 Choosing Autoharps |
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| Choosing AutoharpsThe short version: If you're not mechanically-minded and you're thinking about getting an autoharp to try it out, you need to make certain it's playable from the start. In an ideal world, that means:
What About New Online? Sadly, quality control on new autoharps isn't what it used to be. Some music stores that sell them autoharps claim to rigorously test each instrument that goes out. A few of them do, but even the best stores miss something once in a while. The short version is that if you're buying a new one that you can't get your hands on, you need to make certain it has return privileges and that you (or a friend) can check it out thoroughly as soon as it arrives so you don't miss the return window.
I have owned examples of all four, and found them delightful to play, so you'll probably be satisfied, if not delighted, with whatever you order. (I have specific recommendations below.) But my caution about making certain your new instrument looks, works, plays, and sounds as it should the day you bring it home stands. We discuss more about the kinds of autoharps that are currently available new further down. In addition one of our sister sites hosts a page that discusses individual models and a few "where to buy" options and recommendations. What About Used? First, most people selling used autoharps online know nothing about them. If they don't have too many scratches and aren't missing too many strings, they'll describe them as excellent condition. Then you get it and find out has issues the seller didn't know anything about. And that $150 bargain may cost you more than a new autoharp by the time you get it fixed properly. That said, many people who just wanted to try out an autoharp without spending a fortune have come up with instruments that served their purpose. But if you're a complete newbie, you'll want a 'harp that is ready to play, and it's hard to tell from an online ad whether it fits that category. The short version is, if you can't get your hands on it personally or get a musician friend to help you check it out thoroughly, get the seller's guarantee that you can get your money back if it needs parts or repair to be playable. Otherwise, you shouldn't spend any more on a used autoharp than you can afford to lose outright. Our article "Shopping for Used Autoharps" tells you what to look for and what to avoid. It also has links to other writers with different opinions, so you're not just dependent on my experience. "Off-the Shelf" AutoharpsAs I mentioned earlier, "store-bought" autoharps are made in two basic flavors - 15-chord and 21-chord. They are made by two companies - Oscar Schmidt and Chromaharp (although both lines have been produced under other brand names like Samick, Airline, MEG, Sekova, etc.). Similarities include:
Differences include:
Fifteen-ChordersThe "entry-level" of both lines is currently a 15-chorder. They are fun to play and - frankly - have the same construction and number of strings as the 21-chorders from the same line.So, say, a C chord on a 15-chorder will sound about the same as a C chord on a 21-chorder from the same line. You're not sacrificing sound, just the number of chords, when you choose a 15-chorder over a 21-chorder.
Frankly, if you're a beginning player, either a Chromaharp or Oscar Schmidt autoharp 15-chorder would give you the same learning and playing experience (though most Chromaharp 15-chorders are more solid than most OS 15-chorders). No one offers a significant "upgrade" version of these 15-chorders. So if you feel the need for a better instrument, you'll probably be going to a 21-chorder or custom instrument eventually. One other point - if you're on a really tight budget, and shopping for used instruments, you'll soon discover that many more 15-chorders have been sold in the past than 21-chorders, so it's usually far easier and cheaper to get a playable used 15-chorder than a good used 21-chorder. (There is more about buying used autoharps below). 21-ChordersBoth Oscar Schmidt and Chromaharp offer 21-chord versions. Again both brands offer the same chords in the same arrangement.
Out of the box, the Chromaharp 21-chorder and the Oscar Schmidt OS21C (their entry-level 21-chorder) share essentially the same chord bar setup and similar sound. The Chromaharp 21-chorders tend to be more solid than the entry-level Oscar Schmidt OS21C. Unfortunately, Chromaharps have less manufacturer and aftermarket support than Oscar Schmidts. And, if you're ever considering reconfiguring the chord bars, as many "serious" autoharp players do, you'll learn that it's a lot easier on the Oscar Schmidt than on the Chromaharp. 15 or 21 Chords When Starting Out?If you're looking at new autoharps, you may discover that the price difference between the 15-chord autoharp you have your eyes on and its 21-chord "big brother" is only 25-30%. In that case, you might be better off saving for a few more weeks and getting the 21-chorder. (Again, if you're shopping used instruments, used 15-chorders are usually much cheaper than used 21-chorders, just because there are so many more of them.)
Our sister web page RiverboatMusic has a page that lists several of the new autoharp models worth considering, including links to vendors. Yes, it's better if you can buy locally from a store with a trustworthy autoharp technician, but many people don't have that choice.
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All material, illustrations, and content of this web site is copyrighted ? 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009,
Note: Creek Don't Rise (tm) is Paul Race's name for his resources supporting the history and music of the North American Heartland as well as additional kinds of acoustic and traditional music. For questions, comments, suggestions, trouble reports, etc. about this page or this site, please contact us.
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