Handpan is a unique instrument that combines art, craftsmanship and music. Its sound, durability and character are largely dependent on the material from which it is made. In the world of handpans, we most commonly encounter two types of steel: Premium stainless steel i Stainless Steel (stainless steel). Each of these materials has its own unique properties that affect the sound, use and aesthetics of the instrument. In this article, we will look in detail at the differences between them to help you choose a the perfect handpan for your musical needs.
What is Premium Stainless Steel?
Premium stainless steel is a specialised type of stainless steel that has been designed for the manufacture of musical instruments such as handpan. This material has unique acoustic and mechanical properties that make instruments made from Premium Stainless Steel stand out from the rest.
Properties Premium Stainless Steel
- Long sustain
One of the most distinctive features of premium stainless steel is its ability to resonate for a long time. Sustain, or the time a note remains after being struck, is significantly longer than with standard stainless steel. This allows musicians to create more meditative and profound compositions. - Warm and "ceramic" sound
The sound of premium stainless steel handpans is often described as warm, soft, and "ceramic." This means that the notes are clear and precise, and their harmonics are rich and distinct. - Diversity in sound
It's worth noting, however, that Premium Stainless Steel can vary in sound depending on the batch of material used to produce the instrument. Each batch of steel has subtle differences in its molecular structure, which influences the character of the handpan's sound. Therefore, even two tools made by the same manufacturer may have a slightly different sound.
What is Stainless Steel?
Stainless Steel is a material commonly used in many industries for its corrosion resistance and durability. In the manufacture of handpans, stainless steel has become a popular choice due to its acoustic properties and ease of maintenance.
Stainless Steel properties
- Bright and metallic sound
Handpans made of stainless steel have a brighter sound than those made of premium stainless steel. The sounds are more metallic and expressive, making them ideal for dynamic playing styles. - Long sustain
Although the sustain of stainless steel is not as long as Premium Stainless Steel, it is still impressive and allows for the creation of spacious musical compositions. - Corrosion resistance
Thanks to its chromium content in the alloy, stainless steel is naturally resistant to rust. This makes instruments made of this material easier to maintain and less susceptible to damage from moisture.
Differences in harmonics and aliquots
Harmonics and aliquots play a key role in the sound of a handpan. They are additional sounds created when a tonal field (note) is struck. Harmonics are usually an octave or fifth of the main note, while aliquots can be more subtle and more difficult to pick up.
Premium stainless steel
- Instruments crafted from premium stainless steel have exceptionally rich harmonics. Octaves and fifths are clearly audible, giving each note depth and fullness.
- The aliquots are more subtle than with stainless steel, but their presence adds warmth to the sound of the instrument.
Stainless Steel
- The harmonics in the stainless steel handpan are brighter and more expressive. This makes the instrument sound dynamic and energetic.
- Overtones are more metallic and may be less subtle than in Premium Stainless Steel, giving the instrument a distinctive "metallic" tone.
Tuning process
Customization Handpanning is an extremely complex process involving the precise adjustment of each tonal field to a specific note and its harmonics (octaves and fifths). The material used to make the instrument has a huge impact on the ease of tuning and pitch stability.
Premium stainless steel
- Due to its molecular structure, Premium Stainless Steel is easier to tune than stainless steel.
- Instruments made of this material remain tuning stable for a longer period of time, even with intensive use.
Stainless Steel
- Tuning stainless steel can be more difficult due to the greater flexibility of the material.
- Stainless steel instruments are more susceptible to tuning changes due to temperature or humidity.
Summary of the Differences Between Premium Stainless Steel and Stainless Steel
| Feature | Premium stainless steel | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Sound quality | Warm ceramic | Bright, metallic |
| Sustain | Very long | Long |
| Harmonics | Rich | Expressive |
| Aliquots | Subtle | Metallic |
| Corrosion resistance | Very high | High |
| Stability of the outfit | More stable | Less stable |
| Price | Higher School | More affordable |
Which material to choose?
The choice between Premium Stainless Steel and Stainless Steel depends on your musical preferences and expectations from the instrument:
- If you are looking for a warm sound with rich harmonics and tuning stability, choose a Premium Stainless Steel handpan.
- If you prefer a bright sound with dynamic tones and are looking for a more affordable instrument - Stainless Steel will suit you.
Resume
Handpans are extraordinary musical instruments with versatile uses. Choosing the right material—premium stainless steel or stainless steel—is crucial to the instrument's tonal character and durability. However, remember that each handpan is unique, and even slight differences in material can affect its sound.
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