Discover Handpan Cost: Budgeting for Musical Joy 2024

What Is A Handpan Instrument?

Handpans are a unique piece of equipment developed in early 2007. Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer are said to have invented them in Bern, Switzerland. Still, it might be argued that the steel pan developed in Trinidad and Tobago in the 1930s as an adaptation of another steel pan drum.

The “handpan,” “Hang Drum,” “pantam,” and “UFO Drum” are all names for a group of similarly comparable musical instruments. They are made of two convex steel sheets soldered together, with tuned notes on both the top and, in some cases, the bottom half that can be played with the hands.

Understanding Handpan Cost

Handpans are not your average off-the-shelf device. They are made with precision and care, usually by trained artisans who devote time and expertise to each instrument. As a result, handspan pricing might vary greatly depending on numerous critical criteria. Here are a few.

1. Quality and Craftsmanship: The handpan cost is determined by the quality of its materials, craftsmanship, and tuning. High-quality handbags with remarkable craftsmanship and accurate tuning are typically more expensive.

2. Brand and Maker: Well-known handpan manufacturers and brands are sometimes associated with higher pricing. These manufacturers have built reputations for making high-quality handbags.

3. Scale and Tuning: A handpan’s price might vary according to its scale, tuning, and amount of notes. Some scales are more difficult to make, which results in higher costs.

4. Rarity and Demand: The scarcity of a particular scale or design can push up prices, especially if there is a great demand for it among the handpan community.

5. Extras and Customization: Handpans with ornate engravings, extra remarks, or unusual finishes can cost more.

How Much Do Handpans Cost

Now, let’s look at the approximate pricing ranges for handbags. Please remember that these are just estimates, and actual pricing may vary depending on the above parameters, but they will provide you with a solid starting point!

1. Entry-Level Handpans (£300 – £2,000): These handpans are cheaper and ideal for novices. They provide superb value for the money and are an excellent starting point for those new to the instrument.

2. Mid-Range Handpans (£2,000–£3,500): Mid-range handpans are of superior quality, frequently made by respected manufacturers. They strike a balance between price and craftsmanship.

3. High-End Handpans (£3,500 to £6,000+): High-end handpans are noted for their gorgeous tones and excellent construction precision. Well-known manufacturers frequently produce them and provide a high-quality gaming experience.

4. Custom and Artisan Handpans (£6,000 or more): These handpans are custom-made to your specifications. These instruments can be very specialist, with distinct designs, finishes, and additional notes.

Additional Costs To Consider

When budgeting for a handpan, it’s essential to consider certain unexpected charges that may occur, such as…

1. Shipping: If you’re buying a handpan from another country, consider shipping costs, import duties, and customs charges. These might be high!

2. Accessories: To protect and enhance your handpan playing experience, consider purchasing accessories like a padded bag, stands, or mallets.

You will also need to keep your handpan; one fantastic option is to put it on the wall. This keeps the handpan out of reach, prevents damage from being on the floor, and is better for your handpan to be exposed rather than locked away in a bag.

These hangers from my shop are available in various colors and designs to suit your space and personal preferences. Explore the range!

3. Lessons and Learning Resources: If you’re new to the handpan, consider the expense of lessons or instructional resources to help you learn and enhance your playing abilities.

What Handpan To Buy | Handpan For Beginners

The type of metal forms the foundation of a handpan and impacts its sound. Depending on your preferences, you can base your decision on the type of metal used to make the handpan.

Stainless steel handpans

Stainless steel is long-lasting due to its low rusting rate and robust construction. It produces a brighter timbre and longer reverberation, which produces a dazzling sound. This makes this metal ideal for performing in slower-paced environments and providing a relaxing impact.

Ember steel handbags

This metal was explicitly produced for handbags and made an excellent sound. Ember steel is stainless steel with subtle chemical and mechanical composition variations. This results in a longer reverb with somewhat more bass. This material is appropriate for slow-paced atmospheric and rhythmic playing at a medium speed.

It’s worth noting that differing chemical compositions react faster to fingerprints, dirt, and moisture. If the handpan is not cleaned regularly, stains will appear. The stains are purely visual and do not affect the handpan’s durability or sound.

However, if you prefer a sparkling and clean handpan, consider this. All ember steel handpans will discolor somewhat over time. It is entirely up to you whether you like this “patina” or believe the stains are unattractive.

Nitrated steel handpans

The particular treatment that the steel has received (nitration) produces a distinct sound that can be put more in the bass range. This produces a pleasing, deep, and grounded sound. Nitrated steel produces modest reverberation.

It is sufficient to generate slow-paced sounds but not too invasive. It is perfectly possible to play at a faster tempo. Handpans constructed of nitrated steel are ideal for all-round players since they can accommodate a variety of playing styles.

Handpans made of either blue or raw steel

Blue steel is the most basic type of metal used to make a handpan. This metal has not undergone any nitration or other treatments. After assembly, the handpan is baked or fried over an open fire. As a result, these pans have a gorgeous blue color and shimmer.

Blue steel is aesthetically pleasing to both the eye and the ear. It is noted to produce a slightly more percussive tone. This means that the reverberation is brief to medium in duration, making it ideal for quick, rhythmic playing styles. However, blue steel is also appropriate for slow-paced playing because of the possible higher sounds.

The sound can best be described as honest and authentic. These handpan drums, like those of nitrated steel, are ideal for the all-around handpan performer. Many prefer handbags made of ember, stainless, or nitrated steel.

Finding The Best Handpan Cost For You

Ali Massoudi and Navasaz Academy can help you explore the beautiful world of handpan musical instruments. If you want to learn how to play the handpan, you can start with how to play the handpan for beginners. Visit our website right now to learn how much a handpan cost and start learning music immediately.