Just discovered the handpan and want to get started? Congratulations! It is an intuitive, poetic and deep instrument, but also a mysterious one when it comes to choosing. Here is our complete beginner's guide to buying the right handpan, at the right price, for your needs.
1. Understanding what a handpan is
A handpan is a melodic steel instrument played with the hands. It produces soft, round sounds that are very rich in harmonics. Ideal for:
Meditation
Intuitive music composition
Free play, with no music theory
2. How many notes should you start with?
A handpan can have between 8 and 21 notes, but to get started:
9 or 10 notes: more than enough, easy to get to grips with
11 to 13 notes: more options, but a little more complex
3. Which scale should you choose?
The scale is what gives your handpan its mood:
D Minor (D Kurd): very popular, melancholic and versatile
Celtic: bright, accessible, joyful
Annaziska: soft and dreamy, perfect for meditation
Hijaz: oriental mood, with more character
No scale is better than another. Choose the one whose sound moves you the most.
4. Nitrided steel or stainless steel?
Nitrided steel: more responsive, percussive, less expensive
Stainless steel: longer sound (sustain), ideal for meditation, more expensive
5. 432 Hz or 440 Hz tuning?
The tuning frequency matters to practitioners:
440 Hz: the international musical standard
432 Hz: an alternative tuning, slightly lower, appreciated for its softness
6. New or second-hand?
We recommend buying new for a first purchase, because:
Tuning is guaranteed
No hidden micro-cracks or warping
Longer lifespan
7. Budget: how much does a good handpan cost?
€300–500: entry level (often a tongue drum or a compact handpan)
€600–1,000: perfect for starting out with good value for money
€1,000 and up: high-end artisan instruments, customized, with richer harmonics
8. Other things to consider
Included accessories (bag, stand, mallets)
Place of manufacture (Europe, local craftsman, etc.)
Aesthetics (finishes, patterns, color)
9. How to choose the right one
➜ Listen to audio demos ➜ Watch test videos ➜ Read customer reviews ➜ Ask our customer service for advice if needed
10. Our recommendation for beginners
Scale: D Kurd or Celtic
Number of notes: 9 or 10
Tuning: 440 Hz for universal compatibility
Material: Nitrided steel for good value for money
The best handpan for you is the one you will love playing every day, simply.
