This FAQ about handpans compiles 50 of the most frequently asked questions I receive from customers. Scales, materials, prices, lead times, shipping, and care—all in one place. Each instrument is custom-made, and I personally inspect its tuning before shipping, so I can answer them firsthand. Read before you buy. And if your question isn't listed here, let me know, and I'll help.
The handpan is a modern percussion instrument constructed from two precisely formed and joined steel half-spheres, each containing precise sound fields hand-tuned by artisans. The handpan's characteristic, overtone-rich sound is exceptionally warm, spacious, and meditative—each note contains a fundamental tone, an octave, and a fifth simultaneously. The instrument originates from the Hang Drum, developed in Switzerland, but today handpans are available in various scales and keys worldwide. Playing the handpan involves lightly striking the instrument's surface with the fingers or palms, allowing the creation of both melodic and rhythmic pieces—without the need to know musical notation. The handpan is widely used in relaxation and meditation music, music therapy, and live performances.
Hand-shaping and tuning the sound fields allows the maker to refine their geometry, touch response, and note balance. This gives each instrument its own unique sonic character. In the Mystic Series, the maker also hand-crafts the central recesses of the sound fields.
You choose one of the sample configurations in shop (or project "„HANDPAN-100% your vision„") and click "Request a quote to my email"—the form automatically downloads the instrument's parameters. After receiving your inquiry, I contact you: we specify the scale, tuning, color, and case, and provide the price and payment details. During the process, you receive a recording of your handpan's sound for approval, and before shipping, I personally test the instrument in Gdańsk. The entire process is best expected to take approximately three months from the date of payment. A full step-by-step description can be found on the website: How to order a handpan?.
The process begins with selecting the series, material, scale, number of notes, and finish. In both series, the maker hand-shapes the sound fields and precisely tunes them. In the Mystic Series, the central recesses of the fields are also hand-crafted. The finished instrument is received for personal testing in Gdańsk before shipping.
The average waiting time is 2-3 months (with the Ekspres service 1 month shorter) depending on the options selected, material availability and the current number of orders.
The choice of scale depends on musical style and sound preferences. Popular scales include D Kurd, Amara, Hijaz, Pentatonic. I help you choose the right scale for your playing style—just let me know, and I'll advise you.
There are two main types of material on offer.
The Professional Series is made primarily of stainless steel, with a brighter, clearer, and more expressive sound character. The makers shape and tune the sound fields by hand.
The Mystic Series is crafted from premium stainless steel, offering a warmer, softer, and deeper character with long sustain. The maker also hand-crafts the central recesses of the sound fields, then hand-shapes and tunes the entire fields.
Yes, handpans are available in a variety of colors. However, we particularly recommend gold and bronze because they are the most popular choices among our customers. Each instrument is given a unique, aesthetically pleasing finish tailored to the customer's preferences. We confirm the final color before ordering to ensure all expectations are met. Please note that a natural patina may develop over time, enhancing the instrument's vintage character without affecting its sound quality or tuning.
Regularly clean your instrument with a soft, dry cloth. Store it in a dry place or a suitable case. Avoid moisture, sudden temperature changes, and striking outside the note area too forcefully.
Handmade handpans are characterized by high tuning stability – with normal use, they require no adjustments for a very long time. Of course, this is the case with intense playing. tuning the handpan may become necessary. In such a case, I also offer reliable post-warranty service that will restore the instrument's full sound.
The number of notes an instrument has determines its range and musical capabilities. With nine to 21 notes, our handpans allow you to choose an instrument that suits your playing style and musical preferences. Smaller note counts are ideal for beginners and those who prefer simpler melodies. Models with more notes allow for greater improvisation and more complex arrangements.
The most frequently chosen scales are: D Kurd, C Pentatonic, Amara, Hijaz, Pygmy .These scales offer a variety of sounds.
Yes, the handpan is intuitive and suitable for beginnersand advanced musicians alike. If you want to learn the basics, such as striking techniques and navigating the scale, it's worth starting with courses and materials specifically designed for the instrument. Mastering these fundamentals will allow you to quickly produce beautiful, harmonious sounds and enjoy making music right away.
The price of a handpan Prices start at around 5,000 PLN for the Professional series and around 6,000 PLN for the Mystical series. Prices increase with the number of notes, the depth of the notes, and the level of customization—each instrument is priced individually.
After clicking the "Request a quote to my email" button on a product page, you will receive a quote for that handpan. You can also select the product: "HANDPAN – 100% Your Master Vision" or "HANDPAN – 100% Your Professional Vision"which allows you to define the instrument's parameters entirely on your own. If you choose a pre-made template, you can customize it by providing additional information based on a sample design.
You can always contact me directly – leave your phone number and I will call you back to discuss the details and help you choose or personalize your instrument.
For transport, I recommend a dedicated cover or case and a dry environment with a stable temperature.
Yes, I can help you fulfill your order as a gift – with a deadline tailored to the occasion.
Each stainless steel instrument has a 24-month warranty against any manufacturing defects.
Yes, I provide tuning services both during and after the warranty period - tuning is performed by experienced craftsmen.
Usually yes - on the website you will find videos presenting the sound of some of the scales on offer, in previous implementations.
We recommend hard covers, stands, and cleaning products.
You'll be amazed at how quickly you'll learn the basics – this instrument is so intuitive! And don't worry if you feel like you're struggling with advanced skills. We're here for you every step of the way, and we know that with a little bit of practice, you'll get it right!
Yes, selected handpans can be ordered with installment payments. For private customers, I offer a 5-installment option (0%)—with no additional financing costs. Corporate installments are also available for companies and sole proprietors, subject to the financing provider's discretion. Terms may vary for longer repayment periods, so we confirm the details individually after submitting your inquiry.
Standard handpans are approximately 22 inches (53 cm) in diameter, which is a popular and universal size for most musicians. Smaller models are also available. comfortable for traveling , while maintaining the fullness of the sound.
A well-made and properly used handpan should maintain its tuning for a long time. Its stability depends on how it's played, how it's stored, and how it's protected from falls, heavy impacts, and crushing. If the instrument requires adjustments, I can help arrange a service or retuning.
The handpan is a symmetrical instrument that makes everyone feel right at home, whether you're a leftie or a rightie.
I'm thrilled to share how this game can help you focus, feel less stressed, and get those creative juices flowing!
The hang drum is like the granddaddy of the handpan, and it was made by just one company in tiny amounts. Handpans are a diverse family of instruments built around the world and have a wider variety of sounds and scales.
Yes, preferably in a hard case. I recommend taking the instrument as carry-on or checked luggage, securely secured.
Yes, many musicians, including me :), use a handpan for live performances, often with a contact microphone or external sound system.
The most popular techniques include playing with fingers and thumb, tapping, slap, dynamic playing, and percussive effects on the instrument body.
It's best to store your handpan in a dry, temperature-controlled place. For everyday use, it's best to keep it outside of its case—on a stand or in a safe, well-ventilated place. The case is best for transport and short-term storage, as it can retain moisture if kept closed for extended periods.
Tuning yourself is not recommended, as it requires skill and special tools. It's best to leave this to the pros — the ones who really know what they're doing.
For purchases over 5,000 PLN, shipping within Poland is free (below 150 PLN). Shipping from Gdańsk reaches Warsaw, Poznań, Wrocław, and the rest of the country in 1-3 business days. The package is fully insured.
The Professional Series and Mystic Series are each operated by separate, specialized teams of makers. In both series, they manually shape and tune the sound fields. The Mystic Series team also handles more demanding projects, such as mutants, bass models, and configurations of up to 21 sounds, as well as hand-crafting the central recesses of the fields.
We want to make sure you get the most out of your instrument, so let us tell you how to keep it safe and sound. Handpan maintenance is the key to a long, happy life for your instrument!
Kalimba, tongue drum, djembe, cajon—these and other instruments are perfect for making those same beautiful sounds!
I plan to organize online courses and in-person workshops for enthusiasts at various levels.
Handpan works well with all types of relaxing, meditative, world music, jazz, experimental and improvised music.
Yes, we offer handpan tuning at 432Hz, which is known as "nature's frequency." This frequency is believed to be more harmonious and promote relaxation and tranquility. 432Hz sounds are warmer, softer, and are often chosen for meditation, music therapy, and mindfulness practices. Although scientific evidence for these properties is limited, many musicians and listeners appreciate the unique, natural character of this frequency.
Yes, I offer cash on delivery for custom handpans. To secure your order, I request a deposit—usually 80%. This deposit confirms the order and allows us to begin the artisanal production process. The customer can pay the remaining amount upon delivery. This system ensures that both the customer and we, producer hand-tuned handpans, we guarantee the security of transactions and the comfort of order fulfillment.
I'm packing I personally pack them in professional, durable packaging and send them by insured courier.
Please note that custom orders are subject to return only in the event that the instrument is damaged or defective. Each complaint is reviewed on its own merits.
I accept payments by bank transfer, online card, and installment purchases. For detailed information, please see the store's terms and conditions.
Yes, I am constantly expanding my offer with new scales, materials and personalization options.
We're so pleased to hear that our customers are enjoying the sound quality, tuning precision, and personalized approach to their orders.
Right now, there's a big focus on making instruments more personalized and on the importance of handcrafted production, which is really exciting! We put our heart and soul into every instrument we make. We use only the best materials and methods to ensure a sound that's as unique as the person who plays it.
I offer both standard-sized handpans, around 22 inches, which are perfect for most types of games, and smaller models. comfortable for traveling — approximately 10 cm smaller, designed specifically for travel comfort. The ability to choose the number of notes on the upper and lower domes, as well as the type of notes (e.g., concave, single, or double dings), allows for further individualization of sound and playing style.
Yes, the handpan works great with guitars, flutes, drums, and many other instruments, creating beautiful and varied arrangements. However, it's worth remembering that if the instruments you're playing with are tuned to a standard frequency 440 Hz, then the handpan should also be tuned to 440 Hz for a coherent and harmonious sound. However, if you prefer 432 Hz, which is considered a natural frequency and promotes relaxation, remember to tune all instruments in the set to 432 Hz to avoid dissonance and achieve complete harmony.
I run an online store—each instrument is individually made to order and shipped directly to the customer, so there's no permanent display to view. I can show my private collection in person. F#3 Low Pygmy 15 handpan, which I have as a demonstration copy.
Yes, during the final production phase, we prepare a video for you showcasing the sound of your custom-made handpan. Once you approve the video, we begin the finishing touches, and I personally handle the shipping.
Have a question you didn't find here? Text me — I usually respond within 24-72 hours. You can also view our guide to choosing your first handpan, where I explain scales, materials and the ordering process.