How to Choose a Handpan?

The Complete Guide Before Buying

 

Buying a handpan is an important decision. Price, scale, number of notes, material, manufacturing quality and, above all, the sound can vary considerably from one instrument to another. Here are the essential criteria to know before choosing your handpan.

 

How much does a handpan cost?

 

 

The price of a handpan generally depends on how it is made, the material used, the number of notes, the chosen scale and the level of finishing.

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For a quality new handpan, you should generally expect to spend around €1,000 to €2,000, or more for certain high-end or custom-made instruments. A case, shipping costs and, depending on the manufacturer, various customization options may also be added.

But price should not be your only selection criterion.

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A more expensive handpan is not necessarily better than another. The quality of an instrument depends in particular on the precision of its tuning, its stability, the balance between its notes, its harmonics, its sustain and its response to touch. Two instruments at a similar price can therefore offer completely different playing experiences.

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Conversely, a particularly low price should encourage you to find out more about the quality of the manufacturing, tuning, reputation of the maker, warranty conditions and after-sales service.

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So, how can you tell whether a handpan is really worth its price?

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This is precisely where listening becomes essential. With a little practice, it is possible to learn to identify an instrument's qualities and weaknesses, even if you are not a musician or handpan specialist.

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In the following sections, we will therefore look at how to recognize a good handpan, how to choose its scale and number of notes, which materials to consider and which criteria to check before buying.

How can you recognize a good handpan?

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The quality of a handpan is determined neither by its price nor by its appearance alone. A quality instrument should first and foremost offer accurate tuning, good long-term stability and a balanced musical response.

When evaluating a handpan, several criteria deserve your attention.

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1. Tuning accuracy and stability

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This is one of the first things to check. The notes should be properly tuned and remain stable over time. A well-tuned handpan should allow you to play each note individually, while also moving from one note to another without creating unwanted dissonances.

 

2. Balance between the notes

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Each note should have its place within the overall instrument. The volume, harmonics and sonic character of the different notes should be sufficiently balanced so that the handpan remains enjoyable to play, regardless of which area you are playing.

 

3. Sustain

 

Sustain refers to the length of time a note continues to resonate after being struck. A good handpan should offer sufficiently long and consistent resonance without making the playing experience confused or muddy.

 

4. Rich harmonics

 

A handpan does not produce only the fundamental note you hear. It also generates different harmonics that contribute to its tone and sonic depth. This is partly what gives certain instruments that rich, enveloping and lively sound.

 

5. Response to touch

 

A good handpan should respond predictably to your playing. A light, medium or more powerful strike should produce a coherent variation in volume and sonic character. This dynamic response is essential, particularly when you want to progress and develop your own playing style.

 

6. Manufacturing quality

 

Finally, you should look at the manufacturing itself: the quality of the metal, the treatment of the steel, the precision of the shaping, the finish and the inspection of the instrument before delivery.

There is therefore no single criterion that determines whether a handpan is good or bad. It is the combination of all these elements — tuning, stability, balance, sustain, harmonics, dynamics and manufacturing quality — that truly determines the quality of an instrument.

PanHub Tip: Whenever possible, always listen to a recording of the handpan being played at different intensities and across several notes. Even better, try it yourself. A handpan may look beautiful in a photograph and not match your expectations at all once you play it.

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How many notes should you choose on a handpan?

 

The number of notes is another important factor to consider when choosing a handpan. Today, instruments generally range from 8 to 15 notes, with some models offering even more.

But once again, more notes does not necessarily mean a better handpan. The right number of notes mainly depends on your level, the way you play and the musical possibilities you are looking for.

 

A handpan with fewer notes: simplicity and accessibility

 

An instrument with a limited number of notes can be particularly interesting for beginners.

With fewer notes, it is easier to become familiar with the instrument, memorize their layout and gradually develop your first rhythms and melodies.

This does not mean that a handpan with fewer notes is only suitable for beginners. An 8- or 9-note instrument can offer an extremely rich musical palette when it is well designed and properly tuned.

More notes: more musical possibilities

A handpan with more notes generally offers a wider range and more melodic possibilities.

This can be particularly interesting for an experienced player who wants to:

• develop more complex melodies;

• have additional notes in the lower or higher registers;

• explore their instrument further;

• play across a wider register;

• or have more possibilities for improvisation.

In return, a larger number of notes can require more time to memorize their positions and master the instrument.

 

How many notes should you choose for your first handpan?

 

There is no ideal number that applies to everyone.

For a first instrument, 9 or 10 notes often provide an excellent balance between simplicity, musical possibilities and ease of learning. But an 8-, 9-, 10-note or larger handpan can perfectly suit either a beginner or an experienced player.

The choice should mainly depend on the scale, register and notes offered, rather than simply on the number displayed on the product page.

 

The number of notes is not the only criterion

 

Two handpans with exactly the same number of notes can offer completely different experiences.

A particularly well-tuned and balanced 9-note instrument can be much more enjoyable to play than a 12-note instrument whose notes are less homogeneous.

Before choosing, therefore, consider the instrument as a whole:

number of notes + scale + register + tuning + sound quality + ergonomics.

PanHub Tip: If you are a beginner, don't choose your handpan simply because it has a large number of notes. Listen to its scale and sound first. You can always choose an instrument with more notes as your playing develops.

 

Nitrided steel or stainless steel?

 

The material used to make a handpan directly influences its tone, resonance, sustain, sensitivity to touch and behavior over time. There are several types of steel used to make handpans today, but two major families come up particularly often: nitrided steel and stainless steel.

There is not necessarily one material that is “better” in every situation. The choice depends on the sound you are looking for, how you intend to play and your priorities regarding maintenance and durability.

 

The nitrided steel handpan

 

Nitrided steel is steel that has undergone a nitriding treatment intended, among other things, to modify the properties of its surface.

Handpans made from this type of steel are often appreciated for their fast response and precise sonic character. They can also have a particularly clear attack, which many players enjoy.

On the other hand, this type of steel generally requires more attention regarding humidity, perspiration and maintenance. Appropriate protection and care are important to limit the risk of oxidation.

 

The stainless steel handpan

 

Stainless steel has naturally greater resistance to corrosion due to its composition. This makes it particularly interesting for an instrument that is handled regularly with the hands and may be exposed to humidity or perspiration.

From a sonic perspective, stainless steel handpans are often sought after for their resonance and sustain, although the final result depends greatly on the alloy used, the instrument's design and, above all, the maker's work.

Stainless steel alone therefore does not guarantee a better sound.

 

So, which material should you choose?

 

The choice between nitrided steel and stainless steel should primarily be guided by the sound you are looking for and the conditions in which you intend to use your instrument.

If you are looking for a precise attack and direct response, a nitrided steel handpan can be an excellent choice.

If you particularly value corrosion resistance, long resonance and easier maintenance, stainless steel can be particularly interesting.

But choosing a handpan based solely on its material would be reductive.

The quality of the maker's work remains decisive. The shaping of the metal, the treatment used, the precision of the tuning, the adjustment of the note fields and the final inspection of the instrument all contribute to the final sound.

PanHub Tip: When comparing two handpans, don't stop at the words “stainless steel” or “nitrided” on the technical specifications. Listen to the instruments and find out how they are made.

 

432 Hz or 440 Hz: which tuning reference should you choose for your handpan?

 

The choice between 432 Hz and 440 Hz comes up regularly when looking for a handpan. But what exactly are we talking about?

432 Hz and 440 Hz are two different tuning references. To understand them, you need to know that the number refers to the reference frequency used to determine the pitch of the A above middle C (A4):

• 440 Hz: A4 is tuned to 440 Hz. This is the most widely used international reference today.

• 432 Hz: A4 is tuned to 432 Hz, producing a slightly lower overall tuning.

The difference between the two is therefore real, but relatively small: an instrument tuned according to a 432 Hz reference will sound slightly lower than an instrument tuned to 440 Hz.

 

Is 432 Hz better than 440 Hz?

 

No. There is no solid scientific evidence showing that 432 Hz is intrinsically better for health, relaxation or well-being.

Many claims found online associate 432 Hz with particular effects on the body or mind. These claims should be treated with caution: the fact that a frequency may produce a pleasant or different sensation does not, by itself, establish a specific physiological benefit.

However, having a musical preference for 432 Hz is perfectly legitimate. Some players simply enjoy its slightly lower sonic character and the sensation it provides.

 

Which tuning should you choose for your handpan?

 

It mainly depends on how you intend to use it.

440 Hz has the advantage of being the most widely used reference. It can therefore be particularly practical if you want to play with other instruments or accompany musicians using this tuning.

432 Hz may be interesting if you specifically enjoy this reference pitch and are looking for this particular sound.

In both cases, tuning quality is much more important than the number itself. An excellent handpan tuned to 440 Hz can be infinitely more enjoyable to play than a mediocre instrument tuned to 432 Hz.

PanHub Tip: If you are hesitating between 432 Hz and 440 Hz, listen to both when you have the opportunity. Don't choose solely based on claims you may read online: your sonic preference and actual use of the handpan are the best criteria.

 

An important clarification for beginners

 

432 Hz should not be confused with the frequency of each individual note on the handpan.

A handpan “in 432 Hz” does not have all its notes at 432 Hz. 432 Hz refers to the tuning reference from which the other notes are determined according to their musical relationships.

 

Should you buy a new or second-hand handpan?

 

Buying a second-hand handpan can seem attractive if you want to access a quality instrument at a lower price than a new one. But unlike some other musical instruments, a used handpan deserves particularly careful inspection before buying.

The choice between new and second-hand therefore depends on your budget, your knowledge of the instrument and the level of security you want when making the purchase.

 

Buying a new handpan

 

Buying a new handpan directly from a maker or specialist retailer generally allows you to know precisely where the instrument comes from, its specifications and its warranty conditions.

You can check:

• the maker and model;

• the scale and notes;

• the material used;

• the tuning reference;

• the warranty conditions;

• repair or retuning options;

• and delivery conditions.

A new instrument also makes it easier to choose the scale, number of notes and sometimes certain characteristics of the instrument according to your preferences.

For a first purchase, this added security can be particularly valuable.

 

Buying a second-hand handpan

 

The second-hand market can allow you to find very good instruments, sometimes at a lower price than a new one.

But you need to be much more careful.

Before buying a used handpan, find out about the following in particular:

 

The general condition of the metal

 

Carefully examine the instrument for signs of corrosion, impacts, deformation or repairs.

 

The tuning

 

This is probably the most important point.

A handpan may have been perfectly tuned when it was made and then changed over time, particularly as a result of impacts or improper handling.

If possible, ask for recent recordings of every note and find out about the instrument's history.

 

Its history

 

Try to find out:

• how long the owner has had the instrument;

• how it has been stored;

• whether it has suffered any impacts;

• whether it has already been repaired or retuned;

• and by whom those interventions were carried out.

 

The maker's reputation

 

A handpan made by a reputable artisan and properly maintained can retain excellent value over time. Conversely, some older instruments or instruments from unknown makers can be much more difficult to assess.

 

New or second-hand: which should you choose?

 

There is no universal answer.

A second-hand instrument can be an excellent option if you know enough about handpans to evaluate it and have access to a reliable seller.

A new instrument may be preferable if you are buying your first handpan and want support, clearly established warranties and an instrument whose origin and characteristics are known.

In any case, don't choose based solely on price. A cheaper handpan can become a bad deal if it subsequently requires significant repair or retuning.

PanHub Tip: Before buying a second-hand handpan, always ask for precise information about its condition, history and tuning. If you cannot try the instrument, at the very least ask for recent and detailed recordings.

 

Why buy your handpan directly from a maker?

 

Choosing the seller is almost as important as choosing the instrument itself. A handpan is a complex instrument to manufacture and tune, so it is essential to know who made it, how it was checked and what kind of support will be available after your purchase.

Buying directly from a specialized maker can offer several advantages.

 

You know where your instrument comes from

 

When you buy directly from the maker, you know exactly who designed and made your handpan.

You can therefore find out about their expertise, manufacturing methods, materials and experience.

This transparency is particularly important for an instrument whose sound quality depends so heavily on the maker's work.

 

You benefit from more personalized guidance

 

A specialist maker knows their own instruments.

They are therefore generally better positioned to advise you on:

• the scale;

• the number of notes;

• the material;

• the register;

• the tuning;

• and choosing an instrument suited to your level and preferences.

For a first handpan, this guidance can make a real difference.

 

Warranty and after-sales service

 

Another essential point concerns after-sales support.

Before buying, always check the conditions offered by the seller:

• warranty duration and conditions;

• repair options;

• retuning options;

• how problems are handled;

• availability of parts or accessories;

• and, above all, the maker's ability to provide long-term support.

A handpan is an instrument you may keep and play for many years. The service that comes with the purchase is therefore an integral part of the instrument's value.

 

Maker or retailer: what is the difference?

 

A specialist retailer can perfectly well offer good instruments and quality support.

However, when you buy directly from a maker, you generally have more direct access to the person or team who knows the design and manufacturing of the instrument intimately.

The choice therefore depends on your priorities.

If you are primarily looking for an instrument made with identifiable craftsmanship, a specialized contact and long-term support, buying directly from a maker can be particularly worthwhile.

PanHub Tip: Before choosing your seller, don't look only at the displayed price. Find out about the maker, their experience, their instruments, their warranty conditions and the service provided after the purchase.

 

How do you choose a handpan maker?

 

Before placing an order, take the time to check several things:

The maker's reputation

Look for reviews, testimonials and feedback from players.

The quality of the instruments

Listen to several sound examples and, if possible, try different instruments.

Transparency

A serious maker should be able to clearly explain their materials, manufacturing methods and the characteristics of their instruments.

Experience

The number of years spent making handpans does not by itself guarantee quality, but experience and the ability to maintain consistent production are interesting factors to consider.

After-sales service

A good instrument deserves an appropriate level of long-term support.

Looking for a French handpan maker? If you would like to discover handpans made in France, you can also explore the work of Mystical Steel, a French maker specializing in high-end artisanal handpans.

Discover Mystical Steel Handpans

Handpan by Mystical Steel

 

Which handpan should you choose as a beginner?

 

Choosing your first handpan can seem complicated. There are many different scales, materials and note configurations, and each instrument has its own sonic personality.

Yet you don't need to be a musician to get started. The most important thing is to choose an instrument that immediately makes you want to play and that allows you to progress naturally.

 

The Kurd scale: an excellent choice for beginners

 

Among the many scales available, Kurd is particularly popular with handpan players, especially because of its deep, balanced and intuitive sound.

It is also a scale that appears very frequently in handpan lessons, demonstrations and online videos. This widespread presence is a real advantage for beginners: you can easily find pieces, exercises, tutorials and playing examples to support your learning.

Kurd is generally built around an atmosphere that is deep, warm and melodic, making it suitable both for improvisation and for learning pieces.

It allows you to quickly create pleasant musical sequences, even when you are just discovering the instrument.

 

Why is Kurd interesting for beginners?

 

One of its main advantages is its versatility.

It allows you to explore different playing styles and gradually improve without necessarily needing extensive knowledge of music theory.

For a beginner, this is particularly interesting: the notes are chosen to work harmoniously together, allowing you to focus more on rhythm, touch, melodies and the playing experience.

Another advantage is that Kurd is very common within the handpan world, making it relatively easy to find learning resources.

You can search for demonstrations, exercises or pieces in this scale and draw inspiration from many different players.

 

9 or 10 notes: a particularly versatile configuration

 

For a first handpan, a configuration of 9 or 10 notes can be an excellent compromise.

It offers enough possibilities for playing melodies, improvising and progressing, while keeping the layout relatively easy to memorize.

A common configuration based around a Kurd scale can therefore provide an instrument that you can start with simply and gradually develop your technique on.

 

But Kurd is not the only option

 

Although Kurd is an excellent starting point, it will not necessarily suit everyone.

Some players will be more attracted to a brighter, more melancholic or more unusual sound. In that case, another scale may be a better choice.

The best advice is therefore to listen to several instruments before making your decision.

But if you have absolutely no idea where to start, Kurd is certainly a scale we particularly recommend discovering.

PanHub Tip: If you are buying your first handpan and are hesitating between several scales, start by listening to several Kurd instruments. Its popularity in handpan learning also means that you will easily find resources to learn, practice and progress with your instrument.

Click here to see an example of the Kurd scale

 

Where should you buy a handpan in France?

 

Once you have chosen your scale, number of notes and material, one essential question remains: where should you buy your handpan?

In France, there are several options: buying directly from a maker, purchasing from a specialist retailer or buying a second-hand instrument from a private seller.

For a first purchase, it is generally preferable to choose a professional specializing in handpans who can provide precise information about the instrument and support you before and after the sale.

 

Buying directly from a French handpan maker

 

Buying directly from a maker offers an obvious advantage: you have access to the person or team who actually knows the instrument and its manufacturing process.

You can therefore obtain precise information about:

• the material used;

• the scale and notes;

• the tuning;

• the sonic characteristics;

• manufacturing times;

• the warranty;

• and after-sales service.

It is also a way of supporting French craftsmanship and having a point of contact based in France.

 

Can you try a handpan before buying it?

 

If you have the opportunity, yes — we strongly recommend it.

The handpan is a very personal instrument. Two instruments with similar specifications on paper can have very different sounds and playing sensations.

A maker who allows you to listen to or try their instruments therefore provides particularly valuable information before your purchase.

 

Buying a handpan online

 

Buying online is perfectly viable today, provided you choose a serious seller.

Before ordering, make sure you have access to:

• reliable audio or video recordings;

• a precise description of the instrument;

• information about the maker;

• clearly stated warranty conditions;

• an easy way to contact the seller;

• and transparent information about delivery and possible returns.

Don't choose solely on the basis of a photograph and a price.

The sound remains the essential criterion.

 

So, where should you buy your handpan?

 

For a first purchase, above all choose a maker or specialist retailer who is transparent about their instruments and capable of providing genuine after-sales support.

If you are specifically looking for a handpan made in France, you can discover the work of Vince at Mystical Steel, a French maker specializing in handpan manufacturing.

→ Discover Mystical Steel Handpans

 

How do you choose a handpan maker?

 

The maker plays an essential role in the final quality of a handpan. Two instruments with the same scale, number of notes and material can nevertheless offer completely different playing experiences.

Before choosing your instrument, therefore, take the time to find out about the person who made it.

 

Look at their experience and expertise

 

Making a handpan requires particular expertise in metalworking, shaping the notes and tuning.

Experience alone does not guarantee quality, but it can be an interesting indicator when combined with genuine expertise and a substantial number of instruments made.

Don't hesitate to look at the maker's work, their instruments and feedback from their customers.

 

Listen to their instruments

 

This is probably one of the best ways to form an initial opinion.

Listen to several handpans from the same maker and pay attention to:

• the precision of the notes;

• their balance;

• the richness of the harmonics;

• the sustain;

• the dynamics;

• and how the instrument reacts to different striking intensities.

Don't rely only on one particularly successful demonstration. Listening to several instruments will give you a better understanding of a maker's sonic signature.

 

Find out about the materials and manufacturing

 

A serious maker should be able to clearly explain which steel they use, how they treat it and which characteristics they are looking for in their instruments.

They should also be able to provide information about the scale, tuning, number of notes and any specific characteristics of the instrument.

Transparency is a good indicator: you should know what you are buying.

 

Check the after-sales service

 

Choosing a maker does not end when you receive your handpan.

Before buying, find out about the warranty, possible repairs and retuning options.

A maker who remains available after the sale provides important reassurance, particularly when purchasing an instrument worth several hundred or several thousand euros.

 

Look at reviews, but remain critical

 

Testimonials from other players can be very useful when evaluating a maker's quality.

But don't limit yourself to an average rating or a few comments. Instead, try to determine what customers actually say about:

• sound quality;

• communication;

• lead times;

• delivery;

• and, above all, after-sales support.

 

In summary

 

A good maker is not defined simply by the price of their instruments.

Manufacturing quality, tuning precision, sonic identity, transparency, experience and after-sales service are all factors to consider before making your choice.

PanHub Tip: Before ordering, take the time to listen to several instruments from the maker and check what happens after the sale. A handpan is an instrument you may keep for many years, so the seriousness of your contact matters just as much as the instrument itself.

 

What should you check before ordering your handpan?

 

Have you found a scale you like and identified a reliable maker? Before placing your order, take a few more minutes to check the instrument's precise characteristics.

A handpan represents a significant investment. The better you know the instrument you are buying, the less likely you are to encounter unpleasant surprises.

 

Check the scale and notes

 

Make sure you know precisely:

• the scale;

• the fundamental note;

• the number of notes;

• the instrument's register;

• and the layout of the notes.

If you are a beginner, also make sure that you actually like the scale. A sound demonstration is often much more informative than a simple technical specification sheet.

 

Check the material

 

Ask what type of steel is used and, when it is treated steel, what treatment has been applied.

This will help you better understand the instrument's sonic characteristics and the maintenance precautions required.

 

Listen to the instrument you are going to buy

 

Whenever possible, ask for a recording or video of the actual instrument.

This is particularly important when ordering an instrument online.

Try to listen to several notes at different striking intensities. This will give you a better idea of the dynamics, sustain, overall balance and sonic character of the handpan.

 

Check the sales conditions

 

Before ordering, make sure you understand the essential information:

• total price;

• manufacturing or delivery time;

• shipping costs;

• what is included in the order;

• whether a case or protection is included;

• warranty;

• return conditions;

• and payment methods.

This information should be clearly accessible.

 

Think about after-sales service

 

Finally, find out what happens after the purchase.

A handpan can evolve throughout its lifetime and, in some situations, require an intervention or retuning. It is therefore useful to know whether the maker provides this type of service and how to contact them if necessary.

PanHub Checklist: Before ordering, you should be able to answer these questions: Which scale? How many notes? Which material? Which tuning? Who made the instrument? What is included in the price? What warranty? What after-sales service?

 

Mistakes to avoid when buying a handpan

 

Buying a handpan is a significant investment. When discovering the instrument, it is easy to focus on price, appearance or the number of notes and overlook much more important criteria.

Here are the main mistakes to avoid.

 

1. Choosing based only on price

 

A cheaper handpan is not necessarily a good deal, just as a very expensive instrument is not necessarily better.

Instead, compare manufacturing quality, tuning, materials, the maker and the services offered.

 

2. Assuming that more notes means a better instrument

 

A 13-note handpan is not automatically better than a 9-note handpan.

The number of notes should match your level, playing style and musical needs.

The quality of the notes matters more than their quantity.

 

3. Choosing a scale without listening to it

 

A scale can sound beautiful to one player and not appeal to you at all.

Always listen to demonstrations and, whenever possible, try the instrument before buying it.

 

4. Buying without researching the maker

 

Before ordering, find out who actually makes your instrument.

Look at their experience, instruments, customer testimonials and the services offered after the purchase.

 

5. Relying solely on videos found online

 

A video can give an excellent first impression, but recording conditions can significantly alter the way the sound is perceived.

Whenever possible, ask for recent and representative recordings of the actual instrument.

 

6. Neglecting after-sales service

 

A handpan is an instrument you may keep for many years.

Before ordering, therefore, check the warranty conditions and find out about repair or retuning options.

 

7. Buying in a hurry

 

Finally, don't feel pressured to order the first instrument you like.

Listen, compare, ask questions and take your time.

The right handpan is not simply the one with the best specifications on paper. It is the one whose sound, touch and personality make you want to play.

PanHub Tip: If you are hesitating between several instruments, go back to the essentials: listen to them, compare them and choose the one you can genuinely imagine yourself playing for the next few years.

 

Conclusion — How do you choose a handpan?

 

Choosing a handpan is not simply about finding the instrument at the best price. The scale, number of notes, material, tuning, manufacturing quality, sound and reputation of the maker are all factors to consider.

If you are a beginner, take the time to listen to several instruments and several scales. Kurd, in particular, is an excellent scale to discover for a first handpan thanks to its versatility and the wealth of resources available for learning to play it.

Above all, don't rush. A good handpan is an instrument you will probably keep and play for many years.

Take the time to find the one whose sound genuinely makes you want to play.

The best handpan is not necessarily the most expensive. For beginners, a 9- to 10-note configuration is often a good compromise. The choice of scale mainly depends on your musical sensitivity. Stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance.

The best handpan is not necessarily the most expensive.

If you are now looking for a handpan made in France, you can discover the work of Mystical Steel, an excellent French maker specializing in the creation of artisanal handpans.

→ Discover Mystical Steel Handpans