If you are about to buy the handpan drum or hang instrument, you must get as much information as you can to make the right choice. These can be valuable additions to any musician's collection; therefore, its selection deserves careful consideration. Whatever you may be when buying a handpan, here is what you need to know.
Learn About Basic Handpan Basics
Before you get into handpans, it helps to know exactly what you're looking for. The handpan drum is a relatively new instrument, having been invented recently, but it was inspired by the hang instrument, which was born in Switzerland in the early 2000s. The hang is a melodic percussion instrument consisting of two deep-drawn metal shells that resonate when struck. But all are variations on the same theme.
The Right Tuning
The tuning or scale is one of the most critical factors that affect the selection of the right handpan drum. Every handpan comes with different tunings; they all sound different, and each scale has a different emotional feel to the music. D minor, C major, and any number of pentatonic options are some of the most common scales. C major is uplifting and bright, and D minor is meditative and soothing. When looking for a handpan for sale, you need to consider the type of sound and mood you want to use.
The Nature of the Material, the Type, and the Quality
Handpan drum is not such a beautiful 'toy' that can be made from deficient materials. However, other than steel (or steel alloys), most handpans are made from materials specific to the maker in the interest of a unique tone. You also have to look into the craftsmanship of the hang instrument. Search out sturdy, smooth surfaces and well-tuned tone field instruments. A more precisely crafted instrument will not only be better but will also last longer and be better.
Number of Tone Fields
The handpans usually boast between 7 and 9-tone fields, each playing a different note. Because everything is built around tone fields, the number of tone fields determines the range and versatility of the instrument; 7-tone handpans are more simple and are good for beginners. A handpan drum with 8 or 9-tone fields gives a bigger tonal range, so you can go into more complex melodies. To make a decision, just consider how many notes you want on your handpan.
Budget and Price Range
Prices for handpans can vary wildly depending not only on the maker, materials, and tuning but also on who you purchase from. When shopping for a high-quality handpan for sale, the price would be from $1,000 to $3,000 or even more. Different aspects, such as the number of tone fields and the price, are influenced by several factors; the materials used and the brand also influence the price. Before you start to buy, you need to have a budget in place, and it is good that the instrument you fall for stays within the budget and meets your expectations of sound quality.
Find Research Reputable Handpan Makers and Sellers
Always buy from a reputable seller or maker when you buy a handpan drum. If you browse around enough, you'll find a lot of handpans made by well-known instrument makers. Typically, these sellers supply detailed descriptions of the instruments, what materials are used, the tuning, and consumer opinions. Because you're buying from a trusted source, you can be sure that you're getting a quality instrument that will work for you.
Think of the Maintenance Requirements
In order for the handpan drum to be in top condition, regular care and maintenance are required. It is essential to keep it free of moisture and clean to preserve its sound quality. Following use, remove the dust, dirt, or moisture from the instrument using a microfiber cloth. You also need to store the handpan in a padded case when not in use to avoid scratches or dents. You'll also need to be prepared to commit to proper maintenance in order to have your handpan sound beautiful for years.
Conclusion
Buying a handpan drum is certainly a personal adventure, but it is worth the space to investigate and take a bit of time to choose the correct handpan drum instrument. There are many things to consider whether you find yourself looking to buy your first instrument or are making a selection from a wide range of used instruments. Following these guidelines and buying from reputable sellers will ensure that your hang instrument delivers a beautiful sound and lasts for many years.
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