New Upgrad Dual-Faced Scale 12-Notes Handpan Drum - Hand Tuned D Minor

In this review of the New Upgrad Dual-Faced Scale 12-Notes Handpan Drum the bottom line is simple: this is a beginner-friendly, hand-tuned handpan that prioritizes tone and durability over mass-produced uniformity. It is best for players who value a handcrafted sound and want a practical practice instrument with two playable scales - a 10-note scale on top and a 2-note scale on the bottom - in a 22 in diameter shell. The most convincing reason to buy is the manufacturers insistence on manual tuning paired with a thicker steel plate for greater stability and longevity.

Key Features

• Hand tuning: Each instrument is manually tuned to deliver an individual voice and a more nuanced harmonic spectrum than mass-produced presses.
• Dual-faced scales: The top presents a 10-note scale for melodic playing while the bottom offers a 2-note extension to add low accents or drone notes.
• Selected thickened steel plate: Thicker steel helps the drum resist dents and stay in tune longer through transport and regular play.
• Refined heating process: Production techniques guided by an expert allow the drums tonal character and visual tempering to emerge naturally.
• 440Hz D Minor Kurd tuning: The chosen tuning centres the instrument in a familiar concert pitch and a minor modal palette suited to meditative playing.
• 22 in diameter: A midsize footprint that balances portability with a full-bodied low register for home practice and small gatherings.

Who It's For

The New Upgrad Dual-Faced handpan is aimed at beginners and intermediate players who want an affordable, hand-tuned instrument that still shows clear craftsmanship. It suits people learning handpan technique, hobbyists who play at home or in small acoustic sessions, and anyone who prefers an instrument with a handcrafted sound and visual character.

Players seeking a professional concert-level instrument with factory-standard consistency or those who need a very lightweight travel drum might look elsewhere; while the thicker steel improves durability and tone, it also increases weight compared with ultra-light travel models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Hand tuning produces a warm, clear harmonic spectrum from deep bass to shimmering trebles.
• Dual-faced scales expand musical options without needing two separate instruments.
• Thickened steel plate improves resistance to transport damage and reduces tuning drift.
• Manufacturer experience and consultation with an expert suggest consistent production quality.

Cons

• Handcrafted individuality means instruments can vary in timbre; exact tone may differ from one drum to another.
• Thicker steel improves durability but adds weight, which may be less convenient for heavy travel.

Specifications

Product type	Dual-faced handpan drum
Top scale	10-note scale
Bottom scale	2-note scale
Tuning	440Hz D Minor Kurd
Diameter	22 in
Material	Selected thickened steel plate
Manufacturing	Hand tuned with expert-guided production

Our Verdict

The New Upgrad Dual-Faced handpan is a thoughtful, beginner-friendly instrument that offers genuine hand tuning and a durable, thicker steel shell at an accessible price. Its a strong value for players who want a unique-sounding handpan with two usable scales and a full harmonic range; those needing ultralight travel or rigidly consistent factory tone should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this handpan tuned by hand?
Yes. The manufacturer emphasizes manual tuning to produce individual instruments with a clear harmonic spectrum.

What tuning and scales does it have?
The drum is tuned to 440Hz in D Minor Kurd with a 10-note top scale and a 2-note bottom scale.

How durable is the construction?
Durability is enhanced by a selected thickened steel plate and refined heating processes, though handcrafted drums will still show natural variation.