Poppy, it totally depends on the windchimes. The first set I bought were totally clangy, and very loud. I hated them, and ended up hanging them inside where they were to look at!

Then, I got a set for Christmas about 3 years ago. They are sound beautiful. They are very melodic, and kind of make a resounding noise, rather than clangy. Hopefully that will make sense to you.

So, it could just be the set that you have. You might like others.