£700 to £3,500 is the price of a quality Handpan. However, prices start at around £600. (Not to be confused with the tongue drum). The Handpan thus has a value very similar to other instruments, such as the violin, for example.
But why is this instrument so expensive? Isn't it just a simple assembly of two pieces of metal glued together?
Well, not quite. The Handpan is far from that. We will explain why Handpans are so expensive, and also why ZenaPan can deliver to you so quickly.
Read: The 5 best handpans in G minor (comparison)
1. Why are Handpans so expensive?
It is the manufacturing process, combined with the law of supply and demand, that makes the Handpan so costly.
a. The manufacturing process
The production of a single Handpan takes between three and four weeks of work. This significant amount of time includes numerous steps:
- Sculpting a sheet of steel.
- Manually hammering the structure to form the dome.
- Performing a thermochemical treatment by nitriding.
- Marking the instrument to prepare for tuning.
- Tuning the instrument, usually on 7 to 10 notes.
- Attaching the base of the instrument.
- Performing a new tuning.
- Polishing the entire instrument.
Here are the reasons why the manufacturing process makes the Handpan so expensive. It is also the reason why, in many companies, the supply is much lower than the demand, creating long waiting lists.
b. A problem of supply and demand
About ten years ago, the waiting time to acquire a Handpan was one to three years. Fortunately, the number of manufacturers has significantly increased, improving the quality of the instruments, expanding the range of products, and increasing their availability.
There are now more than 300 manufacturers worldwide. Most of them now allow you to acquire a Handpan without long waiting times.
However, many workshops still have to manage a demand that far exceeds their production capacity, and it is not uncommon for them to make you wait several weeks or even months before they can deliver the instrument of your dreams.
Explore our range of quality and durable handpans. Find your perfect sound at a fair price. Visit our shop here to start your musical journey!
2. How does ZenaPan deliver so quickly?
ZenaPan's fast delivery is explained by an innovative approach to stock management, differing from the traditional just-in-time method. This strategy allows ZenaPan to respond instantly to demands, ensuring unparalleled customer satisfaction in the Handpan industry.
a. Innovative Stock Strategy
- Large Available Stocks
Unlike the industry standard, ZenaPan deliberately maintains substantial stock, allowing for immediate shipping after an order is placed.
- Market Adaptation
The sustained demand for Handpans justifies this more flexible stock management approach, with ZenaPan anticipating consumer needs to avoid any stock shortages.
b. Response to high demand
- High demand
The growing popularity of the Handpan requires constant availability, which makes just-in-time stock management incompatible.
- Handmade production
The small-scale nature of handpan production means that production times are longer, making traditional stock management unsuitable for this industry.
c. Consumer benefits
- Fast delivery
ZenaPan's stock strategy ensures fast delivery, meeting the expectations of customers who want to receive their instrument quickly.
- Guaranteed quality
Each Handpan is a carefully crafted product. Stock management enables us to maintain a high level of quality, with each instrument available for dispatch without delay.
- Customer satisfaction
ZenaPan's ability to deliver promptly contributes to a positive customer experience, enhancing the company's reputation in the handpan market.
In short, ZenaPan's adaptive stock management is a pillar of its success, allowing it to combine responsiveness and quality to effectively meet the high demand from handpan enthusiasts.
At ZenaPan, there are no queues, no negotiating to get in quicker than other customers, and even less of a lottery system to be drawn and be able to benefit from an instrument. You order your handpan and it's delivered within 7-12 working days.
3. ZenaPan's commitment to environmental responsibility
ZenaPan is also committed to an eco-responsible approach, aware of the environmental impact of the production and distribution of Handpans. This approach is reflected in a number of concrete actions:
- Selection of sustainable materials
Use of recycled or easily recyclable materials to manufacture Handpans, minimising the ecological footprint.
- Transport optimisation
Grouping of deliveries to reduce CO2 emissions, and choice of logistics partners committed to carbon offsetting.
- Support for Green Initiatives
Part of the profits is invested in reforestation projects and the conservation of natural ecosystems.
This commitment illustrates ZenaPan's desire to make a positive contribution to the planet, while providing high-quality instruments to its customers.
4. Overview of Handpan prices by level and customisation
| Handpan type | Features | Estimated price |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner's handpan | Standard materials, limited scale | £800 - £1 200 |
| Intermediate handpan | Quality materials, more notes | £1 200 - £2 000 |
| Professional Handpan | High quality, premium materials, extensive scale | £2 000 - £3 000+ |
| Customised handpan | Tailor-made design, choice of materials and scales | £3 000 - £5 000+ |
Things to remember
Buying a handpan represents a significant investment, reflecting not only the quality of the instrument but also its ability to enrich the user's musical life. As our table illustrates, the price varies greatly according to the level of skill and customisation required.
It's crucial to consider both your budget and your musical aspirations before making your choice, ensuring that your hang drum is not just an instrument, but a true sonic travel companion.
Don't sacrifice quality! Explore our collection and enjoy perfect sound at the best value. Treat yourself to the musical journey you deserve.
FAQs
1. What factors determine the cost of a handpan or hang drum?
The price of a handpan or hang drum depends on factors such as craftsmanship, material quality, tuning complexity, and the maker's reputation.
2. How much does a quality handpan or hang drum typically cost?
Prices can range from £1,000 to £5,000 or more for a handcrafted handpan or hang drum, reflecting the instrument's uniqueness and skilled craftsmanship.
3. Why are handpans and hang drums considered expensive musical instruments?
Their cost is justified by the intricate handcrafting process, precise tuning requirements, and the limited number of skilled artisans who make them.
4. What are some affordable alternatives to a handpan or hang drum?
Tongue drums and steel tongue drums offer similar percussive tones and are more budget-friendly options compared to handpans and hang drums.
5. How do you differentiate between a handpan and a hang drum in terms of sound and design?
While both produce melodic tones, handpans have a wider variety of scales and tuning options compared to the original hang drum, influencing their price range and sound diversity.
6. Where can one purchase authentic handpans or hang drums and find information on pricing and options?
Reputable handpan makers' websites, music stores, and online forums provide reliable information on purchasing options, pricing, and the characteristics of different handpan and hang drum models.