durability – Different Handpans have different levels of durability. Compare different models and brands to determine which Handpan is the most durable.
    5. Price – Handpans can range in price from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Consider how much you are willing to spend on a Handpan.
    6. Accessories – Most Handpan manufacturers also offer accessories such as carrying bags, mallets, and stands. Consider what type of accessories you may need for your Handpan.

    See the most popular Handpan on Amazon

    Important considerations

    Pros

    • Portability: Handpans are compact, lightweight instruments that are easy to transport.
    • Unique Sound: Handpans produce a unique, distinctive sound that is easy to recognize.
    • Versatility: Handpans can be used to create a wide variety of musical styles and sounds.
    • Durability: Handpans are typically made of durable materials that can withstand wear and tear.
    • Affordability: Handpans are generally quite affordable compared to other musical instruments.
    • Maintenance: Handpans require minimal maintenance and can be stored and played without needing additional care.

    Cons

    • Cost: Handpans are typically expensive instruments, costing anywhere from $600 to $2,000 or more.
    • Size and Weight: Handpans are large and heavy (typically 15-20 inches in diameter and 20-30 pounds). This makes them difficult to transport, particularly for long distances.
    • Tuning and Maintenance: Handpans require regular tuning and occasional maintenance. Tuning can be costly and requires a certain level of knowledge and skill to be done properly.
    • Sound Range: Handpans are limited in the range of sounds they can produce. Some handpans are more versatile than others, but in general they are not suitable for playing a wide variety of music.

    Best alternatives

    1. Steel Tongue Drum - A steel tongue drum is a small, hand-held steel drum with tongues or raised ridges that produce different notes when struck with sticks, mallets, or hands.
    2. Tambourine - A tambourine is a percussion instrument consisting of a frame, often of wood or plastic, with pairs of small metal jingles, called "zils".
    3. Hang Drum - The hang drum is a specially designed steel percussion instrument made from two half-shells of deep drawn steel sheet welded together at the rim creating the shape of a convex lens.
    4. Cajon - A cajon is a percussion instrument that consists of a box-shaped drum, typically played with the hands or other percussion mallets.

    Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    • Tuning Hammer - Used to fine tune and adjust the notes on the Handpan
    • Soft Cloth - Used to clean and polish the Handpan
    • Carry Bag - A padded bag used to store and transport a Handpan safely
    • Muffling Pads - Pads used to muffle and dampen the sound of the Handpan
    • Stands - Stands and holders that help to support the Handpan
    • Tuning Key - A specialized tool used to adjust the tension of the Handpan
    • Replacement Parts - Replacement pieces for the Handpan such as snares, rings, and hammers

    Common questions

    1. What types of Handpans are available?
      There are several types of Handpans available, including steel Handpans, traditional Handpans, and hybrid Handpans. Steel Handpans are often tuned to a specific musical scale and produce a unique sound. Traditional Handpans are crafted using traditional techniques and are usually decorated with traditional patterns. Hybrid Handpans are a combination of steel and traditional Handpans and produce a mix of both the steel and traditional sounds.
    2. How do I choose the right Handpan?
      When choosing a Handpan, it's important to consider your own musical preferences and abilities, as well as the sound you're aiming for. You should also consider the size and weight of the Handpan, as well as any special features or customization options. It's also a good idea to listen to audio samples of different Handpans to get a better idea of the sound they produce.
    3. How much does a Handpan cost?
      The cost of a Handpan can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and features. Steel Handpans are typically the most expensive, while traditional and hybrid Handpans can be more affordable. It's also important to factor in any additional costs for accessories, such as cases and stands.
    4. Where can I buy a Handpan?
      Handpans can be purchased from a variety of retailers, both online and in-person. It's important to do your research and make sure that you're buying from a reputable seller so that you can be sure that you're getting a quality instrument.

    Trivia

    The handpan is an instrument that has only been around for a few decades, and its construction is still rather mysterious. It began in the late 2000s, when a Swiss metalworker named Felix Rohner and his partner, Sabina Schärer, created a steel drum with a melodic sound. The pair experimented with different shapes and constructed a mini-percussion instrument that was both melodic and widely popular. By the early 2010s, the handpan was an international phenomenon, with people in Europe, America, Asia, and Australia playing the instrument to create unique and mesmerizing music. Interestingly, the handpan has been featured in blockbuster films and popular music, with actor Will Smith playing the handpan in the film "Collateral Beauty." Source: https://www.thomann.de/blog/en/handpan_history/

    Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.