What are the differences between D Kurd and B Kurd?

D Kurd vs. B Kurd - Which handpan suits you?

If you look for a handpan in minor mood, you quickly come across the Kurd scale. Well, actually. If you look for a handpan at all, the "Kurd" tuning is the first one you come across. If you're new to the handpan world then a lot is not quite clear, and if you come across a D Kurd first and then a B Kurd later, that might cause some confusion. In this blog, we try to explain to you the differences between the two. We also try to do this in such a way that even the musical layman can understand it!

Listen to the difference

But... We can explain as much as we want, but you have to hear the difference! Therefore, we have recorded a video for you below where the two hand pans are compared 1 on 1 so you can hear the differences. We do recommend listening to this in a quiet place and preferably with headphones so you can hear the sound well! After listening to and watching the video we dive in and explain the differences on paper as well.

More about the Kurd scale

The Kurd scale is one of the most popular and versatile tunings, suitable for beginners and experienced players alike. Within this tuning, there are two common variations: the D Kurd and the B Kurd. Although both handpans have the same structure, one is a lot higher in tone than the other. This affects the mood and feeling the handpan evokes. Let's explore the differences!

D Kurd - The world's best-selling handpan

The D Kurd is the best-selling handpan tuning worldwide. The sound is warm, accessible and very versatile.

🔹 F undamental tone: D3
🔹 S cale (D Kurd 10): D3 - A3 - Bb3 - C4 - D4 - E4 - F4 - G4 - A4 - C5
🔹 Additional notes to the D Kurd 12: (F3) and (G3) at the bottom for extra depth
🔹 So und: Warm, expressive and balanced
🔹 Ideal for: Beginners and advanced players, solo performances, ensemble playing and meditation

The D Kurd is often chosen for its versatility and suitability for different styles of music. The D3 Ding (the central note on top) is the beating heart of the hand pan, while the rest of the notes give plenty of room to explore different melodies and playing styles. This makes the instrument perfect for both meditative playing and energetic improvisations.

Easy interplay with other musicians

Another great advantage of the D Kurd is that it goes extremely well with other instruments. On a piano, the D minor scale contains only one black key (the Bb), which makes it easier to play together with pianists. On a guitar, chords in D minor are also easy to play, making this tuning popular among musicians.

Most sold worldwide

In addition, the D Kurd is the most widely used tuning worldwide. This means that at jam sessions or workshops you will often meet other players with a D Kurd, making it easier to play together and learn from each other.

Good in a band

The D Kurd also has a great advantage in a band formation: the higher notes cut well through the mix and remain audible among other instruments.

D Kurd for meditation?

Although lower tones can create a deep, melancholy atmosphere, higher tones are also great for meditative playing. The bright sounds of a D Kurd often feel uplifting and light, while deeper tones can sound rather heavy and emotional.

Recommended: D Kurd 12

Although the D Kurd 10 already offers a nice balance, we often recommend the D Kurd 12. The extra low notes on the bottom provide more depth and a richer contrast between the bass and treble. Check out the product page of the D Kurd 12 for more information and a demonstration.

B Kurd - Deep, mysterious and soothing 

The B Kurd has a deeper mood than the D Kurd and creates a calm, introspective atmosphere.

🔹 Ground tone: B2
🔹 S cale (B Kurd 9): B2 - F#3 - G3 - A3 - B3 - C#4 - D4 - E4 - F#4
🔹 Additional notes to the B Kurd 12: (D3) and (E3) at the bottom for extra depth and the high B4 at the bottom to complete the scale and provide contrast to the low notes and scale in general
🔹 So und: Deep, full and compelling
🔹 Ideal for: Meditation, yoga, slow and atmospheric compositions

Although the B Kurd may be less popular worldwide, at Handpan Studio we see that both the B and D Kurd are equally popular. The choice between the two is mostly a matter of personal preference. People looking for a deep resonant sound and an instrument that can be strongly felt in the body are often attracted to the B Kurd.

Calming resonance

This handpan quickly creates a sense of calm, making it popular with people who use it for meditation and yoga. However, that doesn't mean you can't play rhythmic or energetic music on it. The low tuning of the B Kurd has a natural resonance that invites a dreamy and introspective style of playing.

Recommended: B Kurd 12

As with the D Kurd, we often recommend the B Kurd 12. This version includes a high B in addition to the two basses at the bottom, which completes the scale and provides a nice contrast between the deep and bright tones. Check out the product page of the B Kurd 12 for more information and a demonstration.

Conclusion?

Choosing a handpan is ultimately about what the sound does to you. Practical benefits certainly play a role, but the most important thing is that the instrument touches you. Listen carefully and feel which instrument you like best. Can't really choose because both sound equally wonderful? Then the D Kurd 12 is a smart choice because of the additional benefits it offers.