Avoid Costly Traps: Buying Handpans

Some sellers offer low-quality handpans at high prices using fake sound clips. Learn how to spot the red flags and make a smart purchase. There is another possibility that what you bought is just a fancy appearance. The difference between some sellers’ expensive and cheap handpans is just the appearance. Our previous article: How to Tell If a Handpan Drum Is Painted. The more expensive Handpan is just more expensive paint and better-looking patterns. High-quality handpans usually come from handcrafted artisans, so it’s worth researching the maker before buying. Handpan prices and quality can vary greatly, so buyers should be careful and make an informed decision to avoid wasting money on a poor-quality instrument. It’s important to choose reputable sources known for offering handpans crafted with care and expertise, ensuring you receive a genuine, high-quality instrument. Regular maintenance involves wiping down the handpan with a dry cloth to remove moisture and dirt. Applying a light coat of natural oil after each performance helps prevent rust and oxidation. The recommended natural oils include Phoenix Handpan Oil or coconut oil for maintaining the handpan. Avoid using protective products that the maker does not recommend, as it may harm the instrument.

you’ve fallen in love with that magical sound of the handpan—totally understandable. But here’s the catch: not every handpan out there is worth the price tag it’s sold for. In fact, some sellers push low-quality instruments at premium prices, sometimes even using fake or enhanced sound clips to make the instrument seem more appealing than it actually is. Yikes, right? If you buy exclusively over the internet, be very careful, check the seller’s page. The price of 90% of custom-made handcrafted handpans ranges between $1,500 and $3,000 USD. For example, two handpans with the same number of notes can differ in price due to differences in material, handpan maker, or scale. Buying a handpan isn’t as stressful as it sounds if you take proper precautions. our previous article “Choosing Your First Handpan, 5 Deadly Mistakes to Avoid.”, trusting only the audio clips on a website (not with the video) should be considered mistake number six.

Let’s walk through the clear signs of a low-quality handpan and how you can make sure you’re buying the real handmade. Here’s a practical idea: walking through your needs for a handpan helps in narrowing down choices and simplifies the buying process. Listening to handpan music, practicing, and listening to different scales can help you decide and make the right choice. Common scales for beginner handpans include D minor, AmaRa, Kurd, and Magic Voyage, often in D minor. Beginner-friendly handpan scales like D minor are effective starting points for new players. It’s important to select the appropriate handpan scale, as major scales offer a bright, uplifting sound, while the hijaz scale provides a unique, exotic mood and tonality. The DKRT-10 handpan is recommended for beginners due to its simple layout and Kurt 10 scale. Listening to different handpan music and regular practice will help you develop your ear and choose the right handpan for your needs. The handpan’s scale is a set combination of notes that sets its mood and musical possibilities, and it cannot be changed after the instrument is created. The number of notes, including bottom notes, affects the instrument’s playability, musical range, and cost. Different scales provide different moods and tonalities of the handpan. Handpans with additional notes typically increase in price, impacting overall budgeting for purchase. The price of 90% of Custom-made high-quality handcrafted handpans ranges between $1,500 and $3,000 USD. Take your time before making a purchase decision regarding a handpan to avoid future regrets. Personal tastes in sound and aesthetics should guide your personal decision when choosing the perfect handpan. Different types of steel handpans, such as ember steel, offer unique sound qualities. The choice of material, such as stainless steel, nitride steel, or ember steel, can significantly affect how the steel handpan plays, feels, and sounds, making material selection an important factor for both sound healing and performance.

What is a Handpan? A Quick Introduction for Newcomers

If you’re just discovering the world of handpans, you’re in for a treat. The handpan is a unique instrument that stands out for its mesmerizing sound quality and soothing, melodic tones. Born in the early 2000s and inspired by the steel pan, the handpan is crafted from steel and played with the hands, allowing for a deeply tactile and expressive musical experience. Like the steel drum, the handpan is a melodic percussion instrument known for its soothing and harmonic sounds, making it suitable for relaxation and meditation. Its unique sound has made it a popular choice among musicians, sound healers, and beginners alike, thanks to its ability to produce both gentle rhythms and rich harmonies. Whether you’re drawn to its calming resonance or its versatility as a new instrument, the handpan offers a world of musical possibilities for anyone ready to explore its distinctive qualities.

Handpan Materials and Construction: What’s Inside Matters

When it comes to choosing a handpan, what’s inside truly matters. The materials and construction techniques used by handpan makers have a profound impact on the instrument’s sound quality, durability, and overall character. High-quality handpans are typically crafted from Ember steel or stainless steel—each offering its own unique sound and set of benefits. Ember steel is known for its warm, earthy tones and is a popular choice for those seeking a good handpan with a rich, mellow sound and reliable sustain. Stainless steel, on the other hand, produces a brighter, more resonant sound and is highly resistant to rust, making it ideal for players who value longevity and clarity.

The construction process is equally important. Skilled handpan makers carefully shape and tune each instrument, paying close attention to the thickness, size, and curvature of the steel. These small details influence the dynamic range, sustain, and overall playability of the handpan. For example, a handpan tuned to the hijaz scale will have a distinct, exotic sound that stands out in any musical setting. By understanding the materials and craftsmanship behind your instrument, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision—whether you’re purchasing your first handpan or adding a new scale to your collection. Remember, a well-constructed handpan not only sounds beautiful but also stands the test of time.

Flashy Paint Jobs Are Often a Red Flag. 🎨 Perfect look, advertising

We get it—colorful things grab attention. But when it comes to handpans, overly vibrant, rich colors and shiny paint jobs are often used to distract you from what's lacking underneath: quality craftsmanship. The size of your handpan affects comfort, range, and ease of play. Smaller handpans are more portable and higher-pitched, while larger handpans produce deeper, richer tones but are harder to transport. A handpan with 9 to 10 notes is ideal for beginners, offering enough range for creative expression without being overwhelming. Rav Vast is often recommended for beginners as it is easier to learn and more affordable than traditional handpans. The BiiMoon Handpan Generation 2025 series is considered a strong beginner option and is made from high-quality Ember steel. The best materials for handpans vary by personal preference and impact sound quality, lightness, and durability. Buying directly from a respected manufacturer can provide confidence in the instrument's quality and after-sales service. Keeping the handpan in a protective bag during travel helps prevent physical damage and exposure to moisture.

Legit handpan makers usually prioritize tonal quality and material over fancy aesthetics. Stainless steel produces bright, clear sounds with long sustain, while nitrided steel offers warm, earthy, and deep tones with shorter sustain. Nitrided steel handpans are a great choice for beginners due to their affordability and warmth. Stainless steel handpans offer a brighter tone and more resistance to rust, making them ideal for beginners preferring a meditative, melodic playing style. There are many handpan brands worldwide, each with its unique qualities and reputations. Each handpan may require different care based on its material and construction, so it's essential to consult the maker's guidelines. Regular maintenance involves wiping down the handpan with a dry cloth to remove moisture and dirt. Oiling should typically be done once a month, or more often if you play frequently or live in a humid climate. Instruments with a perfect finish are often of better quality than those with defects.

Watch out for:

• Super glossy, mirror-like finishes with no visible hammering marks

• metallic spray-painted coatings

• Sellers who focus more on color than on the scale or tuning

Mass-Produced Mould Handpans

Another dead giveaway? .

Unlike hand-hammered pans crafted by skilled artisans, moulded pans are punched out in factories. These instruments often lack resonance, sustain, and dynamic range. And here's the kicker—they're still being sold at prices that would make your jaw drop. Mass-produced handpans typically lack the precision and soul of handcrafted instruments.

What to check:

• Lack of visible hammering textures

• Identical dimples and note shapes across every model

• Very limited or no ability to offer custom scales

These moulded pans are usually sound dull (1 machine tuning or not at all), and it's rare to see any real effort to push creative boundaries—especially in complex or multi-note layouts.

Can They Make High Quality Low-Frequency or Multi-Note Handpans? 🎵

The ability to build low-frequency scales (think deep, bass-rich notes) and multi-note handpans (like 15 or more notes).

Creating these requires serious tuning skill, patience, and top-notch steel. If a seller consistently offers handpans with complex scale designs, deep tones, and solid tuning across all notes—they know what they're doing.

Low-quality sellers usually:

• Can't offer scales with deep low notes (or expensive prices and lack of experienced craftsmen)

• Avoid making more than 15+ notes Customized Handpans

• Use marketing gimmicks to justify high prices

Meanwhile, master builders can create gorgeous, low-frequency scales with accurate tuning—like Pygmy F2, A2, G2, B2 9+6, Hijaz 18+, or Minor 20 Note. That's a clear sign you're dealing with someone who truly understands the instrument.

Handpan Scale and Size: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Selecting the right handpan scale and size is a personal decision that shapes your entire musical journey. Handpan scales vary greatly, from uplifting major scales to the mysterious and evocative hijaz scale, each offering a unique sound and mood. The scale you choose will determine the emotional palette and musical possibilities of your instrument, so it’s worth taking the time to listen to different handpan music and reflect on what resonates with you.

Size matters, too. Larger handpans deliver deeper, more resonant tones and a broader dynamic range, making them a favorite for players seeking a rich, immersive sound. Smaller handpans, meanwhile, are lighter, more portable, and often produce a brighter, more percussive sound—perfect for beginners or those who want to play on the go. Handpan makers offer a variety of scales and sizes, so whether you’re drawn to the classic warmth of a major scale or the unique qualities of a hijaz scale, there’s a perfect handpan out there for you. Take your time, try different options if possible, and let your taste and playing style guide you to the right handpan.

Are the Audio Clips Real or Fake? 🎧 Amplifier

You'd be surprised how many fake or enhanced handpan audio clips are out there. Some sellers:

• Use reverb-heavy, edited clips to hide tuning flaws

• Use clips from other makers or pro musicians

• Not show the handpan being played in the video (Show only the sound clips on the website)

To verify authenticity:

• Look for raw, unedited videos with visible playing

• Compare different clips of the same handpan

• Whether to use an amplifier. Sound amplification effect

Price Tags That Don't Match Quality

Let's be real—quality handpans(they are handcrafted, and usually take 20-40 days to complete.) are never cheap. But high price doesn't always mean high quality either. The price of 90% of handcrafted handpans ranges between $1,500 and $3,000 USD. A new "quality" handpan with 9, or 10 notes costs between €900 and €2,500 depending on the model and brand. If you are thinking of buying a handpan below the price range of $1,000, you should scrutinize the product description and the seller's references carefully. You can expect to pay from $50 to over $100 for each additional note on a handpan.

Low-end sellers often rely on the “beautiful = expensive = good” illusion. They slap on a $1500+ price tag to seem legitimate, while the actual cost of production (especially for moulded or painted pans) might be under $200. Mass-produced handpans are often poorly tuned and typically priced quite high, ranging from $200 to $800.

Budgeting for Your Handpan: Spend Smart, Not Sorry

Handpans can vary greatly in price, and budgeting wisely is essential to ensure you get the best value for your money. While it might be tempting to save money by choosing a cheaper instrument, remember that a quality handpan made from premium materials like ember steel or stainless steel will offer superior sound and durability. Investing in a quality handpan means you’ll enjoy a richer playing experience and avoid the disappointment of poor sound or frequent repairs.

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of maintenance, and potential repairs when planning your purchase. A slightly higher upfront price for a well-made instrument can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly fixes or replacements. By spending smart and prioritizing quality, you’ll ensure your handpan remains a source of joy and inspiration for years to come.

Quick Checklist to Spot a Scammy Handpan Seller ✅

Here's a handy rundown you can keep in your back pocket:

• ❌ Flashy, various regular and beautiful pattern series.

• ❌ Claiming that their drum is a 4th or 5th generation product And at a high price. A careful investigation will reveal that this model is everywhere on the Internet.

• ❌ Machine-moulded instruments with identical builds. Almost every model of Handpan on the site only has 9 or 10 11 notes (Adaptation mold).  How to Identify Machine-Made Handpan Sellers?

• ❌ No complex scales or multi-note options

• ❌ Only audio clips are listed on the website. Or unboxing video.

• ❌ Price way above value, with vague descriptions

• ✅ Can build low-frequency scales and multiple-note pans, 2th octave and F#5 octave.

• ✅ Provides real sound recordings or videos

• ✅ The handpan has rich hammering marks and obvious resonance.

The Handpan Community: Your Best Resource

Embarking on your handpan journey doesn’t have to be a solo adventure. The handpan community is a welcoming and knowledgeable network of players, makers, and enthusiasts from around the world. By joining online forums, social media groups, and dedicated pages, you can tap into a wealth of experience and advice. These communities are invaluable for learning how to spot handpan scams, finding reputable makers, and understanding the unique qualities of different instruments. Whether you’re buying a handpan for the first time or looking to deepen your knowledge, connecting with others will help you know what to expect and make more confident decisions. Sharing your experiences and questions with the community can turn your search for the right handpan into a rewarding and informed musical journey.

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Essential Handpan Accessories: Stands, Cases, and More

To truly enjoy your handpan and preserve its sound quality, investing in the right accessories is essential. A sturdy handpan stand not only makes playing more comfortable but also helps maintain the instrument’s resonance and sustain. Protective cases and bags are a must for safe transport and storage, shielding your handpan from bumps and moisture. For ongoing care, consider accessories like tuning hammers, natural oils, and soft cleaning cloths—these small details can make a big difference in keeping your instrument in top condition. When choosing accessories, pay attention to the material, quality, and price to ensure they’re a good fit for your handpan. With the right setup, you’ll be able to play, tune, and care for your handpan with confidence, making it a lasting companion on your musical journey. 2 Best Crash-Proof Handpan Carrying Cases Top 10+ Best Handpan Stands for Every Player

Handpan Maintenance and Care: Keeping the Magic Alive

To keep your handpan sounding its best, regular maintenance and care are essential. A well-maintained handpan will retain its sound quality and continue to inspire you throughout your musical journey. Start by cleaning your instrument with a soft, dry cloth after each use to remove moisture and prevent rust. Periodically apply a light coat of natural oil, following the recommendations of your handpan maker or brand, to protect the steel and maintain its unique sound.

Handle your handpan with care, avoiding drops or sharp impacts that could damage the instrument or affect its tuning. Store your handpan in a protective case or bag when not in use, especially during travel, to shield it from bumps and environmental hazards. Many handpan makers and brands provide specific maintenance tips—be sure to follow their advice to keep your instrument in top condition. With a little attention and care, your handpan will continue to deliver beautiful sounds and accompany you on your musical journey for years to come.

Handpan Support: Your Safety Net

A good handpan warranty should also include clear instructions for repairs and maintenance, ensuring you have access to help if any issues arise.

Choosing a handpan with robust warranty coverage and dedicated support gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on playing and enjoying your new instrument. In the end, a good handpan is not just about sound quality—it’s also about the confidence and security that comes with knowing your investment is protected.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Ears, Not Just Your Eyes

At the end of the day, your ears are your best judge. A truly high-quality handpan will resonate emotionally and physically. It’ll sing to you. Flashy colors, smooth marketing, and high prices don’t make up for poor sound. High-quality handpans are often handcrafted by skilled artisans who focus on precision and care. Quality handpans feature harmonious scales, balanced notes, and minimal crosstalk. Many handpans are tuned to 440Hz, which is the standard in western music, ensuring compatibility with other instruments in ensemble settings. A handpan is not that expensive for a handmade instrument, but they are far from cheap. We want to see you acquire a real instrument.