MIDIpan: Polyphonic MIDI Controller Inspired by Tongue Drums and Handpans
Expressive MIDI Control Meets Traditional Percussion
The MIDIpan from UK-based PeacockMedia brings the soulful expression of acoustic tongue drums and handpans into the digital realm. This polyphonic MIDI controller features 13 velocity-sensitive pads arranged in the familiar circular pattern that handpan players know and love, making it an accessible entry point for both beginners and experienced musicians.
Key Features and Capabilities
The MIDIpan stands out with its thoughtful design and comprehensive feature set. The device offers multiple output options: MIDI over USB for direct computer connection, MIDI over TRS (using the Korg/Type A standard) for hardware integration, and an optional audio output version that includes a built-in synthesizer with 40 General MIDI instruments.
The pad layout follows an alternating pattern where the center pad serves as the root note, with the remaining pads arranged to make chord progressions intuitive. Players can easily find triads for different chords (1-3-5, 2-4-6, etc.), making it particularly useful for harmonic playing. The layout can be flipped left-right for left-handed players or personal preference.
Velocity sensitivity adds expressive control, allowing light taps for quiet notes and heavy strikes for maximum impact. The sensitivity can be calibrated through the device's menu system to match individual playing styles and environmental conditions.
Scale Modes and Musical Flexibility
One of the MIDIpan's strengths is its extensive collection of scales and modes. Beyond the standard major and minor scales, it includes all seven modes from Lydian to Locrian, major and minor pentatonics, and various exotic scales including Arabic and handpan-specific tunings. This variety allows players to explore different musical territories without needing deep music theory knowledge.
The root note and octave can be adjusted independently, giving access to the full MIDI range. The device defaults to MIDI channel 2 but can be configured for any of the 16 MIDI channels.
For rhythm-focused playing, the MIDIpan includes a dedicated kit scale that maps useful drum sounds to the pads. More advanced users can access the full General MIDI percussion set by selecting the chromatic scale and switching to channel 10, providing drum sounds from C3 through octave 7.
Built-in Looper and Advanced Features
Recent firmware updates have added a sophisticated looper function that allows users to record, overdub, and play back musical phrases. The looper includes tap tempo functionality, count-in features, and the ability to change octaves while recording or playing back loops. This makes the MIDIpan suitable for solo performance and creative composition.
The audio version includes additional capabilities like program change messages for switching between the 40 built-in instruments, which range from traditional percussion sounds to orchestral instruments and synthesizer patches.
Power and Connectivity
The MIDIpan powers via USB-C, making it convenient for studio use where a single cable provides both power and MIDI connectivity. For standalone operation, it can run on batteries, though the audio version has higher power requirements.
A notable feature is the inclusion of a tripod mount on newer models, adding stability for tabletop use and providing standard mounting options for live performance setups.
Comparison with Similar Instruments
While the MIDIpan shares some conceptual ground with Roland's Mood Pan, the two instruments target different audiences. The Mood Pan focuses on wellness and meditation applications with built-in environmental sounds and a simplified interface. The MIDIpan, by contrast, is designed as a serious MIDI controller for music production and performance, offering more scales, advanced looper functionality, and both MIDI and audio output options.
The MIDIpan's velocity sensitivity, extensive scale collection, and professional connectivity options make it better suited for musicians who want to integrate handpan-style playing into their electronic music setup.
Availability and Pricing
PeacockMedia offers the MIDIpan in MIDI-only and audio versions, with the audio variant including the built-in synthesizer and additional output jack. The device represents a more affordable alternative to high-end acoustic handpans while offering the flexibility and convenience that only electronic instruments can provide.
For musicians interested in exploring the expressive possibilities of handpan and tongue drum playing within a MIDI environment, the MIDIpan offers a compelling combination of traditional feel and modern functionality.