Isthmus Instruments, LLC is a handpan builder located in Madison, WI, known for creating high-quality musical instruments. They offer a variety of handpans made from nitrided steel and stainless steel, emphasizing craftsmanship and attention to detail. Customers appreciate the beautiful sound and easy playability of the instruments, which allow musicians of all levels to connect with their creative side effortlessly. The company provides personalized advice and excellent customer support, ensuring that each customer feels well taken care of. Many reviews highlight the lovely tones produced by the handpans, making them ideal for relaxation and meditation. Users have expressed satisfaction with their purchases, noting the aesthetic appeal and the deep, resonant sounds of the instruments. One customer shared excitement about a C# Pygmy 17, feeling more creative with this scale, and praised the fantastic service throughout the process. Others have described the handpan as a stunning work of art that vibrates with love at 432 hz, appreciating the craftsmanship and sound quality. Customers also value the opportunity to see the manufacturing and tuning process firsthand, making their purchase experience special. With a strong focus on quality and customer satisfaction, Isthmus Instruments remains a trusted choice for those exploring handpan music.
I had dreamed of owning a handpan for 11 years, and my search to find the perfect one led me to Isthmus Instruments. I researched over 30 handpan builders, but Isthmus stood out in so many ways. To start, their website is larger than any of the others, and packed full of helpful information and videos. I found the story of Jenny Robinson's journey from hearing the sound of a handpan, to building them, to starting her business, filled with determination, dedication, knowledge, and passion. Making the best handpan available wasn't just a goal for her, but became her life. From finding the perfect steel ( which is made and sourced locally ), to designing the tools and equipment she uses to build them, to tuning them, to the final polish, it is obvious her heart goes into each and every step of each and every instrument. Jenny started Isthmus over a decade ago, and has been building and perfecting handpans longer than that, giving her years more experience than most of the other builders. She has selected a team of skilled and like minded artisans who share her passion, and now create these instruments with her. And then there are the handpans themselves. Once again, Isthmus stood out. I watched countless videos from the various builders, and sadly many of them used effects on the recordings ( some made note of this ), making it hard to know what the instruments true sound was like. Not Isthmus. Their videos are untouched. Just the pure, clear, sweet sound of each note. I also noticed there was very little finger strike sound. That really impressed me !! They also are beautiful to look at. I knew who was going to build my handpan. When I was ready to start the process of choosing the best one for me, Jenny and Robert happily and thoroughly answered all my questions, and there were many ! With their help and knowledge I chose my perfect handpan ( Stainless Steel E Sabye 13 ) and placed my order. I was thrilled when they let me know it was ready, which was earlier than estimated. And best of all, I had the pleasure of picking it up in person. I was welcomed warmly by both Robert and Jenny, ( they are so nice, and seemed as happy for me as I was !!) I cried when I saw my handpan, and I cried again when Robert played it for me. I honestly don't know the words to describe the sound. ' Heavenly ' is the closest I can think of. I've had my handpan for a month now, and play it every day. I love the feel of the steel - almost velvety. The notes respond so easily to the touch, and in spite of the fact that I am still learning, the sound is magical. Thank you Jenny, Robert, and everyone at Isthmus Instruments for all you have done and for all you do to keep creating these incredible handpans. And thank you for making my dream come true. I couldn't be happier !
My wife and I have purchased five handpans from Isthmus Instruments (C Aeolian & F Pygmy, C Golden Gate & G Oxalis, along with a stainless steel C# Pygmy). Our original research showed there are at least fifteen handpan makers in the United States and many more worldwide. We found Isthmus Instruments was nestled in the middle to upper group in terms of quality and price. There are a few reasons Isthmus Instruments stood out from the rest of the handpan makers. First, the voluminous information available from their website and YouTube videos is by far the best you will find of any handpan maker. We loved that a woman started this company in Madison, Wisconsin. Isthmus Instruments is not just selling handpans; they are creating a handpan community. We have had our first handpans for almost two years. We use them nearly every other day and let people play them at a local park. They hold up great with this type of public use. Each of our handpans has its own hard-shell case. The cases truly protect the handpans. I am embarrassed to admit that I had one of the cases fall off our golf cart onto the cement at a busy intersection at about 15 mph. It actually bounced a few times, and I was sure I damaged the handpan. However, there was no damage. A few weeks ago, we had our first negative experience with our C Golden Gate. It took a serious tumble to a brick patio at the park. It needed to be re-tuned. One simple email to Isthmus Instruments was all it took to start the process of getting it re-tuned. I could go on about my happiness with this company. You may find this level of quality and service elsewhere. Good luck!
Hands down the best handpan I ever put my hands on. It is so easy to activate with the touch of your hands. You can tell they put their heart into these drums. I recommend Isthmus Instrument if you're serious about quality and sound healing for your body.