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Looking for some advice on buying a second hand harp: Dusty Strings Ravenna 34
A couple months ago I bought the 8 years old 26 strings Dusty Strings Ravenna harp that I had rented for almost 2 years. It is my first harp, I have learned playing on it and I like it very much, but have always been on the lookout for the 34 strings version, as it’s definitely more versatile. I am pleased with this model for now though but a couple days ago, my instrument shop presented me with an old and fairly cheap 34 strings version of the Ravenna.
It was rented for a while and then put on hold until someone decided to buy another (newer) harp. Now I am torn as this opportunity looks too good to be true: it would only cost $300 or an extra 1/6 of what I have initially paid for my 26 strings harp. Both have the full sharping lever set.
I have played that 34 strings once. It sounded all right to me but I’m certainly not an expert on this. It definitely needed some regulating and repairing as one of the lever is broken and others are too close to the strings. I noticed some scratches but nothing that seemed major (not noticeable while playing). Aesthetically, I prefer my 26 strings as the wooden pattern has more of a twist and looks less polish. I don’t consider this a deal breaker though.
Because this will likely be my life-long harp, I want to take the right decision and I’m asking you your opinions:
1) What are the other things I should be looking for/watching out for in this new harp before going for it?
2) What would be your recommendations on buying a harp that has been rented for a long time (the shop gives a 3 month full warranty from the date of purchase and an annual full warranty is available for $100)?
3) Should I pass on it and wait for another opportunity?
Thanks a lot for your help and let’s continue to learn playing the harp together
PS: I have also posted this on the Facebook page.
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1 Reply
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hello Cloe, I’m confused about the $300. if that is also trading in your 26 to get the 34. Here are some signs to watch out for. make sure there is no separating spaces between the sound board and base. Make sure the belly of the sound board is not to raised (some is normal) stand behind the colmn and see if the arm is inline and not curved or bending towards the string side (caused from string tension and week wood structure) also if the levers are damaged and strings need replaceing check the cost of these repairs and the age of the harp. It may be just better to keep looking, and check other adds. When in doubt trust your gut and if something seems too good to be true probably is. if your talking a forever harp, I don’t think you want to start with issues
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