Selecting your first handpan is no easy feat. With numerous considerations to make, it can be overwhelming to determine the right type of instrument, scale, steel, and number of notes for your needs. But fret not, our definitive guide will help you breeze through the process of choosing your very first handpan with confidence.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to ensure that you choose a well-built handpan that is correctly tuned to deliver a superior playing experience. Look for handpans built with octave and compound fifth harmonics tuned to each note, and that can withstand reasonable playing force.

Once you’ve found a high-quality instrument, you’ll need to choose the scale that best suits your musical tastes and preferences. Remember, handpans are not chromatic instruments like pianos, and selecting the right scale is a deeply personal decision that will affect the limits of your playing. Common scales include Major, Natural Minor, and Exotic.

Another key factor to consider is the type of steel used in crafting the handpan. Nitrided Steel, Raw Steel, and Stainless Steel are the three most common types, each possessing unique characteristics that can impact the sound quality and durability of the instrument. To select the perfect steel for your needs, listen to as many recordings as possible and seek the advice of your handpan builder.

Finally, decide on the number of notes and layout that you want on your handpan. This is where you can get creative and customize your instrument to your liking. Work with your handpan builder to explore different options and configurations that will bring out the best in your playing.

At NovaPans Handpans, we take pride in delivering exceptional handpans made by some of the world’s best makers. Our selection of handpans comes in various notes, scales, and steel types, and our team is always available to guide you through the process of choosing the perfect handpan for your needs. Get in touch with us today and let’s find the handpan that speaks to you.