A Head-to-Head Comparison: Hang Drum vs. Handpan

Both names, “Hang drum” and “handpan,” can be interchanged, but there are some differences between the two. This comparison will look at their genesis, architecture, acoustics, as well as accessibility in an effort to explicate these one-off instruments and aid you in deciding which of them is perfect for you.

Origins and Terminology

The Hang drum, which was created by Felix Rohner & Sabina Schärer of PANArt, Switzerland, in the year 2000, is the first of this kind. The word “Hang” translates back to “hand” in the Bernese German dialect; the instrument is played by hand. Hang drum has a convex shape with a central dome known as “ding,” and around it, there are tuned tone fields.

On the other hand, the term “handpan” was used starting in 2007 by Kyle Cox of Pantheon Steel to refer to Hang-like instruments produced by other companies. Handpans can be seen as sharing a more extensive class of similar instruments in terms of construction and manipulation​ (Descriptive Audio)​​ (Sound Artist)​.

Construction and Materials

Hang Drum: Original Hang drums consist of steel alloy that has been designed mainly for use in the Hang and by PANArt. Therein reside these instruments that were built from two steel shells deep-drawn and welded together, giving them their unmistakable flying saucer looks. The exact combination of the steels is not revealed, which is an appealing factor to the Hang’s legend.

Handpan: Most of handpans are manufactured using stainless steel or nitrided steel; these materials are rugged hardly corroding. The construction may be that of a deep drawing of a single shell or of making up of two shells. The material used for handpan construction may be varied, which enables makers to change the alloy with regard to its treatment in order to improve the instrument’s sound quality.

Sound and Playability

Hang Drum: The Hang generates powerful, warm, and deep sounds that are proper for relaxation and meditation. This special sound is due to the special tuning methods of PANArt, where every note is tuned to a base note, an octave, and a compounded fifth.

Handpan: Handpans are more versatile when compared to the Hang in terms of tonal options and tunings that each particular pan can possess. It can range from 7 to 30 notes and it depends on the maker and the model of the laptop. This kind of variation contributes to polyphonic variation, which in turn increases the chances of freedom and innovation when playing music. Handpans are more accessible to learn in general because of the layout of the notes, and it is possible to play both percussive and melodic music on them.

Availability and Pricing

Hang Drum: PANArt stopped manufacturing Hang in 2014; as a result, they are unique, and people seek to buy secondhand hang instruments. Due to scarcity, they are expensive and could cost from $5,000 up to $15,000.

Handpan: Pan steels can be bought from different sellers from a variety of countries all over the world. A new handpan’s cost is $800-$ 6,000, with overall quality, number of notes, and options for modification. Because of this, handpans are considerably more convenient for most musicians to play than drums.

Learning and Maintenance

Ease of Learning: They are both easy to learn, though handpans are slightly easier to begin with because of their layout. Composing balanced and pleasant music on the handpan is relatively more straightforward as compared to the other percussion instruments.

Maintenance: Flutes and clarinets both require proper handling and, at times, professional tuning; due to these reasons, they require constant maintenance. Handpans might call for readjustment more regularly because of issues to do with temperature and humidity. To professional tuning, the instrument stays alive with a deep and ringing tone.

Choosing the Right Instrument

Consider Your Goals: If you are a collector or a musician who wants to play a very rare and unusual musical instrument, then the Hang drum might just be worth it to you even though it is still very, very expensive. Be it for its warm tones, carrying the sense of music history, or simply the ability to become an heiress of this beautiful tradition in case one is ready to buy it – the ukelele is an instrument of dreams.

Practicality and Versatility: For the majority of performers, a handpan will be more advantageous; it is more useful. In general, handpans are more versatile, as more scales may be chosen in their case, options are also individual, and the cost is several times lower. It is recommended for meditative-ambient music, as well as dynamic pop, rock, punk, hip-hop, and other rhythmic music​.

Hang Drum vs. Handpan Comparison Table

Conclusion

Handpan is very similar to the Hang drum and provides a distinctive musical essence of its touch and sound. The Hang drum, with its antique origin and being scarce, continues to be of interest to a number of people, mainly instrumental enthusiasts. On the other hand, the handpan gives a broader range of musical options compared to experimentation as well as is open to musicians of nearly every level. It is essential to comprehend your aspirations as a musician and your financial means so that you can make the right decision between the two stunning instruments.