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Never asked questions (NAQ)

Q: What does the tuning of a Baur&Brown Handpan cost?

The retuning of an undamaged Baur&Brown Handpan costs 75 euros plus the exact shipping costs. There may be additional costs if the handpan is damaged.
This offer only applies to our own instruments.


Q: Can I retune my handpan myself?

No. In steeldrum circles we say, 'never give your instrument for retuning to someone with less than 10 years experience, since they will most likely ruin it.'
The tuning of a handpan is a complex matter and can only be done by an experienced tuner. A Baur&Brown Handpan can only be tuned by us, we do not take responsibility for the poor work of a third party.


Q: What kind of consequences do extreme temperatures have on handpans?

Since all handpans consist completely of metal direct sunlight can cause the handpan to become so hot one could fry an egg on it. The metal also expands in the warmth, so that the notes of the drum become lower. On the contrary, the notes tend to become higher in extreme cold, as the metal contracts.
When a handpan cools off or reaches room temperature, the notes usually go back to normal again.
Nevertheless, one should never play in direct sunlight but always in the shade and preferably not outside on the North Pole.


Q: What is the best way to store a Baur&Brown Handpan?

It is not recommended to store the handpan in a bag or a hard case, since moisture, that may be in or on a handpan, cannot escape, which can lead to problems with rust.
If you do not intend to play for an extended amount of time, you should preferably look for a safe and cool place where the handpan can be stored and possibly cover it with a light piece of cloth to protect it from dust.


Q: Is there a risk of rust with the Baur&Brown Handpan?

The Baur&Brown Handpans that are not made of stainless steel can rust if these are not cared for sufficiently. This means that it should be dried with a soft cloth after every playing session, especially after having played outside.
Since handpans are played by hand, sweat becomes an additional risk, as it can react very aggressively when coming in contact with metal.


Q: Can I purchase a stand for the Baur&Brown Handpan?

There are floorstands available, specially made for the Baur&Brown Handpan, for playing seated or standing. They are constructed to protect the surface of the lower dome. We cannot accept responsibility for damage to the paintwork caused by the use of unsuitable standard snaredrum or similar stands.
You can order a proper stand for your handpan on our page with handpan accessories.


Q: What is the best place for a handpan to be put when it is not being played?

Never lay the Baur&Brown Handpan face down onto the playing surface. The pressure on the notes will cause it to eventually go out of tune. A guitarist or violinist would never place their instruments face down on the strings. A keyboard player would not lay their keyboard down on the keys. Don't do this with your Baur&Brown Handpan.
It is also not recommended to lay the handpan on asphalt or rough ground that can scratch the lower surface. When you make a pause during a playing session, you should put the handpan into a hard case or place it on a soft case or any other soft surface.


Q: Which hardcase or flightcase can be used for a Baur&Brown Handpan?

It is extremely important that the handpan sits snugly in the case and does not rattle around but it is equally important that there is absolutely no pressure on the playing surface when the case is closed. Permanent pressure on the notes will definitely result in the handpan going out of tune. Baur&Brown cases are specially made for a perfect fit for our instruments. When buying elsewhere please make certain that the case is suitable for the instrument and that no force, however slight, is needed to close the lid.
For smaller routes of transport we offer you a proper handpan soft case.

Handpans by Baur & Brown