Top 5 Handpan Tunings
Choosing your first handpan tuning can feel overwhelming. The truth is, there’s no single “best” scale — each one creates its own mood and story. Here we’ll walk through five of the most popular tunings: the ones you’ll hear in tutorials, jam sessions, and countless recordings online.
And remember — scales are personal. What feels soulful to one person might feel grounding to another. Let these descriptions guide you, then listen to each sound for yourself.
1. D Kurd – The Beginner’s Best Friend
Notes: D / A Bb C D E F G A
Why it’s popular: The most forgiving and versatile scale. Almost every lesson for beginners uses D Kurd or D Celtic, and you’ll hear it in many well-loved handpan pieces. (Great price — our best-selling RIZA Beginner Series 10-note models start from $599.)
How it feels: Emotional, soulful, and adaptable. Sometimes nostalgic, sometimes powerful.
Product: https://littlekalimbashop.com.au/products/handpan-10-note-d-kurd-beginner-blue-432hz-55cm
2. D Celtic Minor (Amara) – Dreamy & Hopeful
Notes: D / A C D E F G A C
How it feels: Nostalgic, uplifting, almost like harp music.
Best for: Relaxation, yoga, and folk-inspired playing.
Product: https://littlekalimbashop.com.au/products/ugur-handpan-9-note-d-celtic-432-hz-bronze
3. F# Pygmy / F low Pygmy – Tribal & Hypnotic
Notes:
F# Pygmy (F#3 / A3 – C#4 – E4 – F#4 – A4 – C#5 – E5 – F#5)
F low Pygmy (F3 / G3 – G#3 – C4 – D#4 – F4 – G4 – G#4 – C5)
How it feels: Earthy, primal, grounding. A hypnotic rhythm that pulls you into flow.
Best for: Meditation, sound healing, trance-like grooves.
Product: https://littlekalimbashop.com.au/products/handpan-9-notes-f3-pygmy-premium-432hz
4. C# Pygmy – Deep & Soulful
Notes: C#3 / E3 – G#3 – B3 – C#4 – E4 – G#4 – B4 – C#5
How it feels: Warm, heartfelt, intimate. Like playing by candlelight.
Best for: Emotional ballads and slow meditations.
Product: https://littlekalimbashop.com.au/products/yula-handpan-15-note-c-pygmy-440hz-432hz-55cm
5. D Aegean – Romantic & Bright
Notes: D3 / A3 – B3 – C4 – D4 – E4 – F4 – G4 – A4
How it feels: Gentle and uplifting, with a hint of mystery.
Best for: World music and joyful, meditative moods.
Quick Comparison Table
Scale |
Mood & Feel |
Best For |
|
D Kurd |
Soulful, versatile, forgiving |
Beginners, tutorials, all-round |
|
D Celtic |
Dreamy, hopeful, nostalgic |
Relaxation, yoga, folk-like |
|
F Pygmy |
Tribal, hypnotic, earthy |
Meditation, rhythmic flow |
|
C# Pygmy |
Deep, soulful, comforting |
Emotional, intimate playing |
|
D Aegean |
Romantic, uplifting, gentle |
World music, meditative joy |
Honourable mention – E Amara 20-note
The E Amara 20-note double-sided handpan is getting a lot of attention lately, thanks in part to YouTuber Mart Martel whose popular videos feature this versatile tuning. It’s not quite beginner-friendly and sits at a higher price point, but it’s an exciting option for players wanting a wider range. We’re currently testing 20-note E Amara models from several makers and will share updates when they’re ready—contact us if you’d like to be notified.
Final Thoughts
The best handpan tuning is the one that resonates with you. For beginners, D Kurd is the most forgiving and versatile option. But if another scale stirs something in you — follow that.
Close your eyes, listen to the sound of each scale, and notice which one makes your heart say “yes.” That’s the handpan for you.
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