How to Choose the Right Autoharp for You

Your Guide to buying the best Autoharps

Overview

An Autoharps buying guide provides you with the knowledge and information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing an Autoharp. This guide will cover the different types of Autoharps, their features, and the various factors to consider when selecting which Autoharp is best for your individual needs. Additionally, the guide will provide advice on how to get the most out of your Autoharp purchase and provide helpful tips on how to properly maintain the instrument.

Key features

  1. Type of Autoharp - Consider which type of Autoharp you are looking for: acoustic or electric, with a range of different features and prices.
  2. Number of Strings - Look at the number of strings each Autoharp has. More strings usually mean a better sound, but also higher costs.
  3. Tuning & Playability - Check the tuning and playability of the Autoharp. Consider how it’s tuned and how easy it is to play.
  4. Sound Quality - Look at the sound quality of the Autoharp, as a good Autoharp should produce good sound.
  5. Size & Weight - Consider the size and weight of the Autoharp, as it needs to fit comfortably in your hand and be able to be carried around without too much effort.
  6. Price - Finally, consider the cost and whether it fits your budget. Autoharps can range from reasonably priced to very expensive.

See the most popular Autoharps on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Versatility: Autoharps are incredibly versatile instruments that can be used to play a variety of music genres, such as folk, country, and blues.
  • Portability: Autoharps are lightweight and easy to transport, making them a great choice for musicians who need to move their instruments to gigs or lessons.
  • Easy to Play: Autoharps are relatively easy to learn, making them a great choice for new musicians.
  • Affordability: Autoharps are generally quite affordable, making them a great choice if you're on a budget.
  • Durability: Autoharps are made from sturdy materials and can last for years if properly cared for.

Cons

  • Price: Autoharps can be quite expensive, often ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the make, model, and condition.
  • Accessories: Accessories for Autoharps, such as strings, picks, and tuning tools, can be hard to find and expensive.
  • Size: Autoharps are large instruments and can be difficult to store, transport, and play.
  • Tuning: Autoharps require regular tuning and can be difficult to tune properly without the right tools.
  • Skill Level: Autoharps require a certain level of skill to play, and can be difficult to learn for beginners.

Best alternatives

  1. Melodica - a small, portable, keyboard-style instrument that is easy to play and sounds like a combination of a harmonica and keyboard.
  2. Accordion - a portable wind instrument with buttons or keys that are used to produce different notes.
  3. Ukelele - a small, four-stringed instrument that is easy to play and produces a unique sound.
  4. Harmonium - a reed instrument that produces a sound similar to an organ.
  5. Guitar - a six-stringed instrument that is played by strumming the strings.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Tuners - Devices used to adjust the pitch of the strings
  • Extra Strings - Additional strings for replacing broken ones or to customize the sound
  • Straps/Harnesses - Used to easily play the autoharp while standing
  • Picks/Pluckers - Tools used to pluck the strings
  • Cases/Bags - Used to transport the autoharp and keep it safe
  • Chords/Charts - Reference guides to help understand chords

Common questions

  1. What are the benefits of playing an Autoharp? Autoharp playing offers numerous benefits, including the ability to learn quickly, the ability to play in a variety of styles, and the portability of the instrument. Additionally, the Autoharp allows for easily creating complex chords, and the instrument's sound can be customized with different strings and tunings.
  2. What is the best way to learn to play Autoharp? The best way to learn to play Autoharp is to find an experienced Autoharp instructor who can provide personalized guidance. Additionally, there are numerous online resources, such as video tutorials and instructional books, that can help beginning players get started.
  3. What features should I consider when looking for an Autoharp? When looking for an Autoharp, it is important to consider the size, brand, and number of chord bars the instrument has. Additionally, it is important to consider the type of strings used as well as any additional features that may be included, such as a tuning lever.
  4. What is the difference between an Autoharp and a zither? Though both instruments have a similar shape and are both played with a pick, an Autoharp has chord bars and strings that are pre-set to certain chords, while a zither does not have chord bars and the strings are not pre-set. Additionally, an Autoharp usually has a dampener lever while a zither does not.
  5. How much should I expect to spend on an Autoharp? The cost of an Autoharp can vary greatly depending on the brand, features, and size of the instrument. Generally, entry-level Autoharps can range from $100-$200, while more advanced models can cost upwards of $1000.

Trivia

Throughout its long history, the Autoharp has been used in a wide variety of settings, from classical and folk music to modern pop and rock. But it was once also used as a prop in a farcical Broadway play in the 1920s. The play, “The Cradle Snatchers”, featured a character named “Professor Autoharp” who played a ridiculous version of the instrument as a running joke. The character was so popular that during the run of the show, the Autoharp began to be associated with comical entertainment. This legacy still lives on today, with many Autoharp players using the instrument for comedic purposes. Source: https://www.autoharp.org/history/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.