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Are you considering acquiring a handpan? Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.

Vince Myst

Updated: Jan 27

What amount do you need to spend to get a Handpan  ?


Although this artisanal instrument is not excessively expensive compared to other instrument families where prices can reach five digits, it is still not affordable for everyone.


In general, the majority of Handpans available on the global market are priced between 1,000 and 2,000 euros (excluding case and shipping costs). Also, the correlation between quality and price is not always clear, yet we tend to rely on it.


However, don't worry! Your ear, with a little practice and familiarity, will be your best guide to distinguish the good from the less good. You don't need to be an expert to make an informed purchasing decision, and the information that follows will be very useful in this process.


First of all, Youtube.

This is what I recommend most of the time to people who don't have the opportunity to hold one in their hands. By using terms like "Handpan demo" or "Handpan Scale" in your search, you can explore different videos for which I recommend using headphones, or at least good speakers (avoid using phone speakers if you hope to get a faithful rendering of reality). These sound devices will capture the subtleties of each instrument as accurately as possible: the layout of the notes, the timbre, the sustain, the tuning, the overall balance of the instrument.


Simultaneously with your assessment of instrument quality, also explore the different sound scales. Take note of the ones that appeal to you, whether they are low or high scales, minor or major, oriental, jazzy, etc. - as I explain in this article.

The names of the scales may sometimes seem a bit strange to someone discovering the world of Handpans, and they are generally available in the video description followed by the notes that make up the scale.


I explain the correspondence between English and French notations in this article.


Accumulating as much information as possible will indeed facilitate communication with the manufacturer when placing your order!


Where to find a Handpan manufacturer?


Often, social media platforms gather information on manufacturers in dedicated pages. In France, for example, I created a simple → map that lists the majority of them and allows people to locate them across the country.

A good way to meet manufacturers is, of course, to attend various festivals because they are usually plentiful there, showcasing their latest creations. It's the perfect opportunity to try out their instruments, but also to meet them and discover who is behind this magical object, which is a significant aspect not to be overlooked!


Almost systematically, when you identify a Handpan maker, they will have their own website. By conducting a Google search with their name, along with the keyword "Handpan," you will definitely locate them.



How do manufacturers generally proceed?



The operationnal mode of Handpan manufacturers can vary, and it's useful to understand the different approaches:


The vast majority operate with a waiting list system. In this case, you simply contact them, discuss your needs, and place an order.

Sometimes you may come across "flash sales," a phenomenon that tends to become less common due to increasing demand but which you can occasionally take advantage of by following their updates.


Please note that some manufacturers may not respond immediately to your inquiries. For example, in my case at Mystical Steel, I can only dedicate time to my emails on Wednesdays and Saturdays. One may not necessarily realize the workload involved in being a Handpan maker, but I elaborate on it a bit → in this article.



Some details that I recommend you consider with the manufacturer :


The ones that seem essential to me are those that I indicate myself on the site :


  • The After-Sales Service :


In the event of accidental detuning of your instrument, it is essential to consider its origin. I encourage you to consider this crucial point: if you purchase your Handpan from abroad, make sure that the manufacturer is at least recognized. Opting for a reputable manufacturer significantly increases the chances that the instrument has been properly crafted and can be easily maintained by a local artisan. This simplifies the maintenance process and ensures that your Handpan remains in excellent condition, even if retuning is necessary.


  • Meeting the Artisan :


If possible, try meeting the artisan in person. This can add a personal dimension to your purchase, and some manufacturers appreciate getting to know the owners of their creations. However, this depends on the location of the artisan and both your availability. ; )


  • Delivery Terms :


Discuss delivery options, whether through a carrier or in person. Clarify shipping costs, estimated delivery time, and packaging method to ensure the safety of the instrument during transit.


  • Spécific Information:

Interrogate the maker about any unique features of their instrument. Inquire about precautions to take and recommended maintenance.


Are you thinking of buying a second-hand Handpan?


Regarding the purchase of a Handpan from a third party, given the number of purchases and resales in this community, it's likely that you're considering buying a second-hand Handpan.

Don't worry, it can be done very well, but it's essential to take certain precautions because there's no such thing as zero risk.


I recommend, if possible, meeting the person in person, as this gives you the opportunity to try the instrument and confirm, or not, the feeling/attraction you developed online.

Believe me, the sound of an instrument can vary significantly in person compared to a video depending on how it was recorded.


If you choose to proceed exclusively with an online purchase, it is imperative to request "recent" photos and videos and I emphasize this term. Often, videos present the instrument as it was still with the maker, but this does not necessarily guarantee its current condition after being handled sometimes for years by a previous owner. It is essential to ensure that the instrument is still in good condition before finalizing your purchase.


The best scenario is when you know that the instrument has been recently tuned, at which point, ask by whom! In some cases, I've had similar contacts from people asking me if it was true that I had retuned a particular instrument before a potential acquisition, and I've always been available to confirm this information.


I hope all of this has been helpful to you; buying a Handpan represents a significant investment, so take your time to find the one that will accompany you for as long as possible!


To conclude, I'll give you a few keys to choosing the scale of your instrument.


Musically,

Vince

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