My friend loves hers.

The Chicago harps I saw and played at the factory were all good. But if you want a harp to keep, get one that has 47 strings and an extended sounding board, which one of the Chicago models has. You will outgrow a 40-string harp quickly, musically speaking, and the way the economy is, don’t assume your parents will be able to buy you more than one harp. Get the best one you can if you are going to stick with it. If it’s possible, get a 23, or a Salzedo. If not, then a 30 or 100. If those are too much, then an 85 or Chicago.

Hi Emily. I agree with the other comments regarding getting the most strings

Since you have a definite budget, talk to your teacher about finding a good, used harp. You can get more for your money as long as you’re careful to buy a harp in good condition that has been examined by a reputable harp technician so you will know it doesn’t need any major, costly repairs. Check the CPO list on the Lyon & Healy website and the used harps on this website, too. When deciding on size of harp, consider your height now, the fact that you may grow taller, and your possible potential height based on your family. A good semi-grand should last you a lifetime, but it’s hard to practice or play on something that’s way too big for you if you’re petite (I speak from personal experience!). Remember that once you buy a harp, you’re not stuck with it the rest of your life if things change. You can re-sell it and work toward another that’s right for you, even if it takes a while to get there. Lots of harpists do.