In order to choose the best harp for you, consider the size of harp that will suit you best, what brand you like the best, and the style and shape of the harp. There are different types of harps and each one is good for different situations, so you will need to think about how you are going to use your harp in order to pick the proper size. The brand of a harp will have an effect on its sound quality because each manufacturer produces harps with unique characteristics. Style and shape also affect the sound of a harp as well as how it will look and feel to the musician.
If you are just beginning to play the harp, or if you want a harp that you can easily transport, a lap harp might be best. These harps are simpler to play because they have the fewest strings and might be easier for a beginner to master. A lever harp is typically in the mid range in both size and price and is usually the best harp for an intermediate player. Pedal harps are the largest which means they have the most strings and are the most difficult to transport. Another way to determine the best size harp is to think about what type of music you intend to play on it as the number of strings on each harp determines what styles of music can be played on it.
The construction of a harp, as with many musical instruments, is an art form, and each manufacturer has its own techniques. There are several well known brands that have been producing harps for many years and have an individual style and reputation. One brand might be known for producing harps with a warm tone while another may produce harps with extreme pitch accuracy. If necessary, consult a professional to determine the differences between available brands and choose which one is the best harp brand for you.
A harp that will be displayed in a studio, used for performances, or showcased in a home might need to look just as beautiful as it sounds. Think about where you plan to use and store your harp and decide if there are any aesthetic aspects that are especially important to you. For example, you might want a certain shape or a specific type of wood so that the harp compliments the style of your home. Be aware that the type of wood used to construct it influences the sound the harp produces. Another important step to choosing the best harp is to make sure the shape of the harp feels comfortable against your body.