Harps
How to choose harps
String count
Pick your string count first. A 16-string lyre suits starters, while 21 or 27 strings fit trained hands.
Playing style
Choose plucked or bowed. Tagelharpa style needs bowing skill, unlike simple plucked lyres.
Build material
Look at the material. Maple/wood/nylon mixes fight humidity, but rosewood sounds fuller.
Play or display
Decide if it is for play or display. Arts & Entertainment wall pieces skip working tuning hardware.
Finish
Check the colour. Natural or brown wood fits classic rooms, while black or red stands out on stage.
What's good
- A 7-string pentatonic lyre keeps practice simple, fitting folk tunes without music theory knowledge.
- Larger 27-string harps give a full scale range, suiting players who know chord structures.
- Solid ash or mahogany wood builds offer warmer tone than maple/wood/nylon mixes.
- Bowed lyres (tagelharpa) create a sustained drone that plucked lyres cannot match.
- Hobbies & Creative Arts pieces work as wall decor when you don't need playable strings.
Things to watch
- A 27-string harp is bulky and heavy. Wrong for commuters or small bedrooms.
- Metal strings on box lyres last longer but hurt soft fingertips during long sessions.
- Bowed lyres need a bow and rosin, adding kit that casual players find fussy.
- Maple/wood/nylon bodies resist cracks yet sound thinner than solid beech wood.
- Decorative Arts & Entertainment items look the part but will not hold tuning tension.
Care & maintenance
Wipe down
Wipe ash or mahogany wood with a dry cloth after playing to remove hand oils.
Avoid heat
Keep instruments away from radiators, as dry air splits solid wood backboards.
Loosen strings
Loosen metal strings if storing a lyre for weeks, protecting the neck from warp.
Rosin bow
Rub bowed lyre strings with rosin before each use so the bow grips cleanly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when buying harps?
When shopping for harps, consider factors such as quality, price, brand reputation, and customer reviews. Compare prices across multiple retailers to ensure you're getting the best deal. Look for products that match your specific needs and budget.
How do I choose the right harps?
Choosing the right harps depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Research different options, read customer reviews, and compare specifications. Consider what features are most important to you and look for products that offer the best value for money.
Where can I find the best deals on harps?
You can find the best deals on harps by comparing prices across multiple retailers. Our price comparison tool helps you find the lowest prices from trusted UK retailers including Amazon, eBay, and other major online stores. Check regularly as prices and deals change frequently.
Are harps products worth the investment?
The value of harps products depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use them. Quality products from reputable brands often provide better long-term value, even if they cost more initially. Consider your budget and requirements when making your decision.
What's the difference between different types of harps?
Different types of harps vary in features, quality, price, and intended use. Some may offer premium features while others focus on affordability. Research the specific differences between models or brands to find the option that best suits your needs and budget.