Choosing your handpan scale

Choosing a scale is the first step in your journey with Chirp Handpans. It is the most important decision you will make, because the scale is the “soul” of the instrument.

Unlike a piano or guitar, a handpan is tuned to a specific set of notes. Each scale creates a distinct atmosphere, evokes different emotions, and tells a different story. Some are uplifting and sunny, while others are deep, mysterious, and introspective.

There is no “right” or “wrong” choice—only the sound that resonates with you.

Two Ways to Discover Your Connection

We believe you should feel the music before you hold the metal. Here are two ways to find the scale that speaks to you.

1. The Virtual Experience

Since there are hundreds of scales in the world, it can be hard to know where to start. We built our Virtual Handpan Simulator to let you explore different sounds from the comfort of your home. Tap the notes, hear the harmonies, and see which scale sparks joy.

2. Deep Listening

Sometimes, you just need to close your eyes and listen. The best way to choose a scale is to listen to it being played professionally. We have curated a library of sound demos on our YouTube channel to help you feel the difference between the scales.

Our Top Recommendations for Beginners

If you are starting your journey, or if you are a percussionist looking for the most versatile instrument, we recommend starting with one of the “Big Two.” These scales are timeless, intuitive, and widely loved.

1. The Storytellers:

The D Kurd

Also known as the Aeolian Mode or Natural Minor.

This is the “Swiss Army Knife” of handpan scales. Popularized by artists like Sam Maher, Yatao, and Hang Massive, this scale feels complete, balanced, and deeply emotive. It allows you to play both mysterious, meditative melodies and upbeat, rhythmic grooves. It is the perfect choice for versatility.

Listen to the magic:
- [D Kurd 9 | [Order Now]
- [D Kurd 10 | [Order Now]
- [D Kurd 20 | [Order Now]

2. Pure Bliss: The Celtic Minor

The sound of inner peace.

Popularized by Daniel Waples, the Celtic Minor is perhaps the most beginner-friendly scale in existence. It has a beautiful, earthy, and Celtic quality that sounds ancient and profound. It is designed so that there are no wrong notes—no matter how you play it, it sounds harmonious. If your goal is relaxation, yoga, or intuition, this is your scale.

Listen to the magic:
- [D Celtic Minor – Watch Video] | [Order Now]
- [C# Celtic Minor – Watch Video] | [Order Now]

3. The Meditator: The D Hijaz

The sound of the desert wind.

If you are looking for a sound that transports you to another place and time, the Hijaz scale is your gateway. Known as the “Middle Eastern” or “Phrygian Dominant” scale, it is instantly recognizable for its exotic, cinematic, and deeply passionate character.

Unlike the peaceful Celtic Minor or the balanced Kurd, the Hijaz is filled with tension and release. It evokes images of ancient dunes, caravans, and deep mystery. It is incredibly expressive, perfect for players who want to create music that is dramatic, rhythmic, and full of fire.

[D Hijaz – Watch Video] | [Order Now]

4. The Professional: 20/21 Note Handpans for Advanced Musicians

Limitless possibilities for the serious composer.

For the advanced musician who refuses to be boxed into a single scale, we present our Masterpiece Series. These 20 and 21-note instruments are engineering marvels, essentially placing two or three handpans into one vessel.

By utilizing both the top shell (the “Ding” side) and the bottom shell (the “Gu” side), these instruments unlock extended diatonic ranges. This means you are no longer limited to a simple mood; you can change keys, modulate, play complex ragas, and perform full compositions that were previously impossible on a standard handpan.

The “Mutant” Layout: These instruments feature an extension of a standard layout on top (usually a Kurd or Celtic Minor) for familiar playability, while the bottom shell houses the “gaps” in the scale—giving you the sharps, flats, and bass notes needed for total freedom.
Who is this for? This is the ultimate tool for professional percussionists, pianists transitioning to handpan, and composers who need a full range of expression.
Craftsmanship Note: Tuning 21 notes on a single shell requires a master’s touch to ensure zero interference (crosstalk). These are our most advanced, precision-crafted instruments.
Listen to the magic:
- [21 Note F Low Pygmy– Watch Video] | [Order Now]
- [20 Note D Kurd– Watch Video] | [Order Now]

Understanding the Specs

Number of Notes: Why 9 and 10 are the Magic Number for Beginners

For your first handpan, we highly recommend a 9-Note/10-note Instrument (often called 8+1 and 9+1: 1 center “Ding” + 8/9 Tone Fields).

Clarity & Sustain: This layout offers the perfect amount of spacing between notes (“crosstalk”), ensuring that each note rings out clearly with a pure, long sustain.
Playability: With more space on the shell, it is easier to strike the notes accurately, making the learning curve much faster for beginners.
Tutorial friendly: Most handpan teachers who can guide you to learn the instrument online and offline often use a 9/10 not instrument through the beginner and intermediate level tutorials.
Expansion: While we can craft instruments with more notes (bottom notes or “mutants”) to unlock wider ranges, the 9 and 10 note handpans remains the gold standard for clarity and ease of play.

Reference Frequency: 440Hz vs. 432Hz

Which vibration fits your life?

Standard Pitch (A4=440Hz): This is the modern music industry standard. If you plan to play with other musicians (pianists, guitarists, flute players) or jam with other handpan players, choose 440Hz. It ensures you are always in tune with the world around you.
The Healing Pitch (A4=432Hz): Many sound healers and meditators believe this frequency is more aligned with the natural vibration of the universe and the Heart Chakra. If your handpan is solely for solo meditation and sound therapy, 432Hz is a beautiful choice.