Gear article

Sela Handpan Stand

The Sela Handpan Stand is a portable, wooden support system designed specifically for handpans and similarly sized percussion instruments. Crafted from robust beech wood, it provides a stable and resonant base for seated players, prioritising both instrument security and tonal clarity.

See live prices

Overview

The Sela Handpan Stand is a dedicated accessory for percussionists, designed to hold the instrument at an ergonomic height for seated play. Unlike generic tripod stands, this model is built from wood to complement the aesthetic and acoustic properties of melodic percussion instruments like the handpan.

Design and Construction

The stand is manufactured from high-quality beech wood, chosen for its balance of durability and lightweight properties. The structure is fully collapsible, allowing for easy transportation to rehearsals or gigs. A defining feature is the use of attached cords, which allow the user to adjust the spread and height of the stand to suit different instrument diameters and player preferences.

Acoustic Performance

For handpans, the method of support is critical to the sound. This stand utilizes non-slip pads at the points of contact. These pads are designed to provide a secure grip while maintaining minimal surface contact with the instrument shell. This specific design ensures that the handpan's resonance is not dampened, allowing the notes to ring out with full sustain and clarity.

Target Audience and Use Cases

This stand is suitable for a wide range of users, from casual hobbyists playing at home to professional percussionists who requires a reliable setup for live performances. Its lightweight nature makes it particularly appealing for travelling musicians who need to assemble and disassemble their gear quickly. Because it is adjustable, it can also accommodate various sizes of steel tongue drums and other hemispherical percussion instruments.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to metal tripod stands like the Hercules DS504B or heavy-duty keyboard stands like the Gibraltar GKS-KT75, the Sela Handpan Stand offers a more organic aesthetic and a lighter footprint. While microphone stands like the Trojan Pro or speaker stands like the K&M 214/6 are designed for different equipment types, the Sela stand is purpose-built to handle the unique weight distribution and resonance requirements of a handpan.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What material is the Sela Handpan Stand made from?
The stand is crafted from robust beech wood, which provides a balance of stability and a lightweight body for easier transport.
Is this stand suitable for standing performances?
No, this stand is specifically designed to provide a comfortable seated playing experience for the musician.
Can the stand be folded for travel?
Yes, the stand is completely collapsible, making it easy to transport to gigs or store when not in use.
Does the stand provide a secure grip on the instrument?
Yes, it features non-slip pads that provide optimum grip between the stand and the instrument to prevent sliding during play.
How does this stand affect the sound of the handpan?
It is designed for minimal contact with the instrument, which helps provide ultimate resonance and prevents the dampening of the handpan's natural tone.
Is the height of the stand adjustable?
Yes, the stand is adjustable thanks to the attached cords, which allow the user to modify the spread and height for different instruments.
Will this stand fit all handpans?
The Sela Handpan Stand is designed to be suitable for most standard handpans and percussion instruments of a similar size.
How much does the Sela Handpan Stand typically cost?
The typical price range for this specific stand is approximately GBP 75.
Is the stand difficult to assemble?
No, the stand is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, which is ideal for gigging musicians.
Can it hold other types of percussion instruments?
Yes, it is suitable for various percussion instruments of a similar size to a handpan, such as steel tongue drums.
How durable is the wood construction?
The use of robust beech wood ensures that the stand is durable enough for regular use in both casual and professional settings.
Does the stand include any metal components for the base?
The primary structure is beech wood, utilizing cords for adjustment rather than traditional metal locking mechanisms found on speaker or mic stands.