In regards to the beautiful-looking handpan instrument, one of the biggest decisions you will make for the instrument is to select the best material. Stainless steel and nitrided steel handpans are the most popular materials. The properties of each material impart a special relationship to the sound of the instrument, durability, and maintenance. If you’ve been playing handpans for a while or are a complete beginner looking for the best choice, understanding these differences will make the process easier.
Why Are Stainless Steel Handpans Appealing?
Known for their bright, melodic sounds and their rust resistance, stainless steel handpans are also pretty well known. This material also happens to be naturally resistant to corrosion, a fact of which players in humid climates or near the ocean are fond. The low maintenance involved is due to the fact that the surface does not have to be oiled often, and the instrument is very suitable for people that generally want a less maintenance-oriented instrument.
With their sound, stainless steel handpans are known for their sustain. The notes linger for an eternity, becoming dreamlike and meditative. It’s particularly appealing for melodic players or lovers of slow, soulful music. Furthermore, stainless steel boasts a bright and clear tone, meaning it is beginner-friendly, with forgiving responsiveness and tonal clarity for a beginner.
Stainless steel handpans also are not going to be quite as good for percussive or faster playing, either. Dynamic rhythms can be off-putting for the players that are more energetic, due to the lack of the sharp, immediate response that they are used to while playing. Also, stainless steel handpans are usually more expensive, as the crafting necessary to create a quality stainless steel handpan is more difficult.
Strengths of Nitrided Steel Handpans
Steel handpans that have been nitrided offer a different experience from etched steel handpans; they’re preferred for their warm, earthy tones and balanced durability. These handpans are actually heat-treated for nitride, treating the steel to help strengthen and rust resistance, and if taken care of, are a reliable option. While they necessitate more upkeep than stainless steel—including routine oiling—they stand up nicely in ordinary situations if treated well.
In regards to sound, chosen handpans with stainless steel provide a stronger sustain for longer times than high-nitrided steel. This makes for a good rhythmic and percussive playing style with quick note transitions and sharp accents. They produce a more traditional handpan sound; their tones are rich and grounded, and many musicians find this an exciting sound.
Another advantage of nitrided steel handpans is price. Generally, they are cheaper than their stainless steel counterparts, so they are good for the budget-conscious buyer. But players who live in very humid climates and those who want low-maintenance instruments will likely be steered away by the additional care requirements.
A Comparison between Stainless Steel and Nitrided Steel Handpans
Stainless steel and nitrided steel handpans serve different musical styles and tastes of users. To make it a bit easier for your decision, find out which factors, like your playing style, environment, and maintenance preferences, matter. If you are writing melodic, slow music and want to keep the maintenance to a minimum, then the stainless steel handpans are the way to go, whereas nitrided steel handpans offer a better value option for dynamic music.
|
Feature |
Stainless Steel Handpans |
Nitrided Steel Handpans |
|
Rust Resistance |
Excellent (minimal maintenance needed) |
Good (requires regular oiling) |
|
Sound |
Bright, clear, and melodic |
Warm, earthy, and percussive |
|
Sustain |
Longer sustain |
Shorter sustain |
|
Maintenance |
Low maintenance |
Requires regular care |
|
Price |
Higher |
More affordable |
|
Ideal Playing Style |
Melodic, slow, meditative |
Rhythmic, dynamic, fast-paced |
Selecting the Appropriate Handpan for You
After all, deciding which to choose between the stainless steel handpan and the nitrided steel handpan is solely a matter of personal preference. If you fancy long, resonant notes and a bright tonal quality, or if you live in a humid environment then a stainless steel flush handpan may be perfect for you. Alternatively, if you want a nice warm, earthy sound and don’t mind more maintenance and are okay with dynamic, rhythmic playing, then maybe a nitrided steel handpan might be ideal for you.
Whether you prefer metals or wooden handpans, both materials present their own special advantages that truly make the handpan musical instrument magic. Make sure to take your time when trying different options and make sure your new instrument matches your musical vision. Grab Your Handpan Musical Instrument Now! 🎶
