Great harp exactly what we wanted

Great harp exactly what we wanted  Read Less

Harps under $500 are often meant as toys. This means that they are built to plink away at absentmindedly, similar to the functi...  Read More

Harps under $500 are often meant as toys. This means that they are built to plink away at absentmindedly, similar to the function of a therapy harp. They are not built to be used as professional musical instruments or even casual musical instruments because they will lack range, a carrying case, an ability to tune or have easy replacement of parts (buttons/valves/pads/strings) once they break down.But this Aklot harp comes with the following:1) 2-octave range of strings already installed2) A replacement set of strings if these strings break3) A tuning key4) Easy to tune and can be done sitting down or standing up5) A carrying case6) A nice adjustable strap for the harp itself so that you can have it securely against your body and minimize harp movement. The less your harp moves, the easier it is to play. I can walk around with this harp hands-free and it is as secure as a messenger bag.7) The same body shape as a professional harp, which is very good for when you buy an upgrade.Of course, there are some downsides. This harp is gentle and quiet. You can play it in your bedroom or office and not disturb anybody... but it will be drowned out if you try to play with others. Even when playing with the radio or any music accompaniment, you need to place your ear against the instrument to hear it. This harp is meant to be played as a solo (a capella) instrument in order for you to hear it clearly. Also, when you pluck a string, you know darn well that these harp strings are scarcely any better than fishing line that has been cut down to vibrate at the proper pitch! lol. Adding in the fact that the body of the instrument (specifically the soundbox) is not very resonant, you are not going to get a big and deep and beautiful sound. Rather, you get a good enough for a total harp beginner to enjoy type of sound. And finally, unlike a high-quality harp where poor finger technique will still sound somewhat nice, your finger technique on an Aklot harp will have a big effect on your sound production.So why do I give it 5 stars? This instrument has enough range to genuinely learn harp (via Udemy or other online music lessons) while still being cheap enough that it can be purchased on a whim for personal use. It also makes a superb gift. Therapy harps exist for a reason. Aklot made a serviceable harp for ALL people and not just wealthy people with a lot of disposable income. I thank Aklot for that.Let this Aklot be your starter harp. You won't be disappointed!  Read Less