Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (29)
$1,399.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (5)
$1,399.99
Amazon
4.5 (84)
$1,399.99
Reverb
5.0 (13)
$1,177.26 New
$980.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$1,399.99
zZounds
5.0 (3)
$1,399.99
B&H
$1,399.99
Thomann
4.9 (69)
$999.00
Gear4Music
£949.00

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the future of hand percussion with the Roland Handsonic HPD-20. This digital hand percussion instrument is equipped with Roland's SuperNATURAL sound engine, ensuring each hit, tap or stroke translates into dynamic, expressive sound. With 850 built-in sounds, you can explore a wide range of percussive tones from ethnic to electronic, all with exceptional quality and realism.

The Handsonic HPD-20 isn't just about playing sounds; it's also about creating them. Import your own WAV or AIFF audio files via USB flash memory, layer up to four sounds on a single pad, and create unique combinations of tones. Whether you're blending acoustic percussion with electronic beats or crafting your own unique soundscape, the HPD-20 puts the power in your hands.

In addition to its impressive sound capabilities, the HPD-20 is also a versatile controller. Its 13 ultra-sensitive pads offer flexible control for playing internal sounds and external MIDI instruments. Two trigger input jacks let you expand your setup by connecting a Roland pad and hi-hat controller. Plus, the HPD-20 sends 12 independent audio outputs to your mixer or DAW, providing separate signals for each pad and additional outputs for onboard effects.

Key Features:

  • Equipped with Roland's SuperNATURAL sound engine for dynamic and expressive sounds
  • Includes 850 built-in sounds, covering a wide range of percussive tones
  • Ability to import your own custom sounds via USB flash memory
  • 13 ultra-sensitive pads for flexible control and nuanced expression
  • Two trigger input jacks for expanding your setup with additional pads
  • Sends 12 independent audio outputs to your mixer or DAW
  • Comes with free Mac and PC USB drivers and editor/librarian software

Owner's manual

Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion User Manual

Product specs

Analog Inputs 1 x 1/4" TRS stereo
Analog Outputs 2 x 1/4" TS
MIDI I/O In/Out
Pads 13 velocity/pressure sensitive

FAQs

How many pads does the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 have and are they sensitive to touch?

The Roland Handsonic HPD-20 features 13 velocity-sensitive pads that respond to both strike and touch, allowing for expressive playing with options to dampen, mute, or adjust pitch.

Can the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 be used with external instruments or devices?

Yes, the HPD-20 includes MIDI In/Out and a 1/4" TRS stereo input, enabling connectivity with external instruments and devices for expanded performance capabilities.

Is the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 suitable for live performances?

Absolutely, the HPD-20 is designed for live use with its intuitive pad layout, wide sound selection, and robust connectivity, making it ideal for both studio and stage performances.

What kind of sounds can I expect from the Roland Handsonic HPD-20?

The HPD-20 offers a diverse range of sounds, including traditional percussion, electronic tones, and customizable user sounds, catering to various musical styles and preferences.

Does the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 support custom sound creation?

Yes, the HPD-20 allows users to import and create custom sounds, providing flexibility to tailor the instrument's sonic palette to specific needs.

How does the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 integrate with a DAW?

The HPD-20 can connect to a DAW via MIDI, allowing it to trigger sounds and sequences within your digital audio workstation for seamless integration into your production workflow.

Roland East Europe

Roland East Europe

Roland HandSonic HPD-20 "World tour" featuring Kornél Mogyoró

Video thumbnail for Roland HandSonic HPD-20 "World tour" featuring Kornél Mogyoró by Roland East Europe

Roland HandSonic HPD-20 "World tour" featuring Kornél Mogyoró

Roland East Europe

Roland East Europe

Video thumbnail for 2014 Winter NAMM Show - Roland HPD-20 HandSonic Digital Hand Percussion Unit by Musician's Friend

2014 Winter NAMM Show - Roland HPD-20 HandSonic Digital Hand Percussion Unit

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Topher Stott on the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 by Roland Canada

Topher Stott on the Roland Handsonic HPD-20

Roland Canada

Roland Canada

Video thumbnail for Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Percussion Controller Review by Sweetwater by Sweetwater

Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Percussion Controller Review by Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Demo Review by Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Demo Review

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Video thumbnail for Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Overview by RolandChannel

Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Overview

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for Roland Handsonic HPD-20 - Kits Demo by David Urban

Roland Handsonic HPD-20 - Kits Demo

David Urban

David Urban

Video thumbnail for Roland Hand Sonic HPD-20 Demo by Kosmic Sound

Roland Hand Sonic HPD-20 Demo

Kosmic Sound

Kosmic Sound

Video thumbnail for Kraft Music - Roland HPD-20 HandSonic Electronic Hand Drum NAMM 2014 by Kraft Music

Kraft Music - Roland HPD-20 HandSonic Electronic Hand Drum NAMM 2014

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for Why I chose the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 over the Roland SPD-SX!? | Product Review by Ben Rowlands Music

Why I chose the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 over the Roland SPD-SX!? | Product Review

Ben Rowlands Music

Ben Rowlands Music

Video thumbnail for Roland HandSonic HPD-20 VS Previous Models by Roland UK

Roland HandSonic HPD-20 VS Previous Models

Roland UK

Roland UK

Video thumbnail for Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Review by Higher HZ

Roland HandSonic HPD-20 Review

Higher HZ

Higher HZ

Reviews

PROS

  • Wide variety of authentic percussion sounds and instruments

  • Ability to upload and assign custom .wav files to pads

  • Highly responsive pads with adjustable sensitivity for nuanced playing

  • Compact and lightweight design ideal for touring and live performances

  • Easy to configure MIDI mappings for seamless DAW integration

  • Realistic bongo and conga sounds with pad muting feature

  • Offers velocity-sensitive playing with expressive dynamic range

  • Supports external triggers for expanded percussive setups

  • Great for both beginners and experienced percussionists exploring new sounds

  • High-quality build ensuring durability and long-term reliability

CONS

  • Small pads around the perimeter can be difficult to trigger accurately

  • Expensive compared to some other electronic percussion options

  • Limited onboard storage for user samples with cumbersome loading process

  • Sticky pad surface not ideal for sliding hand techniques

  • Basic monochrome LCD display lacks modern interface appeal

  • Limited effectiveness as a MIDI controller for fast, complex rhythms

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion.

Features and functionality

  • The HPD-20 is noted for its pressure sensitivity and touch features, including the D Beam, making it unique among electronic hand drums.

    Source
  • The device offers separate output levels for headphones and main, enabling stealthy preset surfing during live settings.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite being an older model, the HPD-20 remains expensive, with used units often priced between $800-$1000, suggesting limited sales and high demand.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The HPD-20 is distinguished from generic pad machines by its ability to replicate hand percussion techniques, unlike typical finger drumming devices.

    Source
  • The HPD-20 offers more generic all-around percussion sounds compared to the Nord Drum 3p and Wavedrum Mini, which are more specialized.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners have found the HPD-20 effective for live looping setups, particularly when paired with loopers like the RC-505 MK2.

    Source
  • The HPD-20 effectively replicates conga and bongo sounds, allowing for open and closed slaps, mutes, and pitch bends, impressing even seasoned drummers.

    Source
  • Prepping a "Chain" of jazz and Latin kits facilitates seamless kit selection during live performances, avoiding unwanted sound mishaps.

    Source

User experience

  • It's highlighted as the only electronic percussion pad that allows for palm and hand slap techniques, distinguishing it from finger drumming alternatives.

    Source
  • The D-BEAM control can be inadvertently triggered in crowded settings, suggesting caution during busy stages to avoid unexpected sound activation.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Using a guitar compressor pedal can help manage the HPD-20's sometimes extreme dynamics, although this was not tested during the gig.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland HandSonic HPD20

soundonsound.com

The Roland HandSonic HPD-20 impresses with its vast library of 850 sounds and real-time performance features, including the innovative D-Beam and WAV file import capability. Its tactile surface and SuperNatural technology make playing feel intuitive and realistic. While the HPD-20 is a bit pricey, its quality and versatility justify the cost for serious percussionists. However, a dedicated editing software for easier kit management could enhance the user experience. Overall, it's a top-tier digital hand percussion instrument that elevates performance and creativity.

positive

Roland Handsonic HPD-20 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Roland Handsonic HPD-20 impresses with its flexibility, catering to DJs, percussionists, and drummers alike. With a vast array of 850 samples, the ability to import custom .wav files, and Roland's superNatural sound engine, it promises convincing, dynamic sounds. The design is user-friendly, and the pads are gentle on hands during long sessions. However, the lack of a PC-based editor can make customization tedious, and some features from previous models, like the ribbon controllers, are missed. Overall, it's a versatile tool for modern percussionists, but with room for improvement in user interface conveniences.

positive

Roland Handsonic HPD-20 Tested! - DRUM! Magazine

drummagazine.com

Roland's HandSonic HPD-20 impresses with its expanded sound library, sample loading, and comprehensive USB connectivity. While its $899 street price might be steep, the ability to integrate tech and dance loops alongside traditional percussion makes it a versatile tool for modern musicians.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

5 star
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1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Madeon uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Madeon

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

in "GFF Live" he used HPD-20 for playing samples (you can see in this video)

See how Lil Jon uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Lil Jon

Rapper, Music Producer

Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz

...
Verified via YouTube

A classic hiphop machine, the Handsonic is also used by Lil Jon. This is located at 25 seconds into the video.

See how KT Tunstall uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

KT Tunstall

Singer, Guitarist

7 Worlds Collide

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see Roland HPD-20 in use @ 56:27 in thi video

See how Darude uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Darude

Music Producer

...
Verified via Darude

According to the official gear list on Darude's Website (Click on the studio tab), it says he owns a Roland Handsonic.

See how Stro Elliot uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Stro Elliot

Drummer, Music Producer

The Roots

...
Verified via Instagram

In a photograph shared on Instagram by Stro Elliot, he is visibly utilizing the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion. The caption accompanying the image highlights a memorable performance, evidencing the artist's use of this specific musical gear during a notable live rendition. This direct visual confirmation from Stro Elliot's own social media serves as a reliable source to affirm his use of the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 in his musical performances.

See how Martin Kohlstedt uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Martin Kohlstedt

Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Martin Kohlstedt - MODBRUNAO (live at Peterskirche Leipzig, Germany 2023)," Martin Kohlstedt is clearly seen using the Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion at the 1:06 mark, as documented by the video provided by Martin Kohlstedt.

See how Rodrigo Gallardo uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Rodrigo Gallardo

Singer, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In a live performance video titled "Matanza en vivo 2016 (Na Manteiga Radio)" on YouTube, Rodrigo Gallardo is seen using the Roland Handsonic HPD-20, a digital hand percussion instrument.

See how Taku Hirano uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Taku Hirano

Drummer

Fleetwood Mac

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo Taku Hirano can be seen with a Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion.

See how Jonas Rathsman uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Jonas Rathsman

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

My favourite thing in my studio right now is my Handsonic HPD-20. It’s a digital percussion hand drum with over 100 presets of the classic drums such as conga, bongos, etc. The sounds are very natural sounding and it’s really easy to use. It’s perfect to get a simple beat going in the early stage of your music production. All the percussion you hear in my track ´To Infinity And Beyond’ (which was just released on Mobilee) was made on the Handsonic and the track was actually made in just one day.

See how Paradime uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Paradime

Singer, Rapper

The Twisted Brown Trucker

...
Verified via Instagram

In a post on Instagram, Paradime is seen with a white Roland Handsonic HPD-20 near his ear.

See how Demuja uses Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion

Demuja

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo Demuja is seen beside his Roland Handsonic.

Album Usage

The Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland Handsonic HPD-20 | Digital Hand Percussion, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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