Buying guide
In my opinion a decent handpan costs around €1500. The D Kurd (D minor) remains the most accessible scale for a first acoustic instrument. But you soon buy a second one, because you go round in circles with a single scale — and that’s where a Neotone can come into the picture. Try before you buy if you can, and favour a well-tuned instrument over the cheapest one.
An acoustic handpan has a ding and notes laid out around it: common models run from 8 to 10 notes, and some add notes under the shell (“bottom notes”). On the electronic side, the Neotone comes in a 10-note model and the Mutant in 19 notes.
The scale is the most important choice — and on an acoustic, it’s permanent. For a first instrument, the D Kurd (D minor) is the consensus pick: warm, just melancholic enough, versatile, it’s the most played scale in the world and the one with the most tutorials. Major scales exist for a brighter sound, but D Kurd remains the best starting point. On a Neotone, this decision isn’t final: you change scale whenever you like.
A key question, which I detail in my electronic vs acoustic handpan comparison. In short: acoustic for physical vibration and outdoor play with no gear; electronic (Neotone) for headphones, multiple scales, effects and recording — and outdoors too, with an amp such as a Bose S1. If you live in a flat or are still unsure about the scale, electronic saves you from choosing wrong and buying twice.
Be wary of very cheap instruments: below a certain price, tuning is often rough and the instrument will sound off — the worst possible start. A properly made handpan is a real investment, but it lasts and makes you want to play. A Neotone sits in a range comparable to a good acoustic while replacing several scales. Also check the shop for accessories (bag, stand) that protect your instrument.
Nothing replaces putting your hands on the instrument. In Paris, my showroom is the only place in the world where you can test a Neotone and walk away with it the same day, with no manufacturing wait and at the best price. There you compare scales, feel the response under your fingers, and I guide you according to your level and taste.
FAQ
The D Kurd (D minor) is the best choice for a first handpan: versatile, warm, it’s the most played scale and the best documented in tutorials. On an electronic Neotone you aren’t locked to a single scale anyway.
Common acoustic handpans run from 8 to 10 notes, sometimes more with bottom notes. The note count matters less than the scale: on an acoustic it’s permanent, and it decides what you’ll be able to play.
In my opinion a decent handpan costs around €1500. Be wary of very low prices: below a certain point, tuning is often poor. Also plan for a second instrument arriving soon, because you go round in circles with a single scale — that’s where a Neotone can come into the picture.
In Paris, my showroom lets you test the instruments, compare scales and walk away the same day with your Neotone, with no manufacturing wait. Trying before buying is still the best way to avoid a mistake.
Come try it in Paris, or discover the Neotone and its interchangeable scales.