Frequently Asked Questions

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Support Email

info@yataoshop.com

Find answers to frequently asked questions here. Need more help? Just email us at info@yataoshop.com!

1. Shipping and Delivery

Don't worry, we are used to pack and ship handpans, also overseas! To ensure even more protection each Handpan is sold with our Yatao softbag. You can also choose to upgrade to our Namana soft  and hard cases, but this is not required for the shipment. Please be aware that shipment to a destination outside of Europe will require customs registration and thus may take a longer time period.

 

We ship with DHL and insure each package with at least 2500,-€. Read more about our shipping policies.

 

Generally speaking, the package size is around 60 cm x 60 cm x 55 cm (23.6 in x 23.6 in x 21.6 in) and weighs 12 to 14 kg (26.5~30.9 lb) depending on the handpan bag included. 

 

We prioritize minimizing our environmental footprint and actively engage in recycling a substantial amount of packaging materials. Our commitment to sustainability drives us to source the finest materials for our cartons, ensuring the optimal balance between eco-friendliness and product protection during shipping. While we don't reuse cartons to maintain the highest quality standards, we meticulously select materials that align with our eco-conscious ethos, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

 

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the delivery address. Generally speaking, shipping a handpan within the EU is approximately 100 Euros or less, whereas outside the EU is 100 Euros or more. You may find more references under the shipping policy section during checkout. Shipping costs for accessories only are much less and as little as 5 Euros depending on the item.

 

All Handpans are shipped with DHL and are always shipped with insurance up to at least 2500,- €.

 

Yes! You will get an email notification with the tracking number as soon as the package leaves the warehouse. Typically, this takes no longer than 2 days from placing an order.

In general shipping times are: 

  • EU: 3 - 7  working days 

  • US: 2 weeks 

  • Canada, Australia, Japan and other countries overseas: 3 weeks 

 

Generally speaking, the shipment will be arranged no later than 48 hours after the order payment is received, and a shipping confirmation email including the tracking number will be sent to you. For orders placed from outside the European Union,the process to arrange a shipping typically takes between 3 to 4 working days. However, please be aware that while we’ll do our best to handle all orders with the utmost efficiency, sometimes delays occur due to global events out of our control such as pandemic outbreaks, natural disasters, and so on. That said, we’ll do our best to work through difficulties to get your orders delivered as quickly as possible, and we thank you sincerely for your patience and understanding in the meantime.

 

2. Returns, Refunds and Warranties

We offer a 12-months full warranty for retuning on all YataoPans. This means we will cover the shipping, insurance and retuning costs in the first 12 months if the service is determined to be necessary. We will still support our customers after this period, please contact us for more details. 

 

For all other Yatao-Selected handpans offered by our marketplace, generally speaking the most makers offer the retuning service for free for an extended period of time, but the customer may have to cover the shipping costs. You can contact either us or the maker directly to discuss retuning needs. 

 

Yes, if the customer meets all these requirements:

  • The customer requests a cancellation within 14 days of purchase and makes reasonable efforts to return the product within this time period

  • The customer is a natural person who concludes a legal transaction for purposes that is not predominantly attributed to neither his commercial nor his independent professional activity

  • The customer and the delivery address is within the EU

If all conditions are met, a refund will be returned to the payment method used to make the original purchase. Please note, we may refuse to make any refund until we have received the goods back in its original condition, or until you have provided proof that you have returned the goods, whichever is earlier; The customer covers the return costs if any.

 

At the core of our values is a commitment to making the dream of owning a Handpan, one that truly resonates with you, a reality. We believe in the power of music to bring joy, and we want to ensure every Handpan enthusiast finds the perfect instrument that harmonizes with their spirit.

However, we understand that sometimes expectations might not meet reality. If, for any reason, you find yourself dissatisfied with your Handpan, we offer the possibility to cancel the purchase. We value open communication and believe in understanding the unique circumstances that led to this decision.

Please keep in mind that we do reserve the right to decline a refund for purchases made from countries outside the EU. We aim to maintain fairness and sustainability in our operations while striving to offer the best service to our global community of Handpan lovers.

If you have already received your Handpan and need to initiate a return, kindly note that the return shipping costs will be the responsibility of the customer in all cases. Our goal is to ensure that your Handpan experience is as smooth and delightful as possible, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

 

3. Ordering

The pricing structure depends on the country of your order. If you order from a country within the EU, all prices will include the local VAT rate. However, if you order from outside the EU, our prices will not include VAT or any other taxes.

In short: Yes! We are very happy to serve customers from all over the world. If your country is not available at the checkout , please get in touch!

 

Please be aware that there will be additional import custom charges from your country you will have to cover. We can assist but can not give exact information about every country, this is the case for e.g. US, Canada, UK (since brexit) and more.

 

All products we offer are either currently in stock or will be in stock within a clearly specified timeframe. However, it can happen that certain products are sold out. Since we have permanent cooperations with our partners, all handpans or equipment products will be available again in the foreseeable future! To stay informed about new products, follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter.

 

4. Understanding Handpans

Handpan, Hangdrum, Handtrommel, Pantam, Steeldrum, Spacedrum or just UFO? here are too many names of this instrument in circulation to be able to name them all. First of all, Hang ® (pl. Hanghang) is a patented description which can only be used by and for the first version manufactured by PANart. It is derived from the Swiss-German word for "hand", because unlike the steel drum played with mallets, the "Hang" is played with the hands. Steeldrums were invented in Trinidad in the 1930s and are traditionally made from oil drums. Unlike the convex shaped "Hanghang" they are concave. Names like Spacedrum, Bells, Halo, etc. are the names that other manufacturers gave to their instruments. Due to the fast spread over the internet and the high diversity of names for the instrument, the term "hangdrum" has become established over the years. In the global scene of players and manufacturers, however, "Handpan" and "Pantam" are the two most commonly used terms.

 

Major and minor keys are defined by their tonic note (their starting or base note) and their scale being major or minor. A major key uses a major scale, and a minor key uses a minor scale. For example a base note D and a minor scale result in an instrument tuned in D minor. For more detailed information we refer to Wikipedia.

The sound of the Handpan is generated by the vibration of the different membranes/sound fields that are incorporated on the surface of the tone. The larger the tone field, the deeper the sound, the smaller the tone field, the higher the sound.

 

The two steel shells glued to each other form a Helmholtz resonance body through the hole in the lower shell ("Gu"), which amplifies the sound of the entire instrument and is largely responsible for the far-reaching and full sound. Usually Handpans are tuned to 440 Hz, which is the contemporary concert pitch. Some instruments are tuned to 432 Hz, while others are tuned freely and without tuners (e.g. the Free Integral Hang). Unlike the chromatic steelpan, Handpans are tuned in a specific key. The fundamental, octave and fifth of the fundamental are tuned to each membrane. This peculiarity gives the Handpan its deep and rich sound characteristics.

 

No. Most handpans are diatonically tuned. Diatonic means that in contrast to chromaticism (on the piano all white and black keys) there is only one specific tone spectrum. This means that with a handpan in D minor, you can really play only D minor and is limited to those at least 8 tonal areas that adorn the instrument.

 

The complicated part starts with the different scales. For example, there is not only a D minor scale, but also various versions of the key. The intervals existing on the Handpan are changed. As we can see in the following example, both of the scales presented begin on the fourth (A) in the ring (letters after the hyphen; letter before the hyphen denotes the Ding). The scale "Kurd" goes well-behaved up all the natural note jumps of the D minor scale, whereas the scale "Celtic" omits the sixth, the "Bb".

 

Complete d-minor scale:

D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C

 

"D Kurd 8” scale:

D - A, Bb, C, D, E, F, G, A

 

“D Celtic 8” scale:

D - A, C, D, E, F, G, A, C

 

Skala “Mystic 8”

D - A, Bb, D, E, F, G, A, C

 

There are many different materials that can be used to make a Handpan. The most common steel is a special iron alloy called DC04, and PANArt used their own material called "Pang". A steel that is completely nitrided and has gone through many phases of heating and cooling. 

 

Nitrided steel was the most commonly used steel on the global manufacturing scene because it is easier to work with and is more stable and rust resistant in the end result. Nitrided steel Handpans has a shorter sustain compared to others. Now most makers work with stainless steel, which has become the standard material for handpans: Great sustain, very stable sound and no rust. 

 

Ember is the newest material developed by Ayasa and in our view the best material: it combines the characteristics of stainless steel (sustain & no rust) with those of nitrided handpans. 

 

Currently, the YataoPans come in both stainless steel and ember steel. The ember YataoPan is our newest product line made in Europe. YataoPan D Kurd 10 Ember is made from our favorite material and comes with a sweet and open timbre. Fully handmade with love and passion! Listen to it here.

 

Ember Steel, a variant of stainless steel, imparts a distinctive warmth to the handpan's sound. With its long, controlled sustain and non-metallic tonal qualities, it's ideal for slow, meditative playing. This material's resonance and responsiveness make it a favored choice among those who appreciate its stability, preventing overblowing when playing vigorously.

 

What makes Ember Steel special is that it doesn't sound like metal. Some handpans can sound a bit bright and shiny, but Ember Steel has a softer and more natural sound. It's great for creating peaceful and down-to-earth music.

 

Stainless Steel handpans are celebrated for their bright and vibrant sound. They are often louder than nitrided steel counterparts and can sustain notes for an impressive 4-6 seconds. This extended sustain makes them suitable for slow, meditative playing styles. 

 

However, their pronounced sustain may not be as well-suited for other musical genres or techniques. For instance, if you're looking to play fast and intricate melodies or engage in percussive techniques that require quicker note decay, you might find that Stainless Steel handpans are better suited for slower, more meditative compositions.

 

Nitrided handpans are recognized for their distinctive sound properties, which are a result of the nitriding process applied to the steel. Nitriding is a surface-hardening treatment that enhances both the durability and the tonal qualities of the handpan.

 

One key characteristic of nitrided handpans is their ceramic-like sound. This quality creates a hauntingly beautiful and ethereal tonal palette. When you play a nitrided handpan, you'll notice that the notes have a somewhat mystical and enchanting quality. This unique sonic character appeals to players looking to create music with an otherworldly and captivating allure.

 

Additionally, nitrided handpans typically exhibit relatively shorter sustain compared to handpans made from other materials like stainless steel. Sustain refers to how long a note continues to resonate after being struck. The shorter sustain of nitrided handpans can lend itself well to certain musical genres and playing techniques that require quick note decay.

 

5. How to choose a Handpan?

Should you go for a 8, 9 or even 14 note handpan? One thing right from the start: The number of notes a handpan has does not determine if the handpan is superior or inferior. Every correctly tuned Handpan sounds breathtaking with a little technique and practice!

 

The special sound of Yatao is created by the speed with which Malte and Alex play the instruments. The video below is a wonderful example of what a breathtaking sound is possible with an 8-tone Handpan.

 

In general, it can be said that the complexity of an instrument increases with the number of its sound surfaces. On the one hand, complexity describes the sound possibilities available to you with the higher number of notes. 

 

By using up to 16 instead of 8 notes, completely new and exciting harmonies and sound sequences become possible. You are more versatile and flexible when playing with others, and you can also give your virtuosity a truly new expression. 

 

On the other hand, complexity also describes the much more demanding use of the instrument - for example, tones lie on the back of the instrument. This makes it both more difficult to reach them and to strike them cleanly, the smaller diameter does not make this any easier.

 

In this video you can see that Malte has a higher freedom of sound and thanks to a higher number of tones he can play more complex melodies.

 

Of course, an instrument with a higher sound density is also much more demanding to produce. It is not without reason that not every Handpan maker has instruments with more than 14 tones in the portfolio. Therefore it can be generally stated that a more complex handpan is understandably also more expensive.

 

Note: The Ding is considered a note as well. Eg. an 8-note handpan has 7 tonefields around the Ding note.

 

All Yataopans and Yatao-selected handpans are 53 centimeters in diameter, making it relatively easier to maneuver while playing. Although traditionally, a Handpan has a diameter of about 53-56 centimeters, ie. 20.8-22 inches. On the one hand, this makes the handpan a relatively large, some might say sometimes unwieldy instrument. On the other hand, it is exactly this large sounding body that enables the typically pleasant and full sound. It is a special feeling to feel the hardly noticeable vibrations and the oscillations that are spread over this large sound body. For some time now, various makers have been trying to create these Handpan-typical timbres with a smaller sounding body. The smaller brothers and sisters of the traditional handpan are thus perfectly suited as an introductory instrument for children, teenagers or anyone who prefers a more compact instrument that is also easy to travel. There are not many makers who can produce such handpans. Check the Yatao shop to see availability on those mini pans. 

 

Prices for Handpans vary greatly depending on the maker, region, brand reputation, number of notes and quality. However, the price of a Handpan does not always reflect the quality of the instrument. Prices usually range from 1000€ to 2000€ for an "8 Noter", which means that there are 8 notes around the central note in the middle "Ding". Instruments with more notes, for example also on the lower shell, are often much more expensive since they are harder to manufacture. Usually there is a basic price of 8 or 9 notes and each additional note costs 100€ - 200€ more.

 

Since the market is still young, used but well-kept instruments which are still in tune or freshly tuned, are usually sold at almost the original purchase price.

 

For those who don't want to spend so much money, there are so-called "tongue drums". They have vibrating steel tongues that are cut into the surface, sound a bit duller and softer and have a much longer sustain (reverberation). Our recommendation for a tongue drum is the Russian-made RAV Vast.

 

In the last years of giving workshops we have learned that taste could not be more different and that we often try too much to find perfection. We find it more easy to also go with one's intuition:

 

What do you feel when you hear the sound of the respective Handpan? Which design do you feel attracted to? Listen to your feelings when you make your choice, then your playing will also be fulfilled by it.

 

Take your time and make YOUR choice. Your friends, family and even we can't help you with what feels right and suitable for you.

 

If you’re a first-time handpan buyer, we strongly encourage you to consider our Yataopans. They’re in the $1,000 range and built with both quality and price in mind. At Yatao we believe price levels should reflect the levels of quality. We do our best to offer our handpans to you without a big margin, so that more music lovers can afford their first handpan instrument.  This is what makes the YataoPan unique.

 

If your budget allows, of course you can go as high as $5,000 or more for a top-notch quality handpan, as these hand-made instruments take time to build and are not products of mass production. But please spend some time and do your research properly, and purchase from a reputable name brand, as there are a growing number of scams out there targeting first-time buyers since handpans are expensive purchases.

 

The short answer is no. The long answer is nooooooooooooo.

According to our friends from Master the Handpan, a rough pricing guide as of 2019, a standard handpan (7-8 notes) from a good maker would cost anywhere between $1,000 to $2,500 purchased new. It goes without saying if you’re looking for more notes, the price goes up significantly if not doubles or even triples. Is it possible to find a fair, second handpan under $500? Only if you’re lucky enough to find a generous first-hand owner who’s ready to part ways with a well-taken care of handpan originally purchased at a much higher price. It is going to be extremely unlikely to find a brand new handpan under $500 that provides lasting good sound quality. Take a look at this video made by handpan player Marcel Hutter, in which he shows you what a 500€ handpan bought from the internet sounds like.

 

The instrument is relatively new and has only been around for twenty some years. Because of this, top quality handpans are not mass produced. The handcrafting requires a lot of labor and time, while demand has grown much faster than supply over the years.

 

The handcrafting of a handpan is a labor-intensive and time-consuming task, often taking weeks, if not months, to complete. As a result, reputable handpan builders often have extensive order backlogs, leading to increased demand and higher prices. 

 

Many handpan companies, including our Yataopans, consist of just a few dedicated individuals, and some are single-person operations. This personalized craftsmanship ensures the creation of unique and high-quality instruments. 

 

While mass production of handpans does exist and has seen growth in recent years, the inherent nature of such operations often leads to cost-cutting measures in materials and labor. While these mass-produced handpans may serve as acceptable instruments for beginner-level players, they typically lack the authenticity and enchanting qualities found in handpans crafted with genuine craftsmanship at their core.

Typically speaking, handpans come in 440 Hz or 432 Hz frequency, while the first is more popular and widely available. When you listen to the same scale played on handpans with both frequencies, you'll notice that the handpan tuned to 432 Hz sounds slightly lower than the one tuned to 440 Hz, almost as if it's 'out of tune.'  

 

This difference in pitch is due to the overall lower frequency of 432 Hz. Interestingly, this lower frequency is actually preferred by a growing number of customers because some people believe that music tuned to 432 Hz has a healing effect.

 

In practical terms, if you're a solo player, you can choose either frequency based on your personal preference. However, if you plan to play with groups or jam with others, it's important to be aware that a handpan tuned to 440 Hz doesn't harmonize well with the sound of a 432 Hz pan, and vice versa.

 

As for the question of why there are different pitches for handpans, it primarily comes down to individual preferences and the perceived effects of different frequencies on the listening experience.

 

In the world of music and sound therapy, the choice of tuning frequency for instruments holds deep significance. One alternative to the standard 440 Hz tuning is the mystical and intriguing 432 Hz frequency. To understand how a Handpan tuned to 432 Hz affects the sound, it's essential to delve into the historical and cultural context surrounding this pitch.

 

In Western music, the prevailing standard for tuning musical instruments has long been 440 Hz. This frequency was officially adopted during the early 20th century as the international tuning standard, setting the pitch for everything from pianos to orchestral instruments. However, the quest for alternative frequencies that resonate with deeper spiritual and healing properties has led to the exploration of non-standard tunings, with 432 Hz being one such example.

 

In various therapeutic, shamanic, and healing practices, instruments tuned to 432 Hz have a rich tradition. Advocates of this tuning argue that it is more in harmony with the natural frequencies found in the universe and resonates with the Earth's own vibrational frequency. This belief is rooted in the idea that 432 Hz is connected to sacred geometry and has a profound impact on the human psyche and emotions.

 

Now, turning to the effect of a handpan tuned to 432 Hz on its sound, it's important to note that this frequency is slightly lower than the standard 440 Hz. Consequently, when you play a handpan tuned to 432 Hz, the music it produces will generally sound just a tad lower in pitch. Some listeners describe this as a more "cosmic" or "heavenly" quality, attributing it to the perceived alignment with natural harmonics and a sense of greater resonance with the universe.

 

In summary, a handpan tuned to 432 Hz affects the sound by producing music at a slightly lower pitch compared to the conventional 440 Hz tuning. This difference in pitch is part of a broader philosophical and spiritual exploration of sound frequencies and their potential effects on human consciousness and well-being. Whether you find it more harmonious or not ultimately depends on your personal perception and connection to the mystical properties attributed to this unique tuning.

 

6. Handpan scales

There are hundreds of scales, and each one has its own unique sound and flavor! Many makers also invent their own names for already named scales, thus a jungle of terms has been created, which makes it difficult to understand sometimes. Read on to learn more about the most common scales and the most suitable ones for beginners.

 

Kurd / Annaziska: 

For us one of the most varied minor scales. In D minor and E minor it is called "Kurd", in C sharp (C#) it is called "Annaziska". Here we learn what harmonic diversity means, because even on an 8 notation 6 full chords can be played here. From dreamy to mystical to happy and hopeful. With a Kurd / Annaziska you can express all your feelings. Here Malte plays on a C# Annaziska Handpan by Gio.

 

Celtic / Amara:

The Celtic Minor or Amara is based on the scale that is common in traditional Celtic music. The absence of the sixth makes this scale even more intuitive and harmonious. Suitable for every beginner. Here is the sound example of a D Amara Handpan from Gio, which you can also find in our store.

 

Mystic:

For Malte and Alex, the scale "Mystic" was our beginner model. A mystic atmosphere is created by the missing seventh. Ideal for a flowing, rhythmic playing.

 

Pygmy:

Due to the pentatonic the Pygmy is a very harmonic scale, which invites you to dream and float away. A touch of melancholy that shines through the player as if in a dream. This impression is confirmed in the following video by Malte, in which he enhances his Pygmy Handpan with effects.

 

Low Pygmy:

A deeper variation of the "Pygmy", starting at the second in the ring around the Ding. This requires a different way of playing, which in our eyes is especially suitable for melodic playing. We recommend it to advanced players. For pure Low Pygmy sounds listen to the song by Yatao, in which Malte and Alex each play on an F Low Pygmy Handpan:

 

Asha / Ashakiran:

"Asha" is literally translated as "hope", and "Ashakiran" as "ray of hope". She animates cheerful, light, melancholic, hopeful melodies. While the Asha classical has only 8 tones on the upper shell, the Ashakiran is extended by a ninth tone on that one and receives at least three tones on the lower shell. Especially the second and third in the lower range and the fourth in the upper, complete the already rich Asha to a Handpan that leaves nothing to be desired. The following video by Yatao, in which Malte and Alex play the D Ashakiran Handpan by Ayasa, offers you a very nice insight into the Ashakiran sounds.

 

Hijaz:

We often describe them with the adjective "spicy". The little second between first and second stage is responsible for the fact that a typical oriental sound is created. Suitable for percussive playing and oriental or even Spanish sounding melodies. See video here

 

Harmonic minor:

This scale is also a bit "spicy". The tone structure is similar to that of the "Kurd" or "Annaziska", except that here the seventh is increased and thus gives the oriental flavor. On this scale you can play wonderfully melodic as well as percussive. In combination with a digeridoo, you can listen to a Soulshine C Hijaz Handpan here.

If you mainly want to play together with other people, a "D minor" Handpan is recommended. Classical scales are "Kurd", "Amara" or "Celtic Minor", "Mystic". This key is very popular and widespread in Western Europe, which makes it easy to play together.

In other parts of the world, for example, Arabic scales like 'Hijaz' or 'Harmonic Minor' are more in demand.

 

There are really no right answers to this question as it very much depends on personal tastes and how much you plan to play, practice, or jam with others with your first handpan. The short answer is you should choose a scale that fits your budget and is the most pleasant to your ear.

 

Of course, that might not really answer your question if you like almost all of the scales you have listened to and can’t make up your mind!

 

For simplicity’s sake, we’ll provide a few pointers for you to consider:

 

Avoid complicated scales or ‘mutants’. You might really like how sophisticated it sounds, but it’s wise to start simple as a beginner as it will make the learning journey a lot easier and encouraging. The less frustration you have the more likely you’ll want to keep learning and get better. Furthermore, the more elaborate the scales are the more expensive it tends to be especially for top quality handpans. 

 

Decide on the pitch. When it comes to tuning and debating between 432 Hz and 440 Hz,  it's important to consider the practical aspect. While some players prefer the harmonious and calming effects of 432 Hz, others prefer the standard tuning of 440 Hz, which is more common and widely available. The compatibility and your collaborative musical experience may be a bit limited if you choose to buy a 432 Hz handpan.

 

Over the years, many beginners have chosen to start with  a D Kurd scale, among the reasons, the most obvious are:

 

  • Learning Materials: The Kurd scale offers abundant learning resources like tutorials, sheet music, and videos. Malte’s courses are also taught with a D Kurd handpan.

  • Simple Layout: With 8-9 notes and no gaps, the Kurd scale's straightforward layout suits beginners and is easy to navigate for the hands.

  • Natural Minor Base: Rooted in the natural minor, the Kurd scale's adaptability lets beginners explore diverse styles and it’s still easy to play in the relative major. 

 

Other scales that are relatively easy to ‘tame’: AmaRa (minor), Kurd (minor), Magic Voyage (minor), AnnaZiska (minor), Equinox (minor) and Pygmy (minor).

The lowest center note (the ding) commonly found on these scales are:

 

  • AmaRa: C # or D

  • Kurd: D

  • Magic Travel: F

  • AnnaZiska: C # or D

  • Equinox: E

  • Pygmy: F

 

Obviously you should follow your heart and let your ears tell you what scales are the most pleasant to you. However, we understand when faced with so many amazing scales and styles, choosing can admittedly be very difficult!! If you find yourself in this situation, consider some or all of the suggestions below. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to choose, but these tips could help to ensure a harmonious and fulfilling musical experience.

 

Compatibility:

 

  • Your second Handpan should harmonize with your existing one.

  • A complementary Handpan simplifies musical harmony.

  • Ensure both Handpans share the same pitch (e.g., both 440Hz or both 432Hz) to play them together seamlessly.

 

Scale Selection:

 

  • Choose a scale that resonates with your preferences.

  • Opt for a scale that complements your current Handpan's scale to explore harmonic possibilities.

  • Alternatively, embrace a completely different scale for a broader tonal range. Different scales can complement each other by filling gaps, allowing you to play more notes.

 

Upgrading Your Experience:

 

  • Consider this second Handpan as an opportunity to upgrade your musical journey.

  • If your first Handpan wasn't top quality, investing in a higher-tier handpan, such as Ayasa, YataoPan extended Handpans or MAG, can greatly elevate your overall Handpan experience.

 

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to choose a second Handpan. Follow your heart, listen to your ears, and let your personal preferences guide you in creating harmonious and fulfilling music.

 

7. Exploring our Yataopans.

We have two kinds of YataoPans. One uses stainless steel and the other ember steel. The Ember YataoPan is our newest product line made in Europe. YataoPan D Kurd 10 Ember is made from our favorite material and comes with a sweet and open timbre. Fully handmade with love and passion! Listen to it here.

 

We want to create a more transparent market within the handpan world by offering handpans of different quality to different conditions. We believe that the quality should be represented by the price.

 

For years we have had the vision in mind to hold a handpan in our hands that carries our name on it! The ever growing market around these beautiful instruments became opaque, especially for those of you who are new to the handpan. Which scale to take, which maker to ask - and most importantly - what quality will I get, if I purchase a certain instrument? There is no transparency given, due to a non availability of complete information plus weird price policy within the whole handpan world. You can find high quality instruments for the same high price as low quality handpans.

 

The YataoShop was the first attempt to represent and provide high quality instruments to y'all. With the YataoPan we want to extend the variety of quality and offer you a decent instrument for a fair price.

 

Get your YataoPan D Kurd 10 or D Kurd 13 including the Yatao softbag. Purchase now and get your YataoPan D Kurd 10 right away.

 

Listen to the D Kurd 10 here (ember steel) and here.

Listen to the D Kurd 13 here and here.

 

D Kurd 10

D -  A, Bb, C, D, E, F, G, A, C

 

D Kurd 13

D - (F), (G), A, Bb, C, D, E, F, G, A, C, (D)

 

Diameter: 53 cm

To make sure that your YataoPan keeps its brownish surface we recommend to regularly treat your instrument with our “HandPan Care Pack” we added to your YataoPan.

 

1. Clean your Handpan with kitchen paper and alcohol or the microfiber cloth we added.

2. Oil the surface with an oil (we recommend and use 'Phoenix Handpan Oil') so that the entire surface shines. Do not forget the corners and edges, as rust can easily adhere to them.

3. Wipe off the excessive Phoenix Oil with your microfiber cloth.

 

To keep the instrument clean for longer you can use the microfiber cloth exclusively for your Handpan and oil it after playing with the residual oil in it. Corrosion of the surface due to humidity, salts and oxygen is normal and not avoidable.

 

8. Learn how to play Handpan

Contrary to many other musical instruments, the Handpan is notably easy to pick up. This holds true for both seasoned musicians and individuals who may consider themselves musically untrained or untalented. One key reason for its approachability is the limited number of notes available on a handpan and its inherent quality of always being harmonious. With a handpan, there are no "wrong notes" to hit, thanks to its well-tempered design. While mastering the precise striking techniques may require some practice, maintaining motivation and enthusiasm throughout the learning process comes naturally. What's more, the Handpan produces pleasing sounds relatively quickly, making it an enjoyable experience for both the player and those fortunate enough to listen.

 

You don't need prior musical training or knowledge of music theory to play the handpan. Each handpan is tuned to a single musical scale, eliminating the worry of hitting wrong notes. This makes the handpan accessible to everyone, whether you're a seasoned musician or a complete novice.

 

Many first-time players are pleasantly surprised by how quickly they can make significant progress, unlike other instruments that may take longer to master. This rapid learning curve is one of the reasons why the handpan attracts people from all walks of life. It's a truly fulfilling experience to listen to yourself playing beautiful melodies after only a few months of self-teaching, even if you have no previous music training.

 

9. Exploring Yatao-selected Handpans.

The Handpan scene has tremendously grown in the last years. Enthusiastic newcomers as well as professional musicians have learned to play and appreciate Handpans. You can find Handpans as part of orchestras, in the electronic music scene or like Yatao as an independent instrument in world music or ambient acoustic.

 

As the demand for handpans is constantly growing, a variety of manufacturers have appeared on the market. Different designs, materials, scales and sizes offer a wealth of customization and unique selling points for the different makers. This is a wonderful development and gives us handpan players new ways to integrate the instrument into genres and compositions. Handpans are demanding instruments to manufacture and the craft is an art in itself. Handpan makers who master their art are still rare and often the instruments are sold out months in advance. Despite the increasing popularity, high quality Handpans remain exclusive. 

 

That's why we created the Yatao-Shop. Our goal is to make it easy to get access to the best handpan makersand to explain the art and intricacies behind the Handpan as vividly as possible. This makes the Yatao-Shop unique. 

 

You can find the complete list of handpan selections in our marketplace here. At the time of writing, we offer several other brands besides YaotaoPan, such as Ayasa, Gio, and Manik. 

 

One thing is clear: Taste is always subjective and we cannot guarantee that we will always meet yours. But we promise that we will make an effort! That's exactly why transparency is important to us. When selecting products in the Yatao-Shop, we draw on our many years of experience in the industry. We try to describe our experiences, hints, tips & tricks in detail, so that you can find the best fitting Handpan for you.