Handpan Materials: The Complete Guide to Choosing

Handpans are a unique and magical instrument, capturing the hearts of musicians worldwide with their ethereal, melodic sound. But when it comes to picking a handpan, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right material. The material used in the creation of a handpan has a direct impact on its sound, weight, price, and how well it suits your playing style. In this guide, we'll walk you through three of the most common handpan materials: Nitride Steel, Stainless Steel, and Ember Steel. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose the one that’s right for you. If you want to learn more about this instrument, we have also elaborated on it in detail in our previous article "Basic Knowledge and Evolution of Handpan"

Ember Steel: For the Discerning Player Who Wants It All

Sound Quality: Ember Steel handpans are considered the top of the line in terms of sound quality. The tones are rich and warm, with a long, smooth sustain. The sound has a mellow, gentle quality that is perfect for slow, reflective melodies or complex harmonic layering. The feel of the handpan is incredibly smooth, with each note flowing seamlessly into the next.

Best For: Perfect for sound healing/sound therapy. If you're after an instrument that excels in both rhythm and melody while offering superior tonal quality, Ember Steel is your go-to. It's also the preferred choice for sound therapy practitioners due to its soft, resonant tones. Multi-note discs (handpans with more than the usual number of notes) are often made from Ember Steel, as its deep, harmonious tones make it a perfect fit for larger setups.

Who Should Choose It: Ember Steel is perfect for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for the highest level of sound quality and don't mind paying a bit more for it. If you have a higher budget and want an instrument that is as good as it gets, Ember Steel is worth the investment. It’s not typically recommended for beginners due to its higher price and nuanced tone.

Weight: Ember Steel is generally the lightest of the three materials. Despite its superior sound, it’s surprisingly manageable to carry, which makes it an appealing option for musicians who need portability.

Price: As the most premium material, Ember Steel handpans come with a hefty price tag. If your budget allows, however, it's an excellent investment that will deliver top-tier sound and long-lasting performance.

Durability: Ember Steel is resistant to rust, making it a long-term investment. It’s less likely to suffer from environmental damage compared to Nitride Steel, but like all handpans, it requires proper care to maintain its sound quality.

Stainless Steel: A Balanced, Versatile Choice for All Levels

Sound Quality: Stainless Steel handpans are known for their long sustain, rich tones, and clear melodic sounds. Unlike Nitride Steel, which has a quicker decay, Stainless Steel offers a fuller, lingering resonance, making it great for both rhythmic and melodic playing. This material is the go-to for most players, as it offers a balance between brightness and depth.

Best For: Good for sound healing/sound therapy. Whether you're playing slow, meditative melodies or complex rhythms, Stainless Steel can handle it all. It's the material of choice for many handpan players, whether for practice, performance, or even sound therapy sessions. Its adaptability makes it suitable for a variety of musical styles.

Who Should Choose It: Stainless Steel is ideal for beginners because of its forgiving tone and longer sustain, which helps players learn how to control the instrument more easily. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone interested in sound therapy or anyone looking for a versatile handpan that can suit a wide range of playing styles.

Weight: They strike a good balance, making them comfortable to play without being overly burdensome.

Price: Generally priced in the mid-range, Stainless Steel handpans offer excellent value for money. You get a durable, high-quality instrument without breaking the bank.

Durability: Stainless Steel is resistant to rust, which makes it a more low-maintenance choice than Nitride Steel. It can withstand the elements better, making it a great option for outdoor performances or travel. 

Nitride Steel: Crisp and Bright, But for Experts

Sound Quality: Nitride Steel handpans are known for their sharp, clean tones with a shorter sustain. If you’re after a snappy, punchy sound, this is a great material. The attack is bright, and the notes are distinct, which makes it perfect for fast-paced rhythms. However, the sound tends to decay quicker, meaning the notes don’t linger as long as other materials.

Best For: Nitride Steel is ideal for situations where quick rhythms and sharp accents are needed. It is NOT suitable for sound therapy. It excels in fast-paced performances and can be a fantastic choice for players who love playing energetic, rhythm-heavy tunes.

Who Should Choose It: This material is generally better suited for experienced players who already have good control over the instrument and are comfortable with rapid rhythms. Newcomers or those seeking a meditative or relaxing sound may want to consider other options.

Weight: Nitride Steel is typically heavier than Stainless Steel, so be prepared for a more solid handpan.

Price: One of the more affordable options, Nitride Steel is a budget-friendly choice for serious players who are focused on rhythm.

Durability: The downside of Nitride Steel is its tendency to rust more easily compared to Stainless Steel or Ember Steel, so it requires a bit more maintenance to keep it looking pristine.

How to Choose the Right Handpan Material for You

When deciding on the material of your handpan, consider the following factors:

1. Your Playing Style: If you’re into fast rhythms and sharp, energetic playing, Nitride Steel may be the best choice. For a more balanced, versatile tone that suits a variety of playing styles, Stainless Steel is a great all-around option. If you want the ultimate in tonal depth and are focused on melody or sound therapy, Ember Steel is the material for you.

2. Skill Level: Beginners will generally benefit from the forgiving nature of Stainless Steel, while experienced players might appreciate the distinctive qualities of Nitride Steel or Ember Steel.

3. Budget: Nitride Steel is the most affordable, Stainless Steel is mid-range, and Ember Steel is the premium choice. Make sure to choose according to both your musical needs and budget.

4. Sound Preference: Do you want a punchy, short sustain? Opt for Nitride Steel. Prefer long, resonant tones? Go for Stainless Steel or Ember Steel. Think about the sound quality that resonates with you the most.

5. Durability: Consider how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Stainless Steel and Ember Steel are much easier to maintain than Nitride Steel, which is prone to rusting.

In Conclusion: Which Material Should You Choose?

In the end, your choice of handpan material comes down to what suits your needs best. If you’re an expert player looking for something with crisp tones for fast rhythms, Nitride Steel may be your best bet. If you’re just starting out and want something that’s easy to play with great all-around performance, Stainless Steel is the way to go. And if you’re looking for the highest level of sound quality and are willing to make the investment, Ember Steel is the material for you.

No matter which material you choose, each type of handpan offers its own unique playing experience and sound. So, take your time, test out different options if you can, and let your musical journey guide you to the perfect handpan! If you fall in love with this instrument, you will definitely not own just one.