Handpan Stand

First, your choice of stand depends on whether you’ll be sitting or standing and where you’ll play most often.

• The handpan tripod has a three-legged base that keeps it stable.
• The adjustable stand comes in several sizes, each adjustable by several centimetres (a few inches), so your playing position will determine which one is right for you.
• The wood-fibre and rubber stand rounds out our selection.

At home, comfort and appearance will matter more, while onstage, you’ll want a sturdy stand that sets up quickly. For outdoor sessions, a lightweight model will make all the difference. Finally, folding stands set up quickly and are extremely convenient for rehearsals and travel alike.

For seated playing, a stand adjusted to around 57 cm (22.44 in) will work, while standing requires a height of about 98 cm (38.58 in). These reference points apply to a standard adjustable stand and will help you find the right size. In our selection, stands adjust from 49 to 55 cm (19.29 to 22 in), 66 to 73 cm (25.98 to 28.74 in), and 96 to 102 cm (37.8 to 40.16 in). The lowest size lets you play while seated, while the tallest is suitable for standing. By correctly adjusting the stand height, you’ll reduce strain on your back and arms throughout your sessions.

Metal primarily provides rigidity and durability, while wood offers a warm appearance. A metal stand is therefore the right choice if sturdiness is your top priority. Wooden stands are available in beech or more affordable MDF, while other models use acrylic for a contemporary look.

You should also consider how the stand contacts the instrument’s shell. On some metal stands, three rubber pads positioned on the left, right, and centre hold the instrument in place.

Yes, as a temporary solution, although a snare drum stand is less stable than a stand designed specifically for a handpan. This type of stand is designed to hold a snare drum low in a basket with short arms, whereas a wide, domed handpan has a much higher centre of gravity. Striking it too firmly, bumping a leg, or placing it off-centre could therefore cause it to tip over, potentially denting the notes or detuning your instrument in the fall. The stand’s numerous screws may also produce unwanted noise.

A handpan stand generally requires very little maintenance. For wooden stands, an occasional wipe with a cloth is enough, while metal parts may rust at the joints if you frequently play outdoors in high humidity. By keeping an eye on the stand’s pads, you’ll prevent slipping and minor scratches. For the shell of your handpan, a microfiber cloth and care oil are among our handpan accessories.

To store your handpan, simply leave it on its stand or on a rack, protected from impacts and away from heat sources such as a fire or radiator. Leaving it uncovered will limit condensation and the resulting risk of corrosion. Hooks and wall mounts for handpans, usually made of wood and sometimes metal, can also save space while displaying the instrument. However, these mounts require certain precautions because the handpan can slip and fall, severely damaging it and sometimes requiring retuning. Some players also believe that hanging a handpan puts too much strain on the bonded seam between its two shells, while certain mounts feature cork and rubber padding to protect the shell.

The price of a handpan stand varies mainly by its design, height, and material. Among the stands available from Instruments du Monde, the tripod is the most affordable option, while the adjustable stand requires the largest budget. With an adjustable stand, the price increases with its height, so a model designed for playing while standing will cost more than one designed for seated playing. A sturdier metal stand is generally more expensive than a wooden stand. If you always play while seated, you won’t need to choose the tallest model.