Frequently asked questions
Why should I buy a One Human Rhythm handpan?

OHR isn’t just a company — it’s a movement.

Founded by Dan and Bonnie, OHR was born from a shared mission: to help people reconnect to their bodies, creativity, and inner peace through rhythm and sound.

For Dan, music isn’t just art — it’s a calling.

The handpan is a vessel for that purpose — a way to awaken emotion, calm the mind, and help people reconnect to the light within.

Every instrument helps expand this mission — empowering more people around the world to experience the healing power of rhythm and presence.

When you buy a One Human Rhythm handpan, you’re not just buying an instrument. You’re joining a movement — one that’s redefining what music, connection, and creativity can mean.
What scale or tuning should I start with?

If you’re new to the handpan, we recommend the D Kurd scale.

It’s deeply emotional, intuitive, and versatile — perfect for beginners yet expressive for advanced players.

Every note harmonizes beautifully, so you can’t play a wrong note.

If you’re unsure which scale matches your energy, Dan personally helps each customer choose their perfect sound.
What’s the difference between 432 Hz and 440 Hz tuning/frequency?

440 Hz is the standard tuning used in most modern music. 432 Hz is slightly lower (about 32 cents), making the instrument sound a touch softer and deeper. The overall character of the scale stays exactly the same — it’s simply in a slightly lower pitch “world.”

Sound Difference:

  • 440 Hz: brighter, more forward.
  • 432 Hz: warmer, slightly softer.

Practical Difference:

  • Choose 440 Hz if you want to play with other musicians, instruments, or backing tracks — everything in modern music is tuned to 440.
  • Choose 432 Hz if you mainly play solo, for meditation, yoga, or sound-healing sessions. It won’t match standard instruments, but many people enjoy the gentler feel.

About the “healing” claims:

There’s no strong scientific evidence that 432 Hz is more healing than 440 Hz — the difference is simply a small shift in pitch. However, many people subjectively find 432 Hz more grounding or relaxing, which is why it’s popular in wellness settings.

In short:

Both tunings sound beautiful. 440 is ideal for playing with others; 432 gives you a slightly softer, lower version of the same handpan for solo or wellness work.
How are your handpans made?

Our handpans made to order, so each one is handmade and hand-tuned by experienced professional handpan makers.

Each instrument is crafted with care, tuned by hand to ensure clarity and stability, and fully sound-tested before it is shipped.
How is the handpan shipped?

Your handpan is packed securely inside a padded soft case, then placed inside a strong protective box with stabilising materials.

We ship worldwide and use various reliable courier companies depending on your country. If your country is not on the checkout page list, please send us an email and we will arrange shipping for you.

Once shipped, you’ll receive a tracking number, and we’ll keep you updated at every stage of the journey.
How much is shipping & do you ship worldwide?

We do ship worldwide - Shipping and import taxes vary by country.

The exact cost will be calculated at checkout on Shopify.

If you want an accurate quote beforehand, or if your address is NOT on the checkout list, message us directly — we’ll confirm the price for your region and send a custom invoice.

We aim to make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free.
Can I cancel my handpan order?

Each OHR handpan is custom-made specifically for you.

Because of this:

• You can cancel before production begins.

• Once production has started, cancellations or refunds are not possible.

If you’re unsure which scale or model to choose, contact us before ordering and we’ll help guide you.
What is the warranty or return policy?

We do not offer refunds — but we fully stand behind every instrument.

If your handpan arrives damaged, out of tune, or with any manufacturing issue, and you contact us within 15 days with clear video evidence, you can choose:

✔ 1. Local tuning/repair (we cover the cost)
You can take the handpan to a trusted tuner; we’ll cover the repair fee.

✔ 2. A replacement handpan (you keep the original)

We’ll build a brand-new replacement.

You only cover the shipping cost for the replacement.

Dan also personally checks in with every customer after delivery to ensure everything is perfect.
How often do handpans need tuning?

Whilst its highly variable among different hardpans, a high-quality handpan like ours should stay in tune for years.

Tuning stability depends on:

• How hard you strike the notes

• Storage conditions (avoid heat/humidity)

• Avoiding knocks or drops

• Temperature changes

Cheaper handpans often go out of tune quickly — and many can’t be re-tuned.
What materials are used?

We use two premium materials:

Stainless Steel

Bright, resonant, long sustain — great for expressive melodies and slow playing.

Ember Steel

Warm, soft, controlled sound with less metallic overtones — ideal for meditative flow, grounding, and deep resonance. Ember steel is slightly more stable especially when going above 10 notes.

Both materials are durable, responsive, and deliver beautiful tone depending on your playing style.
Do you offer tutorials or lessons?

Dan regularly shares tutorials, playing guidance, meditative sessions, and creative flow videos on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Follow here:

📺 YouTube: @DanHandpanMan

📱 Instagram/TikTok: @dan.handpan.man
How do I care for my handpan?

Simple maintenance:

• Wipe gently with a soft cloth after playing

• Store in a dry place (avoid heat, humidity, direct sun)

• Apply handpan oil every few months

• Avoid knocks and drops

• Remove jewellery before playing

Take care of it and your handpan will last a lifetime.
Can I customise my handpan?

Yes.

We offer custom:

• Keys

• Scales

• Note layouts

• Frequencies (432/440Hz)

• Finishes

• Engravings

Tell us what you’re looking for — we’ll help create your dream instrument.
How do I choose the right handpan?

Choosing your first handpan (or even 10th) can be overwhelming at times. So If you’re unsure, message us directly.

We’ll guide you based on your:

• Sound preference

• Playing style

• Experience level

• Purpose (meditation, creativity, performance, etc.)

That way you’re not left guessing — we will help you choose the right instrument for you.
Where are your products manufactured?

Our handpans are crafted in China by a highly experienced and reputable team of professional makers.
We’ve partnered with a long-standing workshop known for consistent tuning, strong craftsmanship, and reliable quality.

Each instrument is handmade, hand-tuned, and fully sound-tested before it is shipped.