Handpan vs. RAV Vast: Which Is Right for You?
Hello Friends,
A handpan and a RAV Vast can both be used for melodies, rhythms, and complete songs, but they produce their sound differently. A handpan has shaped and tuned tone fields based off compression, while a RAV Vast has cut steel tongues, tuned via weight/size.
That difference affects the sound and the response under your hands.
I play and teach both instruments, and I am a sponsored RAV artist.
My advice is to choose by listening, trying each style where possible, and thinking about the music you want to make.
How does the sound compare?
First thing's first:
Ravs are NOT handpans. Handpans are steel pan derived instruments, tuned with a hammer, using a tone field compressed to contain and a fundamental, octave and compound 5th.
Rav Vasts are steel instruments, tuned by the size and cuts in the tongues. Ravs have 4-7 harmonics tuned into each note, including the octave and 5th.
As a result of this, the Rav can have a much more harmonic rich and sustain filled sound than some handpans.
Notes can continue ringing as you move into the next phrase, making the spaces between strikes an important part of the music.
Handpans vary considerably between makers, materials, and individual instruments. Some have a shorter, drier response; others ring for a long time.
As we will discuss in a future article, Stainless steel or Nitrided steel,as well as tuning style, greatly affects the sustain.
It is worth comparing a specific handpan with a specific RAV Vast, rather than assuming every handpan sounds alike.
Listen to slow melodies and rhythmic playing on each.
A beautiful sustained note tells you something different from a busy passage.
You want to hear how the instrument responds in the kinds of music you enjoy.
Does one feel easier to play?
Both require you to learn an appropriate touch.
Where and how you strike affects the tone, and striking without bouncing off the note will cause muting on both styles of instruments.
The techniques overlap, but they are not identical.
Give yourself time to adjust if you move between them.
A pattern you know well may feel unfamiliar simply because the layout or response has changed.
I would not choose an instrument only because someone calls it easier.
Choose a sound you want to spend time with, then learn how to bring that sound out consistently.
How important is the scale?
Very important. The scale determines the notes available to you, and different layouts offer different possibilities for melody and accompaniment.
If you hope to learn a particular song, check that the necessary notes are there.
For covers a Major scale or a Kurd are the best choices. That said, handpans are not really layed out for covers, unless you choose a scale with more chromatic potential.
A familiar scale name alone may not tell you the full layout or range.
When comparing instruments, look for the exact note list.
Also think about whether you want to play alone, follow specific lessons, or make music with another person. Those goals can affect which tuning is useful.
What should I compare before buying?
The sound of the actual instrument or model.
Its complete note layout and range.
Comfort, size, and carrying needs.
Total cost, including a suitable case and shipping.
Maker guidance on care, service, and repairs. (Ravs are not easily de-tuned, handpans, with care, hold tuning for many years. Handpans will eventually need to be re-tuned by a local tuner.
Does the instrument rust? If you live in an area with lots of humidity, coated, or stainless steel Ravs/ handpans are your best options for easy care.
Whether teaching is available for your instrument and scale. (It is! I teach on all) Start learning here: https://www.rewildyoursoulmusic.com/book-online
Recordings can help, but microphones, effects, and rooms change what you hear.
Look for clear demonstrations with minimal processing, and try an instrument in person when possible.
Visit my youtube channel for many comparisons and guides:
Which would I recommend?
Start with the sound that keeps drawing you back. Then check that the instrument fits your musical goals and practical needs.
You can learn thoughtfully, develop technique, and compose on either one.
How you connect with a Rav or handpans is far more important than material, maker, or tuning.
If you want help deciding, get in touch with the instruments you are considering. If you already own one, explore lessons for your handpan or RAV.
Remember, Rewildyoursoul.
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