There are various terms and materials circulating in the world of handpans, which can be confusing for beginners. A common misconception is that ember steel is that Ember Steel is different or even "better" than stainless steel. In this blog article, we want to shed some light on the differences between Ember Steel and other types of stainless steel for handpans.
What is Ember Steel?
Ember Steel is not a material in its own right, but a special designation for stainless steel, which is used for the manufacture of handpans. Various manufacturers use this designation, to differentiate their stainless steel, which is a brand name, in something like Tempo for handkerchiefs or similar.
Properties of Ember Steel:
- Hardness: Ember Steel goes through a hardening process, which makes it resistant to scratches and dents, something that also happens with other types of stainless steel
- Sound: Ember steel is often said to have a warm, round and harmonious sound with good sustain.
- Rust resistance: Like all stainless steel grades, Ember Steel is rust resistant and easy to clean.
Differences to other types of stainless steel:
The properties of Ember Steel are similar to those of high-quality stainless steel, which is also used for the manufacture of hand pans.
- Hardness: The hardness can vary depending on the alloy and manufacturing process.
- Sound: The sound of a handpan is influenced by various factors, not just the material. The shape, thickness and tuning of the individual notes play a more important role.
- Price: Handpans made from Ember Steel are usually in the middle to upper price segment.
Conclusion:
Ember Steel is a high-quality stainless steel, which is well suited to the manufacture of handpans. However, it is important to note that it is not a unique material and its properties are similar to those of other types of stainless steel. When buying a handpan, let your ear and your playing preferences be your guide and find out about different manufacturers and models in our online store.