The Electro-Hang Project - HandPan Electronico

While not speaking Spanish, it’s difficult to get to the details of the project (even using Google translator), the concept is understandable in any language - 'Create an electronic Hang'. 

And there have been other attempts with devices like the ‘Dome Control’, and the creation of sound models for devices like the ‘Korg Wavedrum’, each bringing with it its own strengths and weaknesses, when compared to an acoustic HandPan. And each, possibly, taking us a little closer; to a passable electric HandPan.

At the time of writing the Electro Hang is in its early days (design wise at least), but putting aside aesthetics
, in essence, it’s all in place and ready to go. A circular pattern of pads, and sensors, convert touch into sound via a USB link-up to a computer hosting ‘Hang drum’ samples (presumably those by SonicCouture). Job done! For starters...

Which is pretty much where we find ourselves now (at time fo writing) following the Electro Hang project. With a version one workable electronic Hang prototype. With version two (on the cards), promising numerous refinements. 

To check out the Electro Hang project, follow its progress, or perhaps, even learn how to make one for yourself, you can visit the Electro Hang webpage: HERE.

POLYCASE - A Hang / HandPan Flight Case and BackPack

Eagerly awaited by many, the ‘Polycase’, by ‘Hardcase Technologies’, is an all-in-one handmade HandPan specific flight-case, and backpack. That, judging by some of the uploaded test videos, is all but guaranteed to protect your Hang, or HandPan, while on the move, from all reasonable perceived threats to your HandPan's health.

PANArt Hang, and HandPan can be VERY expensive ‘instruments’ (as you’re probably aware). But more than that, with the limited availability of certain pans, combined with the different generations, and different scales of past, and present, they can also prove to be irreplaceable (there are at least a handful of one-of-a-kind Hang, and Halo in existence that truly would be irreplaceable - should they become damaged beyond repair).

Made from ‘Polycarbonates’ (a group of thermoplastic polymers that are particularly strong in temperature, and impact resistance), the Polycase, has an internal circumference of 193cm, a height of 30cm, weighs in at 4.0 KG, features an internal absorbing system (i.e. padding) made from high density foam, and is compatible with most (but not all) of the current main names in HandPan (the Pantheon Steel Halo seems to be the most notable exception at time of writing).

Endorsed by Davide Swarup (well known globe-trotting Hang musician) - who stated via FaceBook that he was very happy to put his name to the product (being among the first to receive a Polycase himself). The Polycase sells for the price of 329 Euros (or 249 if you’re quick and buy one at the ‘early bird’ promotional rate). Oh, and it looks awesome too - like a tribal turtle shell!

You can find more information, and/or purchase a Polycase from the Hardcase Technologies website: HERE. Or to watch more videos of the Polycase taking a beating, you can visit their YouTube channel: HERE.

[UPDATE] JUL 2014 - POLYCASE 2.0.- NEW AND IMPROVED

Harmonic Hearts - Vibrations for the Soul

While the use of custom shells has brought some interesting developments to the world of steel tongue drums, since Dennis Havlena first brought the Hang inspired Hank to the world. There’s still something very pure in the idea of taking something as seemingly mundane as a discarded propane gas tank, and turning it into something truly beautiful.

Enter the ‘Harmonic Hearts’.

Gorgeous sound sculptures, and unique one-of-a-kind audio art. These Hank drum really are stunning. Both in look, and in sound. And if you’re in any way familiar with the ‘TerraTonz’
made, ‘TerraTonguez’, you won’t be surprised to find out that Harmonic Hearts are made by former TerraTonz man, ‘Danny Sorensen’. Who is now treading a different path, creating his Harmonic Hearts range of Hank drum from recycled propane tanks. With each being, (as Danny Sorensen himself puts it) “Perfect in its imperfections”.

From the mystical Om with its deep meditative tones, to the ever-expanding trance-inducing Galaxy, each with its signature wooden plug, Harmonic Hearts can, at time of writing, be purchased (or adopted) by visiting the Harmonic Hearts Facebook page: HERE. Where you can also find more information, and keep up to date with future developments.
© HandPans Magazine