The handpan and steel tongue drum are two popular percussion instruments made of steel, both known for their soothing sounds. Although they share some similarities, they differ in design, sound, playing techniques, and complexity. This article will compare the two instruments, helping you decide which one suits your needs.
Notes: If you find my detailed explanation a bit too long, feel free to scroll down to the comparison table at the end.
Topic of Content
- Construction and Design
- Tuning and Sound Production
- Playing Techniques
- Size, Portability, and Durability
- Cost and Accessibility
- Musical Range and Complexity
Construction and Design
Handpan
A handpan is made of two welded steel hemispheres. The top hemisphere is concave, with a central note called the "ding" surrounded by tone fields. These tone fields are tuned to specific pitches. Handpans are typically crafted from nitrided steel, a treated material that enhances resonance. The creation process is complex, involving hand-hammering and fine-tuning to achieve the desired sound. Most handpans have 7-12 tone fields, though some custom models can have more.
Steel Tongue Drum
A steel tongue drum is made from a thick steel disk with several tongues or slits, each tuned to a specific pitch. The drum is simpler to make than a handpan. The process involves cutting the steel and tuning each tongue, usually by filing or shaping it. Steel tongue drums typically have between 6-15 notes, and the design can vary. This simpler construction contributes to their lower price.
Tuning and Sound Production
Handpan
Handpans are tuned in various scales, such as D minor or pentatonic, and feature a rich harmonic structure. The central "ding" is the tonic, with surrounding notes arranged to create a balanced sound. The handpan produces smooth, sustained tones with bell-like overtones. It is ideal for melodic and rhythmic play and is often used in meditation and sound therapy.
Steel Tongue Drum
Steel tongue drums are also tuned to specific scales but produce a more staccato sound. Each tongue produces a clear, bell-like note with a sharp attack and quicker decay. The tone is more percussive, and the overall sound is less resonant than a handpan. Steel tongue drums are often used for rhythm and simple melodies, with clear, defined notes.
Playing Techniques
Handpan
Handpans are played with the hands, fingers, and palms. The "ding" is struck to create a deeper sound, and the surrounding fields are tapped to produce higher notes. The playing technique requires both hands, and players can create complex rhythmic and melodic patterns by varying pressure and speed. The handpan’s dynamic range allows for a wide variety of textures and expressions.
Steel Tongue Drum
Steel tongue drums are simpler to play. Players strike the tongues with mallets or fingers. The design of the drum, often arranged in a circle or spiral, makes it easy to move from one note to the next. While the playing technique is less complex, the instrument still offers a satisfying rhythmic and melodic experience. The simplicity of the steel tongue drum makes it an excellent choice for beginners.
Size, Portability, and Durability
Handpan
Handpans are typically 20-24 inches in diameter, making them compact but heavier than steel tongue drums. They require careful handling to avoid damaging the tone fields. Many players invest in custom cases for protection. While portable, handpans are fragile and should be transported with care.
Steel Tongue Drum
Steel tongue drums are smaller and lighter, typically ranging from 8-16 inches in diameter. They are easier to transport and less fragile than handpans. The simplicity of the design makes them more durable, and they require less protection when traveling.
Cost and Accessibility
Handpan
Handpans are expensive, often ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. The high cost reflects the labor-intensive crafting process, specialized tuning, and limited production scale. Handpans are niche instruments and not as widely available as steel tongue drums.
Steel Tongue Drum
Steel tongue drums are more affordable, ranging from $100 to $1,000 depending on size and craftsmanship. This makes them more accessible to beginners and those on a budget. Despite being cheaper, steel tongue drums can still offer a rich musical experience. The April Yang 15N8N Steel Tongue Drum, for example, offers an impressive range of 15 notes, combined with an additional 8-note drum, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both versatility and value.
Musical Range and Complexity
Handpan
Handpans offer a wide tonal range and complex harmonic structure, making them suited for both advanced rhythmic and melodic play. The tuning is intricate, allowing for rich overtones and deeper resonance. The handpan’s complexity makes it ideal for musicians who want to explore a broad range of sounds.
Steel Tongue Drum
Steel tongue drums are simpler, with fewer notes and a less complex harmonic structure. They excel in rhythmic and melodic play but lack the depth and complexity of handpans. The limited range makes them suitable for those looking for an easier, more relaxing playing experience.
Summary of Differences:
Conclusion:
In short, the handpan is more complex, expensive, and offers a broader, richer sound with intricate harmonic overtones, whereas the steel tongue drum is simpler, more affordable, and easier to play, with a more percussive and clear tonal quality. The choice between the two depends on the player’s preferences, budget, and the type of musical experience they’re seeking.
On the other hand, if you want a more affordable and accessible instrument, the steel tongue drum is an excellent option. The April Yang 15N8N Steel Tongue Drum is a great choice for those who want a versatile instrument with a wide range of notes at a reasonable price. It offers 15 notes on the main drum and an additional 8 notes on the smaller drum, providing a good balance of musical range and value.
