A couple of years ago we were approached by Guy Jackson, a software programmer from South Africa, who told us he wanted to make an electronic, hardware Hang Drum type instrument that would perfectly replicate the experience of playing those great instruments. He, like so many others, was frustrated at the lack of availability and high costs of the genuine drums, and wanted a more affordable, democratic solution.

Yeah, ok, sounds great, we thought. We won’t hold our breath, though.

However, a year or so later, Guy was back – with a functioning early prototype, made of wood, but playing just like a handpan. It showed real promise and we were impressed by Guy’s drive and determination to make it happen, so we agreed we would act as sound design consultants and supply samples if a full production model ever came to be.

Another year later and Guy is about to launch a crowd-funding campaign to get The Lumen into a full production prototype form, and then make it available for retail. The price isn’t fixed yet but Guy ‘s aim is that it will be well under $1000 USD. With original Hangs changing hands for up to $10,000 on ebay, and other models selling for $2000+, this is exactly the price it needs to be.

Here is a sneak peak of the projected feature set:

Features

• Sound Design & Consultancy by Soniccouture
• Full velocity sensitivity (20 levels per tone field)
• Full range, amplified speakers
• USB charging
• 4 hour+ playing time
• MIDI output
• Audio output (headphone jack)
• Multiple instruments – changeable while playing
• Key adjustments while playing
• Scale adjustments
• Affordable!

Get onboard early and support the Lumen crowd-funding campaign at Indiegogo