Harp stores, which are a type of string instrument, have a variety of options that affect the price. The number of strings on the harp, the type of wood or wood veneer used to make it, and the harp’s decorations or lack of ornamentation are all obvious choices. Other factors, such as the type of lever used, may go unnoticed a novice player but are crucial to a professional. In general, each manufacturer offers a variety of harps at various prices.
When purchasing a fundamental harp, the harpist pays the instrument’s base price. Optional equipment, such as different veneers, extra levers, or a pickup to electronically amplify the sound, is added to the base price if the harpist wants or needs it. The base price is usually determined the number of strings, the type of wood used the manufacturer, and the instrument’s style. Each company or retailer offers a variety of harps at various prices.
Harps are available in a variety of styles. The student style is usually purchased beginning harpists. These harps are less expensive than concert or chamber harps. There is a price difference even for professional harpists, ranging from the concert harp to limited edition harps, if the manufacturer offers them. Typically, the harp’s price is determined the finish or type of construction.
The laminated wood bases of most harps are covered with a veneer. Wood veneers come in a variety of prices, with walnut, maple, bubinga, and other exotic woods being the most expensive. Solid wood harps with no laminated parts are among the most expensive. Hand-painted and custom finishes are available from many harp manufacturers, but they are very expensive.
Gold leaf or faux gold leaf gilding, as well as inlays, are more expensive options. Abalone shell is one of the most popular inlays. The shell is usually inlaid on the soundboard, neck, and other highly visible areas. Purfling, which uses contrasting veneers, is another inlay technique. This is frequently used in conjunction with shell inlays manufacturers.
Some of the extras that increase the cost of a harp are more functional than decorative. Pedal harps are less expensive than lever harps in general. The price of a harp is affected the number of levers as well as the type of lever. Gut strings are more expensive than nylon strings, and harpists will pay more for them. The cost of a harp increases when a pickup device is added to accommodate an amplifier.
The cost of harp accessories is another expense that a harpist may face. The prices of dust covers, rolling carts and covers, and dollies vary. Benches can be low-cost student models or high-end models that match the harp’s wood and design.