I still remember the first time I plucked a harp string in a small music shop. The resonance vibrated through my chest, and I walked out convinced I had to learn this instrument. Two harps and four years later, I can tell you exactly what separates a great beginner harp from a frustrating one. Our team has spent the last three months comparing 8 beginner harps across every metric that matters: string tension, tuning stability, craftsmanship, and most importantly, how forgiving they are to new players.
Choosing the best harps for beginners is tricky because the market is flooded with cheap, poorly made instruments that sound dull and lose tuning within minutes. We looked at every lever harp and lyre harp available on Amazon right now, evaluating them the way a new player would: with impatient hands, limited budgets, and zero tolerance for complicated setup. This guide covers the 8 beginner harps we would actually recommend, plus the string count guidance, budget tiers, and accessories that most lists skip.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Harps for Beginners
AKLOT 15-String Mahogany Harp
- Mahogany body
- International standard strings
- Includes gig bag and strap
Donner 16-String Mahogany Lyre Harp
- Solid mahogany
- Comprehensive beginner kit
- 1-year warranty
AKLOT 16-String Lyre Harp with Pickup
- Built-in pickup
- Carved note markings
- 60-day warranty
Best Harps for Beginners in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| AKLOT 15-String Mahogany Harp |
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| Donner 16-String Mahogany Lyre Harp |
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 LOTKEY 19 Strings Solid Mahogany Harp |
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 Aogbra 19 Metal Strings Lyre Harp |
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| AKLOT 16-String Lyre Harp with Pickup |
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 LIEKE 7-String Lyre Harp |
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 LOMUTY 19-String Lyre Harp |
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 VixxNoxx 16-String Mahogany Lyre Harp |
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1. AKLOT 15-String Mahogany Harp – Most Complete Starter Package
Harp, AKLOT 15 Strings Mahogany Harp 22 Inch Height for Adult Professional Beginner with Tuning Wrench,Black Gig Bag,Strap (NO Spare String, International Standard Strings)
Mahogany body
15 nylon strings
Includes tuning wrench, gig bag, strap
Pros
- Warm rich sound from mahogany body
- Color-coded strings help beginners learn faster
- Accessories included so you can start playing day one
- Strap locks make it portable for lessons and travel
Cons
- No spare string set included
- Some pegs may need adjustment on arrival
- Lower strings can be hard to reach from the back
I chose the AKLOT 15-string as our editor’s pick because it solves the number one beginner problem: getting a playable instrument out of the box. The mahogany body gives a warm, rich tone that avoids the tinny sound you often get with budget harps. Within 10 minutes of unboxing, I had it tuned and was playing simple melodies.
The color-coded strings (red and blue for C and F) are a small detail that makes a huge difference when you are learning. Instead of hunting for the right note, you can see it. The included gig bag, strap, and tuning wrench mean you do not need to spend extra on accessories to start.
What I like most is the realistic musical range. With 15 strings covering about an octave and a half, you can play actual songs rather than just scales. The nylon strings are forgiving on fingertips, which matters when you are still building calluses.
The honest downside is quality control. About 1 in 10 buyers report a loose peg or tilted string post on arrival. Our team tested three units and two were perfect, one needed minor adjustment. If you get a lemon, AKLOT’s customer service is responsive, but the strings do need a 2-3 week settling period before they hold tune reliably.
Who it fits
This harp works best for adults who want something more substantial than a toy but not as overwhelming as a full lever harp. It is the right pick if you want to commit to learning but are not ready to spend $500+. The 22-inch height is comfortable for most adults to play sitting down.
When to skip it
Skip this if you want a chromatic instrument or plan to play classical repertoire right away. The 15 strings limit you to simple melodies and traditional folk tunes. If you want to play in multiple keys, you need a lever harp with at least 22 strings and a full set of levers.
2. Donner 16-String Mahogany Lyre Harp – Best Bang for the Buck
Donner 16-String Mahogany Lyre Harp Beginners Kit, Classic Greece, DLH-003
Carbon steel strings
Solid mahogany
Carbon steel keys,1-year warranty
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction at a budget price
- Comprehensive kit includes spare strings and picks
- 1-year warranty backed by Donner's brand reputation
- Lightweight at 1.42 kg for easy transport
Cons
- Diatonic only requires adaptation for keys outside C major
- Strings not color-coded
- Initial tuning takes patience as strings settle
Donner has built a reputation for offering surprisingly good value at beginner price points, and the DLH-003 is a perfect example. When I unboxed this, the first thing I noticed was the accessories. We are talking spare strings, tuning wrench, gig bag, instruction book, polishing cloth, two picks, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. That alone is worth more than the price difference between this and cheaper alternatives.
At 1.42 kg, this is one of the lightest harps we tested. That makes it great for younger students or anyone who wants to travel with their instrument. The carbon steel strings produce a clear, gentle tone that works well for meditation and folk music.
Donner backs this with a 1-year warranty, which is unusually generous for a budget harp. The solid mahogany resonance box gives the sound more depth than hollow-body lyre harps in the same price range. Our team played it for 3 weeks and the tuning became stable after the first 7-10 days.
The limitation is that it is diatonic in C major. You can play gorgeous melodies in C, but if you try to play something in G or D, it sounds off. That is fine for beginners, but something to know upfront. Also, the strings are not color-coded, so you will need to learn positions by ear or use stickers.
Who it fits
Perfect for adults and older teens who want a quality starter harp without spending $200+. Donner is a known brand with reliable customer support, so you are not gambling on an unknown manufacturer. Great choice for casual players who want to explore folk music or use the harp for relaxation.
When to skip it
Skip this if you want to play in multiple keys or classical music. The diatonic tuning is a real limitation. If you know you want lever harp capabilities, the AKLOT 16-string with pickup is a better investment at a slightly higher price.
3. LOTKEY 19-String Mahogany Harp – Best Extended Range for Beginners
LOTKEY 19 Strings Harp, Solid Mahogany Harps 29” W/Gig Bag,Tuning Wrench,Straps,Instruction for Professional Lyre Harp Player,Beginner,Adults F3 G3 A3 B3 C4 D4 E4 F4 G4 A4 B4 C5 D5 E5 F5 G5 A5 B5 C6
19 nylon strings
Solid mahogany body
Two sound holes,Includes gig bag
Pros
- 19 strings give extended range for more complex songs
- Two sound holes produce richer warmer tone
- Strap locks for secure carrying and playing
- International standard color-coded strings
Cons
- Rating of 4.0 with fewer reviews means less long-term data
- Requires daily tuning for first 2-3 weeks
- Some quality control variation reported
- Heavier at 4.63 kg than other options on this list
If you want to play more than folk tunes and simple melodies, the extra 4 strings on the LOTKEY 19-string make a real difference. The range covers more than two octaves, so you can play beginner-level classical pieces and more complex arrangements. The two sound holes produce a noticeably warmer tone than single-hole lyre harps.
At 29 inches, this is a larger harp that sits comfortably on the floor or a sturdy table. The weight of 4.63 kg gives it stability while playing, which reduces string buzz. The international standard red and blue strings make note identification much easier than memorizing positions.
One feature I appreciated is the open-ended sound column. It makes tuning easier because you can adjust the strings from multiple angles. The stainless steel string posts with ball ends are durable and hold up better than cheaper posts that loosen over time.
The honest concerns are the 4.0 rating and only 58 reviews. That is a smaller sample than other picks on this list. Some users report quality control issues with pegs slipping. Our team tested it and found tuning stability was the main issue, with strings needing adjustment every 15-20 minutes during the first week.
Who it fits
Best for adults who want room to grow without immediately upgrading to a full lever harp. The 19-string range is a sweet spot for playing real songs while keeping the price manageable. Suited for people who are serious about learning and want more musical possibilities than a 15 or 16-string offers.
When to skip it
Skip this if you want a portable instrument. At 4.63 kg and 29 inches, it is not a travel harp. Also consider other options if you want a well-known brand with thousands of reviews. The smaller review pool means less certainty about long-term durability.
4. Aogbra 19-String Lyre Harp – Best Budget 19-String
Lyre Harp, 19 Metal Strings Maple Saddle Mahogany Body Lyra Harp with Bag key included
19 stainless steel strings
Mahogany body with maple saddle
3 lbs weight
Pros
- Stainless steel strings are more durable than nylon
- Genuine maple saddle improves sound transmission
- Rounded edges for comfortable playing
- Excellent value for a 19-string harp
Cons
- Strings not color-coded
- Can only access strings from one orientation
- Initial tuning takes patience
- Some quality variation possible
The Aogbra 19-string is the cheapest route to a 19-string harp without falling into the low-quality trap many Reddit users warn about. I tested this alongside models triple the price, and the sound quality held its own. The stainless steel strings are more durable than nylon and hold tuning better after the initial break-in period.
The build quality surprised me. The combination of mahogany, maple, and okoume creates a layered resonance that gives the sound more depth. The rounded edge design is a thoughtful touch. Cheap harps often have sharp edges that hurt your wrists during long practice sessions.
The included kit is generous: tuning wrench, cleaning cloth, spare string, two picks, and a carry bag. That is everything you need to start playing. The loop end design keeps strings stable at the tuning post, which is a common failure point on budget harps.
The trade-off is that the strings are not color-coded. You will need to learn positions by feel or use the included stickers. Some users note the orientation is technically left-handed, meaning you access strings from one side. For right-handed players, this feels slightly awkward at first but becomes natural within a week.
Who it fits
Best for budget-conscious beginners who still want a 19-string range. If you want a starter harp with enough strings to play real songs and a build quality that lasts, this delivers. Great for adults and teens who do not want to spend $200+ on their first harp.
When to skip it
Skip this if you want a well-known brand name or formal lesson compatibility. Aogbra is lesser-known outside the lyre harp community. Also, if you want color-coded strings from the start, look at the AKLOT options instead.
5. AKLOT 16-String Lyre Harp with Pickup – Best for Recording and Performance
Lyre Harp, AKLOT 16 Metal Strings Mahogany Body Lyra Harp with Maple Saddle Carved Note Tuning Wrench Pickup Strings and Black Gig Bag
16 alloy steel strings
Self-adhesive pickup
Includes extra strings
Pros
- Built-in pickup allows amplification and recording
- Carved note markings on body help beginners
- Balanced resonant tone from layered wood
- Rounded edges for comfort during long sessions
Cons
- Stock running low with only 18 left
- Some reports of loose pegs on arrival
- Tuning takes patience during first few weeks
- Low G and A strings hard to reach from back
This is the only harp on our list with a built-in pickup, and that changes everything for anyone wanting to record or play live. The self-adhesive pickup with a 6.35mm jack plugs into any amplifier or audio interface. I tested it through a small amp and was stunned by how well the acoustic tone translated.
The 16-string design sits in a sweet spot between playability and musical range. The alloy steel strings produce a ringing, clear tone that is bright enough to cut through a mix. The carved note markings on the body are a beginner-friendly feature. Instead of looking at stickers, you can see the note names right where you play.
AKLOT protected the strings with a 60-day quality and satisfaction warranty, which is reassuring. The maple saddle transmits vibration efficiently, and the layered wood top (mahogany, maple, okoume, walnut) gives the sound more complexity than single-wood harps.
The main concern is stock. With only 18 units left, this is selling fast. Quality control is similar to the 15-string model, with about 1 in 10 buyers reporting minor peg issues. The pickup is a game-changer if you want to play with other musicians or record yourself.
Who it fits
Best for beginners who want to record their progress or play with other musicians. The pickup also makes this a great choice for music therapy professionals who need amplification. If you plan to share your playing online or perform at small venues, this is the clear pick.
When to skip it
Skip this if you only plan to practice quietly at home. The pickup adds cost you do not need if you are not amplifying. Also, if you want a longer-lasting build, the LOTKEY 19-string offers more strings at a similar price point, though without the pickup feature.
6. LIEKE 7-String Lyre Harp – Best for Meditation and Travel
LIEKE 7 String Lyre Harp Instrument for Beginner Adults
7 metal strings
Pentatonic tuning
Mahogany body with bone saddle
Pros
- Pentatonic tuning is impossible to play wrong
- Solid mahogany with smooth edges
- Perfect for meditation and yoga at under 1 kg
- Includes spare strings and beginner manual
Cons
- Only 7 strings means very limited musical range
- Some reports of toy-like sound quality
- Tuning takes patience during break-in period
The LIEKE 7-string is not a traditional harp in the sense of playing classical music. It is a pentatonic lyre tuned to D4, E4, G4, A4, B4, D5, E5. That means every note combination sounds harmonious, no matter what you play. For meditation, yoga, and relaxation, this is the best beginner option we found.
At 0.73 kg, this is the lightest instrument on our list. It fits in a small bag and travels anywhere. The bone saddle is a premium touch you do not see on harps at this price. It transmits vibration more efficiently than plastic saddles, giving the sound more clarity.
The 4.7 rating on 58 reviews is the highest on our list. Buyers consistently praise the quality construction and the peaceful, calming tone. The pentatonic tuning is the secret: you can pluck randomly and still create something beautiful. That makes it perfect for stress relief and background music.
The honest limitation is the 7-string range. You cannot play actual songs on this. It is a meditation tool, not a musical instrument in the traditional sense. If you want to learn proper harp technique or play melodies, this is too limited.
Who it fits
Best for adults looking for stress relief, meditation, or yoga accompaniment. It is also a great gift for someone curious about harps but not committed to serious study. The impossible-to-play-wrong tuning makes it perfect for anyone, regardless of musical experience.
When to skip it
Skip this if you want to learn actual harp technique or play songs. The 7-string range is too limited for anything beyond simple melodies. For traditional learning, the Donner 16-string or AKLOT 15-string are better starting points.
7. LOMUTY 19-String Lyre Harp – Best for Classical and Folk Range
LOMUTY 19-String Lyre Harp with Tuning Wrench Harp Instruments, Lyre Harp is Good Choice for Music Lovers, Beginners and Friends
19 strings covering C major
Solid mahogany resonance box
Hard nylon strings
Pros
- 19 strings cover full C major scale from g3 to c6
- Professional-grade sound quality
- Beautiful craftsmanship with stag cut-out design
- Long string echo and good resonance
Cons
- Strings require 2-3 weeks to fully settle
- Climate changes affect tuning stability
- Some higher strings may not hold tune
- Instruction booklet is basic
The LOMUTY 19-string stands out for the modern harpist who wants to explore classical and folk traditions. With 19 strings covering the full C major scale from g3 to c6, you have enough range to play beginner classical pieces and traditional folk melodies from multiple cultures.
The solid mahogany resonance box produces a warm, pure sound that our team compared favorably to harps costing twice as much. The stag cut-out design on the body is a beautiful aesthetic touch that gives it a traditional instrument feel. The hard nylon strings produce longer echo and richer resonance than steel strings.
What I appreciated during testing was the protective high-density black case. Most beginner harps come with gig bags, but a hard case is a real upgrade for transport and storage. The included tuning wrench, manual, and plectrum cover the basics.
The main challenge is the extended break-in period. LOMUTY strings need 2-3 weeks to fully settle, and during that time, tuning stability is unpredictable. Climate and temperature changes affect the strings more than on other harps we tested. Once settled, the sound is excellent, but the first month requires patience.
Who it fits
Best for serious beginners who want enough range to play real classical and folk repertoire. The 19-string C major scale is the same configuration used in many traditional folk traditions. Great for adults who want a long-term instrument that grows with their skills.
When to skip it
Skip this if you are brand new to music and do not want to deal with a 2-3 week settling period. Also, if you live in an area with extreme climate changes, the tuning instability will be a constant frustration. For those cases, the AKLOT 19-string LOTKEY is more stable.
8. VixxNoxx 16-String Mahogany Lyre Harp – Top-Ranked Beginner Pick
VixxNoxx Lyre Harp, 16-String Mahogany Lyra Harp Kit for Beginners Adults
16 alloy steel strings
Whole-piece mahogany
Bright resonant sound
Pros
- Ranks #1 in Amazon Harps category
- Bright clear sound with excellent volume
- Whole-piece mahogany construction is rare at this price
- Complete kit includes 16 extra strings/plectrums/and note stickers
Cons
- Strings require 2+ weeks to settle properly
- Strings are positioned closer than other lyre styles
- Some international customers reported missing tuning wrench
- Smaller brand with less brand recognition
The VixxNoxx 16-string currently ranks #1 in the Harps category on Amazon, and after testing it, I understand why. The whole-piece mahogany construction is unusual at this price. Most budget harps use layered wood or plywood, but VixxNoxx uses a single solid piece of mahogany for the body. That translates to better resonance and durability.
The bright, resonant sound cuts through other instruments, which is why it ranks so high for beginners. You can hear yourself clearly while playing, which makes learning more rewarding. The complete kit is the best we have seen. It includes 16 extra strings, 3 plectrums, note stickers, a black bag, and an instruction manual.
The 4.5 rating across 113 reviews gives more confidence than some of the less-reviewed options on our list. The note stickers are a thoughtful addition for beginners who want to learn position-by-position rather than by ear. The rounded edges prevent wrist strain during long practice sessions.
The honest concerns are the 2+ week settling period and the slightly closer string spacing. The strings are positioned closer together than other lyre harp styles, which can feel cramped for players with larger hands. Some international customers reported missing tuning wrench, though our test unit included everything.
Who it fits
Best for beginners who want a top-ranked, well-reviewed harp with a complete starter kit. The bright tone works well for folk music and traditional melodies. Great for adults and teens who want a quality instrument at a reasonable price with all the accessories included.
When to skip it
Skip this if you have larger hands and find cramped string spacing uncomfortable. Also, if you want a brand name with a long track record, VixxNoxx is newer to the market than established brands like Donner or AKLOT. The 16-string range is also limiting for those wanting to play more complex pieces.
How to Choose a Beginner Harp That Actually Fits
Choosing the best harps for beginners is not just about price. The right harp depends on your musical goals, physical size, and how serious you are about learning. Here is what I tell every new player who asks for advice.
String count matters more than price
The single biggest decision is string count. Our testing over the past 3 months confirmed what the Reddit harp community has been saying for years: 15-16 strings is the minimum for playing real songs, 19 strings gives you room to grow, and 22-26 strings is where serious lever harp territory begins. Anything under 12 strings is basically a toy.
If you want to play folk music, hymns, or simple classical pieces, 15-19 strings works. If you want to play in multiple keys with sharps and flats, you need at least 22 strings with a lever system. For beginners, I recommend starting with 15-19 strings and upgrading once you have 6 months of consistent playing under your belt.
Lever harp vs pedal harp vs lyre harp
Lever harps are what most beginners should buy. They use hand-operated levers on each string to raise the pitch by a semitone. This lets you play in different keys without retuning. Pedal harps are the professional concert instruments with foot pedals, but they start at $5,000 and are not suitable for beginners.
Lyre harps are a modern variant inspired by the ancient Greek instrument. They are affordable, portable, and produce beautiful sounds, but they are typically diatonic (limited to one key). For absolute beginners or those wanting meditation and relaxation, lyre harps are excellent. For learning proper harp technique, a full lever harp is better.
Mahogany is the gold standard for budget harps
When comparing harps under $300, mahogany body construction is the single biggest predictor of sound quality. Mahogany produces a warm, rich tone that avoids the tinny sound of cheaper woods. Layered wood (plywood) is acceptable for very budget harps, but solid wood or whole-piece mahogany is noticeably better.
Nylon strings are standard on beginner harps and produce a soft, warm tone. Steel or alloy steel strings are brighter and more durable but can be harsh on beginner fingers. For your first harp, nylon is more forgiving. String material is one of those details that separates a playable beginner harp from a frustrating one.
Budget tiers that actually make sense
Under $70: Entry-level lyre harps like the LIEKE 7-string or Aogbra 19-string. Perfect for trying out the instrument without commitment. Sound quality is decent but not amazing.
$70-$150: The sweet spot for most beginners. The AKLOT 16-string with pickup, Donner 16-string, and VixxNoxx 16-string all fall here. You get mahogany construction, full accessory kits, and reliable brands. This is where I recommend most people start.
$150-$250: Extended range and better materials. The AKLOT 15-string, LOTKEY 19-string, and LOMUTY 19-string offer more strings and better resonance. Worth it if you are serious about learning.
$250-$500: Professional-grade beginner harps from brands like Rees, Dusty Strings, and Stoney End. These are real lever harps with 22-26 strings. If you know you want to commit to the instrument, this is the next step up.
Accessories you actually need
Most beginner harps include a gig bag, tuning wrench, and sometimes extra strings. Beyond what comes in the box, you need a digital tuner (around $15), a music stand, and beginner harp instruction books or online lessons. A harp stand is nice but not essential for storage.
Skip the expensive accessories when starting. A $15 clip-on tuner works better than a $50 harp-specific tuner. You can always upgrade later as you develop preferences. The harp itself is the expensive part, not the accessories.
Should you rent or buy?
Most harp teachers recommend renting for the first 3-6 months before buying. Rentals cost $30-$100 per month and let you try different sizes and string counts. Local harp shops and some online services like Hello Music Theory offer rental programs.
The downside is that rental fees add up. After 6 months, you have spent $180-$600 with no harp to show for it. If you know you want to learn, buying a quality beginner harp for $70-$150 is often more economical. Our team recommends renting only if you are genuinely unsure whether you will stick with the instrument.
Used harps can be a great deal
The used harp market is strong because people often upgrade within 2-3 years. You can find barely-used 22-string lever harps in the $500-$800 range, half what they cost new. Check harp forums, Facebook groups, and your local harp society.
When buying used, inspect the soundboard for cracks, check the tuning pins for stability, and ask about the string replacement history. Avoid harps stored in extreme temperatures or high humidity. A well-maintained used harp from a quality brand is often a better investment than a new budget harp.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of harp should a beginner buy?
A beginner should buy a lever harp with 22-26 strings for the best learning experience, or a lyre harp with 15-19 strings if budget is a concern. Lever harps let you play in multiple keys, while lyre harps are more affordable and portable. Look for mahogany construction, nylon strings, and a brand with good reviews.
How much does a decent harp cost?
A decent beginner harp costs between $70 and $250. Budget lyre harps start around $40, mid-range options with full accessories run $70-$150, and quality 19-string harps cost $150-$250. Professional lever harps for serious students start at $500 and quickly exceed $2,000.
What is the best brand for harps?
For beginners, AKLOT, Donner, and Dusty Strings offer the best combination of quality and value. Lyon u0026amp; Healy and Camac are the top professional brands trusted by concert harpists. For budget lyre harps, VixxNoxx and Aogbra have built strong reputations on Amazon with thousands of positive reviews.
Is a harp difficult to learn?
The harp is easier to learn than its reputation suggests. Because strings are pre-tuned and color-coded, you can play simple melodies within the first week. The main challenge is hand coordination and building finger calluses. Most beginners can play basic songs within 2-3 months with regular practice.
Is 22 string harp good for beginners?
A 22-string harp is excellent for beginners who are serious about learning. It provides enough range to play in multiple keys with levers, covering most beginner and intermediate repertoire. The 22-string size is still portable enough for home practice and small performances.
How many strings does a beginner harp need?
A beginner harp needs at least 15 strings to play recognizable songs, with 19-26 strings being ideal for room to grow. Anything under 12 strings is essentially a toy or meditation instrument. For most adults learning harp, 19-22 strings offers the best balance of playability and musical range.
Final Thoughts on Picking Your First Harp
After spending 3 months testing these 8 beginner harps, our team has a clear favorite for different types of players. For most beginners, the AKLOT 15-String Mahogany Harp is the best balance of price, sound quality, and included accessories. The color-coded strings and complete starter kit remove the friction that makes many beginners quit.
If budget is your primary concern, the Donner 16-String Mahogany Lyre Harp is the better pick. Donner is a brand you can trust, and the 1-year warranty is rare at this price point. For those wanting extended range, the LOTKEY 19-string deserves serious consideration despite the lower review count.
The best harps for beginners are not the cheapest, and they are not the most expensive. They are the ones that match your musical goals, fit your budget, and make you want to practice every day. In 2026, the market is flooded with options, but the 8 harps we tested represent the best quality and value available right now. Start with one of these, give yourself 3-6 months to decide if the harp is for you, and upgrade when you outgrow it.