Author name: PanStream

Shipping, Packaging, Insurance & Returns

Shipping, Packaging, Insurance & Returns At PanStream, we put great care into ensuring that your HandPan arrives safe, secure, and ready to play. Below you’ll find all the important details about our shipping process, insurance coverage, and returns policy. Free Shipping to UK Mainland & EU We are happy to offer free shipping across the UK Mainland and the EU. For customers outside these regions, please contact us for a custom shipping quote. Please note: Customers outside UK may be required to pay local customs charges. These fees are the responsibility of the customer, and we recommend checking with your local customs office before placing your order. How We Pack Your HandPan Each PanStream instrument is carefully suspended in a double cardboard box, providing maximum protection during transit. All shipments are fully tracked and insured. We only issue legit invoices to ensure smooth customs clearance and valid insurance coverage. We do not stock HandPan cases at the moment, but you are welcome to: Send us your own case, or Order a case (we recommend Hardcase Technologies – Evatek Medium) and have it delivered directly to us before shipping. Shipping Process Once your payment has cleared and your instrument is ready to ship, we will book a courier and email you with your tracking number. Please double-check your delivery address and contact details, as PanStream cannot be held responsible for delays or losses due to incorrect information. Upon delivery: Inspect the box carefully before signing for it. If you see damage, take photos immediately. Open the box and examine the instrument thoroughly. Do not dispose of the box until you are completely satisfied. We recommend keeping the box for future use (e.g., tuning or service returns). Shipping Damage If your instrument arrives damaged: Notify us immediately. All claims must be reported within 14 days of delivery (including the delivery date). Keep the original packaging and the damaged instrument at the delivery address for courier inspection. Provide us with clear photographs of the packaging and the damaged item(s). Couriers also require a copy of our invoice as proof of value to process claims. Please note: Claims cannot be processed without sufficient evidence or compliance with these requirements. Free Shipping to UK Mainland & EU We offer free shipping across the UK Mainland and EU. For deliveries outside these areas, please contact us for a custom shipping quote. Please note: EU customers may be required to pay local customs charges. These fees are the responsibility of the customer, and we advise checking with your local customs office before placing your order. Secure & Insured Shipping Your HandPan will be shipped using tracked and insured courier services. We only use legit invoices, and every shipment is fully covered for peace of mind. Instruments are packed suspended inside a double cardboard box to protect against impact during transit. While we don’t stock instrument cases at the moment, you are welcome to send your own case to us, or order a case and have it delivered directly to us before shipping your instrument. We recommend Hardcase Technologies – Evatek Medium cases for the best protection. Process Once your HandPan is ready for dispatch and the courier is booked, you’ll receive an email with your tracking number. Please double-check your shipping address and contact details before confirmation. On arrival, inspect the box carefully before signing for delivery. If there is visible damage to the box, take photos immediately. Unpack the instrument as soon as possible and check it thoroughly. Keep the box until you are 100% satisfied with your order. Also it may be useful for future tuning shipments. In Case of Damage If your instrument arrives damaged: Report it to us immediately – all courier damage claims must be made within 14 days of delivery (including the delivery date). Keep the packaging and instrument at the delivery address for courier inspection. Send us photographs of the packaging and damaged item to help resolve the claim. Please note: couriers require a copy of our invoice as proof of value to process claims. Returns & Refunds Each PanStream HandPan is handcrafted and carefully tested before dispatch. However, if you are not satisfied with your order, you may request a return within 14 days of receiving it. To qualify for a return: The instrument must be unused, in its original condition, and returned in the original packaging. Return shipping and insurance costs are the responsibility of the customer (unless the item is faulty or damaged in transit). Once we receive and inspect the instrument, we will confirm your refund status. Approved refunds will be processed to your original payment method within 7 days. Please note: We reserve the right to refuse returns that do not meet these conditions. All Posts PanStream   Back HandPan Shipping & Packing Read More The D Kurd HandPan – A Timeless Favourite for Players of All Levels Read More Hand-Hammered vs Air-Hammered HandPans Read More Load More End of Content.

The D Kurd HandPan – A Timeless Favourite for Players of All Levels

D Kurd scales by PanStream D Kurd HandPans – Warmth, Depth, and Musical Freedom When it comes to HandPan scales, few are as loved and versatile as D Kurd. Renowned for its emotional warmth, natural minor tones, and subtle Eastern inflections, it’s a scale that resonates deeply-whether you’re meditating, improvising, or composing. Beginner or veteran, this scale offers an intuitive, expressive layout that draws players into soulful, melodic exploration. Known for its warm, soulful voice and intuitive layout, the D Kurd is a scale that has captivated players around the world. Whether you’re just starting your HandPan journey or you’re an experienced musician seeking an expressive and adaptable instrument, the D Kurd delivers both emotional depth and creative freedom. What Makes the D Kurd Special? The D Kurd is based on the natural minor scale, giving it a beautifully emotive tone palette. It blends minor-key warmth with subtle Middle Eastern-inspired intervals, making it perfect for meditative soundscapes, expressive melodies, and rhythmic improvisations. Its intuitive note arrangement allows beginners to create flowing, harmonious phrases with ease, while still offering seasoned players the range and complexity needed for intricate compositions. The result is an instrument that feels equally at home in sound healing sessions, solo performances, or as part of an ensemble. Emotive and Versatile – Rooted in the natural minor, with a dash of Middle Eastern coloration, D Kurd evokes deep, rich sonic textures. Beginner-Friendly Layout – Notes are arranged for easy, harmonious play, encouraging creative flow from the very first touch. Expressive Range – Whether your music is soft and meditative or rhythmically complex, the D Kurd responds beautifully. PanStreams Popular D Kurd Variations At PanStream we offer the D Kurd scale in a variety of configurations to suit different playing styles and musical needs, and are available in both 440 Hz and 432 Hz tunings.. Some of most sought-after models include: D Kurd 10 – A compact, melody-focused setup ideal for beginners and travel-friendly playing. D Kurd 12 – Adds extra colour and harmonic options for chord progressions.  D Kurd 14 – Expands the range further for deeper exploration and dynamic playing. D Kurd 16+ – An extended range with deep bass notes and sparkling high tones for maximum versatility.  No matter which version you choose, you’ll enjoy the signature warmth, resonance, and responsiveness that make the D Kurd so beloved. Crafted with Precision and Ember Steel Made to Sound and Age Beautifully: Material: Ember steel for stability, resonance, and rich sustain Tuning: Meticulously hand-tuned for clarity and harmonic alignment Finish: Brushed or golden steel with natural patina over time Note about patina: You may notice spots forming on the surface over time. This is a natural feature of Ember steel and does not affect sound or performance. Read more about this in our patina post https://youtu.be/fIleA2UQhJ0?si=tca0uodZtcS7jyrBhttps://youtu.be/oQLu1zs2iUw?si=q7wQnfKZX1zwSHnRhttps://youtu.be/vbRTBzio6Y0?si=pybDdtoUAzNDZ0w-https://panstream.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WhatsApp-Video-2025-08-13-at-11.20.22_c0be2e33.mp4 Who is the D Kurd Scale Best Suited For? The D Kurd scale is an excellent choice for: Beginners – Its intuitive note layout means almost any combination of notes sounds harmonious, allowing new players to create beautiful melodies from day one. Sound Healers & Therapists – Its warm, resonant tones are ideal for meditative, relaxing soundscapes. Singer-Songwriters & Composers – The natural minor character offers emotional depth and works beautifully alongside vocals or other instruments. Experienced HandPan Players – The scale’s mix of diatonic and modal tones supports complex rhythms, layered harmonies, and improvisation. Ensemble Musicians – Pairs well with other HandPans and instruments, especially in acoustic, folk, or world-music settings. In short, the D Kurd scale is suited for anyone who values a scale that is easy to play yet rich enough for lifelong exploration. Ready to explore the soulful, expressive world of D Kurd? Learning the D Kurd – Compatible with the Marten Malte Method Our D Kurd HandPans are fully compatible with the Marten Malte Method of HandPan teaching – a proven learning system that helps players of all levels unlock their instrument’s potential.  Whether you’re following structured lessons or exploring your own sound, this method makes it easier to learn scales, rhythms, and creative playing techniques on the D Kurd. Find out more here and use code ‘PANSTREAM’ for 10% discount. Explore our D Kurd range All   Back 432Hz Tuning 440Hz Tuning HandPans 9 notes HandPans 12 notes HandPans 13 notes HandPans 14 notes HandPans 16 notes B Celtic D Kurd D Kurd 1+9+2 (12 notes) 440Hz D Kurd 1+9+2 (12 notes) 432Hz D Kurd 1+9+4 (14 notes) 440Hz

Hand-Hammered vs Air-Hammered HandPans

Handcrafted and Air-hammer shaped INSTRUMENTs what’s the difference? When it comes to crafting a high-quality HandPan, the technique used to shape the instrument has a profound impact on its tone, feel, and personality. At PanStream, we use both hand-hammering and air-hammering methods, depending on the design, material, and acoustic goals of the instrument. But what exactly is the difference between these two techniques? And how do they affect the final sound? What Is a Hand-Hammered HandPan? Hand-hammering is the traditional method of forming a HandPan. The maker uses a mallet or hammer to manually strike and shape the steel shell, tone fields, and central dome (ding). This method requires: Thousands of controlled strikes by hand Deep knowledge of how steel behaves under pressure Patience, precision, and a trained ear Advantages of hand-hammering: Warm, organic sound with rich overtones Greater control over tone field shaping Often seen as more “artisanal” or soulful https://panstream.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WhatsApp-Video-2025-08-13-at-22.57.21_bad4fe07.mp4 Hand-hammered PanStream HandPan: D Kurd 18 https://panstream.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WhatsApp-Video-2025-08-13-at-11.20.22_c0be2e33.mp4 What Is an Air-Hammered Handpan? Air-hammering (also known as pneumatic hammering) uses a mechanical tool that delivers thousands of rapid, consistent strikes to shape the steel shell. It’s a faster process and is commonly used to: Rough-form shells with high precision Prepare raw material before hand-finishing Produce more consistent results across batches Advantages of air-hammering: Faster production times More consistent shaping of shells Excellent for early-stage forming With the right skill and care, air-hammered pans can sound just as beautiful – especially when combined with fine hand shaping and tuning. Air-hammered PanStream HandPan: D Kurd 16 https://youtu.be/v0UlI7pfScw?si=Xsd7B3S08yRE3N6C A Quick Note on Factory-Pressed Handpans You may also come across HandPans that are mass-produced in factories using hydraulic presses or stamping machines. While they may look like HandPans, their acoustic quality is typically not comparable to handcrafted or air-hammered instruments. Sound Comparison: Hand-Hammered vs Air-Hammered While both methods can produce professional-grade instruments, the subtle differences in tone are what many players find fascinating. Hand-hammered HandPans often have: Softer attack Deeper harmonics A more “alive” or natural feel Air-hammered HandPans often sound: Clean and consistent Slightly brighter or more focused Ideal for modern, percussive playing styles Ultimately, the method is just one part of the story – the skill of the maker and the quality of tuning matter most. Which Is Better? At PanStream, we don’t believe one method is “better” than the other. Instead, we choose the approach based on: Desired tone and sustain Type of steel used Tuning goals Aesthetic and acoustic balance In fact, many of our instruments are made using a hybrid process: air-hammered for forming, then hand-hammered and hand-tuned for acoustic precision. Final Thoughts Whether you prefer the raw artistry of hand-hammered pans or the sleek precision of air-hammered instruments, both approaches offer beautiful, resonant results when crafted with care. Have a listen to both videos above and let your ears decide.

B Celtic HandPans – 440 Hz & 432 Hz

PanStream B Celtic 8 + 1 HandPan Discover the PanStream 21″ B Celtic 8+1 HandPan, handcrafted from Ember steel and tuned to the rich and meditative B Celtic scale B/ F♯, A, B, C♯, D, E, F♯, A that’s available in both 440 Hz and 432 Hz tunings. With 9 expressive notes and a warm, resonant tone, this HandPan is ideal for meditation, ambient music, or improvisation. Why Choose the B Celtic Scale? Tuned to the mystical B Celtic Minor scale B/ F♯, A, B, C♯, D, E, F♯, A, it’s a favourite among players for its peaceful and inspiring vibe.. this layout provides: A grounding ding note for rhythmic or meditative playing A harmonic flow ideal for ambient and Celtic-inspired music A forgiving and intuitive structure for both beginners and professionals Choose between: 440 Hz tuning – Standard concert pitch, perfect for ensemble play  432 Hz tuning – A deeper, softer feel often preferred for meditation and wellness work Both tunings offer the same layout, build quality, and expressive range, just a different frequency for different intentions. Crafted with Precision and Ember Steel Made to Sound and Age Beautifully: Material: Ember steel for stability, resonance, and rich sustain Tuning: Meticulously hand-tuned for clarity and harmonic alignment Finish: Brushed or golden steel with natural patina over time Note about patina: You may notice spots forming on the surface over time. This is a natural feature of Ember steel and does not affect sound or performance. Read more about this in our patina explanation post What Does It Sound Like? The B Celtic scale is one of the most requested for a reason: it’s deeply expressive yet easy to play. Expect a lush, immersive sonic experience with sustained, ringing overtones, balanced low-end, and bright mids with soothing and emotional character. The lush, calming, and resonant tone that works beautifully for: Solo improvisation Sound baths or therapy Yoga and wellness sessions Melodic exploration This HandPan sings whether played gently or with expressive dynamics. Experience the tone and feel of a HandPan that’s built with care, tradition, and sonic artistry. https://youtu.be/Db8Du0_7FPc?si=xVR1phLFgzTIeXoThttps://youtu.be/bkA1iI4pjzM?si=aH93fMcnoebtaKqP Who Is It For? Whether you’re drawn to the precision of 440 Hz or the earthy warmth of 432 Hz, this instrument is ideal for: Beginners wanting an intuitive and beautiful scale Experienced musicians seeking soulful, meditative tones Anyone who values craftsmanship and tonal beauty Explore B Celtic HandPans Now All   Back 432Hz Tuning 440Hz Tuning HandPans 9 notes HandPans 12 notes HandPans 13 notes HandPans 14 notes HandPans 16 notes B Celtic D Kurd B Celtic 1+8 (9 notes) 440Hz B Celtic 1+8 (9 notes) 432Hz

Why Your Handpan Has Spots – Ember Steel Explained

Understanding the Visual Spots on Your HandPan A Natural Part of the Ember Steel Journey We’ve received some inquiries regarding the appearance of small, light-colored spots or subtle stains on their HandPans – especially on the high notes or around the central tone field. If you’ve noticed something similar, please read on – you’re not alone, and your instrument is not defective. What Are These Spots? These marks are a natural result of the Ember steel material we use for our HandPans. While they may look like rust or oxidation at first glance, they are in fact part of the chrome-oxide layer that forms on the surface during the annealing (heat treatment) process. This oxide layer provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion. Even if scratched, it self-repairs almost instantly. So while these spots may change the visual appearance of the surface over time, they do not affect the sound, tuning, or durability of your instrument in any way. As explained by Ayasa, our shell manufacturer: “The patina on most Ember steel handpans is not stable and the instruments are likely to change colour. This does not affect the sound or tuning, it just creates a vintage look.” We embrace this natural process as part of the living character of each instrument. Every HandPan develops its own unique aesthetic over time – much like a well-loved acoustic guitar or aged violin. Why Do These Spots Appear? There are a few natural reasons: Heat treatment behaviour: The colouring and spots are part of the steel’s reaction to high temperatures. If the temperature exceeds around 390°C, it can cause visible variation in the oxide layer. Pre-treatment cleaning: If any oils, fingerprints, or residues are on the surface before annealing, they can leave behind visible marks. Less frequently touched areas: These spots often appear in areas not played often, like higher notes. Regular handling seems to keep other areas more visually stable over time. Is This Rust? No, it’s not rust. Ember steel is highly resistant to corrosion, and these marks are part of its natural aging and protection process. They are purely visual and do not compromise the integrity or acoustics of the handpan. How to Care for Your HandPan Use a light layer of handpan oil with a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid over-oiling or using abrasive materials. Store at room temperature and in a dry, stable environment. Handle with clean hands to minimize surface residue. A Note About Resellers We’re honoured that our instruments are available through trusted resellers in various regions. If you purchased your HandPan from a reseller, we kindly recommend reaching out to them directly for any initial support, service, or follow-up questions, as they are best equipped to assist you based on your purchase. Of course, if you’re unable to reach them or need help beyond what they can provide, we’re always happy to support where we can. Final Thoughts We believe in making instruments that age gracefully and carry their own unique character. These surface changes are part of the story and chemistry of Ember steel, and they do not impact your HandPan’s tone or longevity. Thank you for being part of our HandPan community. If you have further questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us or your reseller, depending on where your journey began.

Mark Wilson plays 18" HandPan on the beach

How to Play

Learn how to Play HandPan Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to deepen your skills, learning to play the handpan can be a deeply rewarding journey. This unique instrument combines rhythm and melody, allowing you to create beautiful, meditative music with just your hands. Why Learn the Handpan? The HandPan is one of the most intuitive and expressive instruments in the world. Its soothing tones and circular layout make it accessible to all, no prior musical experience required. From calming solo sessions to performing with others, the HandPan opens a world of creativity, mindfulness, and musical exploration. How to Get Started Starting your HandPan journey is easier than you might think. There are a number of high-quality online courses designed for beginners and experienced players alike. These structured lessons help you learn basic rhythms, develop musical flow, and understand scales, improvisation, and composition. Recommended Online HandPan Courses We’ve partnered with some of the best HandPan educators to bring you trusted learning resources. These HandPan learning programs offer: Step-by-step video lessons Practice routines and play-alongs Techniques for rhythm, touch, and musicality Lifetime access and self-paced learning Discount if you sign up via the links below ‘Panstream’ – 10% ‘Panstream’ – 10% ‘PANSTREAM’ – 50% These programs are ideal for anyone wanting to learn HandPan at home, at their own pace. Tips for Successful Learning Practice regularly – Even just 10–15 minutes a day makes a big difference. Play slowly – Focus on technique and tone rather than speed. Use headphones or a quiet space – Helps you connect more deeply with the sound. Record yourself – Listening back can reveal areas to improve. Join the HandPan CommunityThere’s a welcoming global HandPan community ready to support your musical journey. From workshops and retreats to online forums and YouTube channels, you’ll never feel alone as you learn. Ready to Begin? Explore our recommended HandPan courses and start playing today. Whether for relaxation, creativity, or connection, the HandPan is a joy to learn, and the journey starts here.

How to Care

Keep Your Handpan in Top Condition With the right care, your HandPan will continue to sound and look beautiful for years to come. Here are our essential tips for maintaining your instrument: Daily Care Wipe after each use – Gently remove moisture, oils, and fingerprints with a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid rapid temperature changes – Sudden shifts in heat or cold can affect the metal and tuning. Apply protective oil sparingly – Optional, but products like Phoenix Oil can help protect the surface. Use only a small amount and apply gently; avoid pressing directly on the notes. Always wipe away any excess to prevent build-up that may dull the tone. Cleaning & Rust Prevention From time to time, it’s a good idea to deep clean your HandPan: Use a mild alcohol-based cleaner (like isopropyl) to remove oil build-up and reduce the risk of rust. Avoid abrasive materials, harsh chemicals, or aggressive scrubbing. Focus on gentle care, preserving the surface, and tuning is key. What to Avoid To protect your HandPan from damage: Don’t drop or bang the instrument – even minor impacts can detune or dent the shell. Avoid extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or humidity. Never play with hard objects; use hands only to maintain their signature soft tone. Storage & Transport Tips Use a well-fitted case when moving your HandPan to prevent scratches and dents. Avoid long-term storage in closed bags – this traps moisture and can lead to corrosion and glue failure. Allow for occasional airflow during storage to let your HandPan “breathe.” Tuning & Refurbishment Over time, even the best-made HandPans may need tuning. If you notice a change in pitch or tone quality, get in touch – we’re happy to advise or connect you with a trusted HandPan tuner. Need help with maintenance or repairs?Contact us today – your HandPan is in safe hands.

How Its Made

How Its Made

How HandPans are Made The Craft Behind the Sound HandPans are more than musical instruments – they are resonant sculptures, shaped with care, precision, and a deep understanding of acoustics. At PanStream, every instrument is handcrafted by Mark Wilson in our Devon, UK-based workshop. Here’s a short look at how these unique instruments come to life. Choosing the Steel It all starts with high-quality steel. Most HandPans are made from either nitrided steel (known for its rust resistance) or stainless steel (favoured for its long sustain and warm tone). Each material affects the sound and feel of the final instrument. PanStream mostly works with Stainless Steel Forming the Shells The next step is forming two hemispherical shells. These are usually created by deep-drawing or hydroforming flat steel sheets into dome shapes. The top shell will hold the notes; the bottom shell becomes the resonant chamber. PanStream orders pre-made shells from Ayasa – Ember Steel Shaping the Notes On the top shell, each note area is carefully marked and shaped, creating what’s called a tone field. This involves precision hammering, by hand or with mechanical tools, to define the pitch, overtones, and responsiveness of each note. The central note (or ding) sits in the middle, surrounded by a circle of tuned tone fields. Heat Treatment and Tuning The shell is then heat-treated to harden the metal and improve tuning stability. After this, the instrument is tuned by hand, sometimes multiple times. The tuner listens closely and gently hammers the steel to refine the note’s fundamental tone, octave, and fifth harmonic. This stage requires great skill and patience – tuning is both a science and an art. Gluing the Halves Once tuning is complete, the top and bottom shells are glued together to form a sealed, resonant chamber. The bottom shell usually has a port or hole called “Gu“, which helps with projection and airflow. Final Tuning and Finishing After the glue has cured, the instrument goes through a final tuning session. The HandPan is then cleaned and polished, and coated with a protective layer. Then we do a final sound test before the instrument leaves the workshop. A Note on Handmade Instruments Each handpan is a one-of-a-kind creation. Subtle variations in hammering, material, and tuning contribute to the character of each instrument, no two are exactly alike. During the heat-treatment process, each piece also develops its own distinct coloration, shaped by the temperature and time in the oven. Because of this, specific colours can’t be guaranteed – every HandPan is naturally unique. Buying directly from a maker ensures not just quality, but also a more personal connection to the instrument you’re playing. Want to Know More? Curious about the process, or thinking of ordering a custom build?Contact us – we’re always happy to chat about the craft of HandPan making.

Shopping Basket
Wish-list We will inform you when the product arrives in stock. Please leave your valid email address below.
Scroll to Top