What You Should Know Before Buying a Handpan

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You want to buy a handpan but aren’t sure where to start. This article will help you make the best decision for your next purchase.

It used to be a lot simpler; there was only one type of tool, and you just went to Cosmos Handpan, tested the tools, and then decided whether or not to buy them. It was harder to find the tool because there weren’t many options. Now the demand has increased and it’s great that handpan makers are now all over the world! The tool is popular and easy to buy. But this surplus creates a new problem. We now have trouble determining how many makers are on the market, who they are and what kind of work they do.

More and more individuals are asking, “What do I need to know before buying a handpan?” Here are a few recommendations to help you make the right decision.

A close-up view of a handpan instrument, showcasing its unique circular indentations.

1. What’s the Cost of a Handpan?

Handpans are not particularly expensive for a handmade instrument. Unlike store-bought instruments, handpans do not have price tags. The price is determined by the quality, difficulty of tuning, craftsmanship, and uniqueness.

Handpans for beginners range in price from $1,200 to $2,500. If you’re just getting started with handpans, this is where most people begin. These starter models often have fewer notes (eight or nine), are built by newer manufacturers or mass-produced, and are constructed of simple but sturdy steel. These are ideal for learning and will not break the bank. A Cosmos Handpan in this price range is an excellent choice—they don’t scrimp on tone, even at the starting level.

Prices for mid-range handpans typically range from $2,500 to $4,000. At this point, the quality begins to improve. A wider variety of scales are available, including Celtic, Kurdish, and D minor. They can be precisely crafted or hand-hammered and offer superior resonance and sustain.

A professional handpan costs at least $4,000. They are made by expert craftsmen and have unique scales, sophisticated tuning, and high-quality finishes. They are often made in tiny amounts or on request. Cosmos Handpan, especially those with attractive designs or unique scales, are also in this group.

2. How Do I Choose a Handpan?

What makes a good handpan? It’s all about the audio quality. Search for handpan videos on YouTube (type “handpan”) and click from link to link to listen to a variety of videos. Put on a headset to assist you pick up the details of each instrument: tone, sustain, tuning, balance between notes, dynamics of the instrument, and so on. Take note of the differences between each instrument you hear. This will allow you to sharpen your hearing. Once you’ve ‘tuned in’ to listening, you’ll know which one(s) sing to you.

If feasible, always try before you buy. For me, the six characteristics of a good handpan are: tuning, timber, maintain, balance, lack of cross-talk, dynamic range. A decent handpan should be easier to play and understand, even for beginners. Take your time, enjoy it, and investigate it while keeping the attributes listed above in mind.

There is a wide choice of handpan scales available. The names may all sound foreign to you, and it can be confusing and daunting. First, you must establish your preferences. Go back to YouTube. In addition to the quality of the instruments, listen to the various scales and note down the ones you prefer. You may prefer several minor major scales, such as serious or sharp, mellow or upbeat, bassy or bright, oriental, jazzy, bluesy, Celtic, and so on. Which ones appeal to you? The name of the scale and/or its notes are usually included in the video description or title. Don’t forget to compile a list of all your favorites.

3. How Do I Choose the Proper Handpan Material?

There are different types of handpan materials, each with its unique set of benefits.

Raw Steel Handpan

Pros: Untreated, making it the most cost-effective option.
Cons: Rusts easily, thus it requires the most care and maintenance. Not the best option for people who live in humid climates or near the coast. Also prone to stability/tuning issues over time.

Steel-Coated Handpan

Pros: Weighs less than others, making them easy to handle and transport. It is also cost effective.
Cons: Rust-prone if the surface is damaged. In general, there is a lack of responsiveness and dynamic range.

Nitrided Steel Handpan

Pros: Treated for rust resistance. Less sustain is beneficial for percussion musicians.
Cons: They still require maintenance and rust protection treatment. Not the ideal option for individuals who play slowly or melodically.

Conclusion

When faced with so many possibilities, trust your ears, hands, and gut instincts. The Cosmos Handpan is ideal for both beginners and experienced musicians due to its high quality, excellent tone, and professional construction. Check out a selection of handpans until you find one that you like. Maybe you’ll find the ideal Cosmos Handpan!