Professional Handpan

Professional handpans come in three main configurations that expand on the standard format: lower-shell notes, a mutant layout, and a chromatic scale. In the first configuration, the maker retains a ding and eight notes on the upper shell before adding lower notes beneath the instrument. A mutant layout generally combines low notes and transition notes, which are also placed on the lower shell.

The most extensive handpans can feature up to 21 notes across both shells, with chromatic intervals that allow you to change keys. You’ll find all three approaches in our selection.

As a general rule, a high-quality handpan stays in tune for 2 to 5 years, depending on its construction, how intensely you play it, and the temperature fluctuations it undergoes. For an entry-level instrument, this period is usually less than 2 years. The shell’s steel is approximately 0.04–0.05 in (1–1.2 mm) thick and gradually shifts under thousands of strikes. Impacts, drops, excessively forceful strikes, and heat only accelerate this process. However, a note is generally not considered out of tune as long as its deviation remains below 10 cents on a tuner, or one-tenth of a semitone.

Keep in mind that tuning stability also depends on the metal, as nitrided steel holds its tuning slightly better in most cases. If retuning becomes necessary, you’ll have the advantage of owning a well-built instrument that can usually be retuned.

In general, crafting and tuning this type of instrument takes several weeks or even several months, limiting each maker to only a few instruments per year. On a nitrided steel model, the shell also undergoes nitriding. This treatment uses heat and nitrogen to harden its surface. The depth of each note field, adjusted by the artisan, determines both its sound and tuning stability.

A professional handpan in very good condition may resell for around 70% of its original price simply because its owner wants to switch to a different scale. On the used market, a handpan most often sells for between 40% and 70% of its original price, depending on its age and the accessories included. However, its value ultimately depends on the condition of the shell and how well it holds its tuning. If you want to buy or resell a used handpan, check the stability of the notes and the length of their sustain. Also check for corrosion or microcracks. Crosstalk, which occurs when one note causes another to vibrate, deserves your full attention because this defect cannot be corrected through retuning.

The simplest solution is generally to group instruments in the same scale so their sounds always harmonize. If you want a broader tonal palette, you can choose related scales that share common notes, such as D Kurd and D Amara. Parallel scales combining the major and minor modes of the same key can broaden your palette just as much. However, avoid choosing scales that are too far apart, as this may create dissonance.

Your instruments must also share the same reference pitch, so it’s best to check the tuning frequency of your first handpan before ordering a second one.

With daily use, you should clean your instrument every one to two weeks with a high-proof alcohol such as isopropyl alcohol, then apply a thin film of oil to the shell. The sweat from your hands is slightly acidic and contains salt and natural skin oils that eventually attack the metal. This film will protect your instrument until its next cleaning. You should also protect it from drops, impacts, and heat to prevent any notes from going out of tune. Finally, when you’re not playing it, remember to store your handpan on a stable stand.