Pan drums (also referred to as handpans, steel tongue drums or hang drums) have seen tremendous popularity over recent years due to their distinctive sound and versatility. From experienced musicians to beginner players alike, pan drums offer an exciting musical exploration opportunity. This article presents eight of the top pan drums currently on the market including top picks like Cosmos Handpan's Exquisite 9/10/12 Notes in D Minor Golden Elegance Gift Set as well as Golden Mandarins 9/10/12 Notes in D Minor Tambourine Gift Set among many more.
1. Cosmos Handpan with Exquisite 9/10/12 Notes in D Minor and Golden Elegance Gift Set is an Exquisite 9/10/12 Notes D Minor Set from Golden Elegance.
The Cosmos Handpan - Exquisite 9/10/12 Notes in D Minor - Golden Elegance Gift Set stands out due to its stunning design and incredible sound quality. Boasting an eye-catching golden finish that both visually appeals and offers lasting durability, this handpan offers exceptional sound quality for its price.
Key Features: Precise notes in 9, 10 and 12-note variations are tuned to D Minor, making for an exquisite golden elegance that stands out. High-grade steel ensures durability and resonance.
Accessories: Includes protective case and mallets for ease.
Cons: Premium features incur an increased price point.
This handpan is ideal for those who appreciate both aesthetic beauty and superior sound quality.
2. Cosmos Handpan with Golden Mandarins in D Minor for Tambourine Gift Set
Cosmos' Golden Mandarins Handpan stands out as yet another fantastic offering from their stellar collection, boasting an eye-catching design and outstanding sound qualities. Perfect for exploring diverse musical textures.
Key Features: S-Note is available in 9, 10 and 12-note configurations tuned to D Minor, featuring eye-catching golden mandarins finish design and constructed from high quality steel material.
Accessories: Includes a tambourine and protective case.
Versatile note options to accommodate different playing techniques, and an added tambourine add a unique musical dimension. On the downside, due to additional features this product may be slightly heavier.
This handpan is ideal for musicians looking to experiment with various sounds and textures.
3. Meinl Sonic Energy Harmonic Art Handpan
Meinl is an esteemed name in percussion, and their Sonic Energy Harmonic Art Handpan lives up to their reputation for quality. Crafted to produce soothing harmonic sounds, this handpan embodies Meinl's tradition for craftsmanship.
Key Features: WKUd Notes and Tuning of 9 tones to D Kurd (which correspond to 9 notes tuned by Kurd). WKD Design features simple yet elegant matte finishes for an appealing aesthetic, whilst material choices include premium stainless steel to enhance durability.
Accessories: Comes complete with a padded bag for convenient transport. Pros: Achieves beautiful harmonic sound ideal for meditation and relaxation, has durable stainless steel construction, is easily transportable using the included padded bag, is trusted brand with a solid reputation of quality manufacturing, and features an expanded note range compared to similar models.
Cons: Due to limited note options this model does not compare well against some others models on the market.
4. RAV Vast Steel Tongue Drum
This unconventional handpan design offers an unusual timbre with rich and deep tones, and has become popular due to its striking appearance.
Key Features: Notes are tuned to various scales. DESIGN: Intricate laser-cut design with matte finish. MATERIAL: High-grade steel. Accessories: This instrument includes a soft case and mallets. PROS: Bright sound that stands out, intricate laser cut design adds visual interest, durable construction using high quality steel material and includes essential accessories for immediate play - but the playing technique may differ slightly.
5. HAPI Drum - Hand Activated Percussion Instrument
The HAPI Drum is known for its ease of play and soothing sounds, making it the ideal instrument for both newcomers and experienced players alike.
Key Features: Wong Ting features 8 notes tuned to a pentatonic scale. Design options range from vibrant hues, while material features powder-coated steel for durability. As for accessories, there is a travel bag and mallets included with purchase.Pros:
Easy for beginners to play while offering soothing melodic tones. It is durable with vibrant designs available. With all this comes travel-friendly accessories too - which includes travel bags.
6. Axiom Steel Tongue Drum
Another great choice, the Axiom Steel Tongue Drum stands out as being both affordable and high-quality sound-wise.
Key Features: D Major. Design: Sleek black finish with laser-engraved patterns and sleek black carrying bag and mallets included. Materials: High-grade steel. And Mallets included! As for Pros: Without compromising sound quality this affordable model features wide note range to cater to various playing styles as well as durable construction and aesthetic design features aesthetically pleasing appearance that includes all necessary accessories (carrying bag & mallets included) though there may not be as resonant quality compared with higher end models which come equipped with all necessary accessories.
7. Idiopan Domina 12-Inch Steel Tongue Drum
The Idiopan Domina delivers a versatile musical experience thanks to its tunable tongues, making it suitable for various genres of music.
Key Features: Numbers 8 through 17 are adjustable notes. Design features an attractive powder-coated finish and high quality steel.
Accessories Include Tuning Magnets, Bag and Mallets. Pros: Customizable Tuning for a personalized sound; high-quality construction. Includes tuning accessories suitable for various musical genres.
8. Ohuhu Steel Tongue Drum
For entry-level instruments that deliver excellent sound quality and durability at an attractive price, nothing beats Ohuhu's Steel Tongue Drum as an affordable solution.
Key Features: All 11 Notes are Tuned to D Major. Design is simple with powder-coated finish for ease-of-use.
Material used: Steel for durability.
Accessories Included: Bag, Mallets and Note Stickers are Included with This Piano for Beginners.
Conclusion
Consider factors such as note range, material quality, design and accessories when purchasing a pan drum to get the maximum value from your investment. From beginners to seasoned players alike, handpan pan drum provide an exciting way to explore and enjoy handpan music's beautiful world of handpan music.
