Heartland Starlight pedal harp

[jennifer-buehler]

I would not expect this to be less expensive than a wooden pedal harp. Since Heartland is striving to make the harps as light as possible they do not use the vacuum bag method of drying. Using the large autoclaves is quite a bit more expensive.

[Allison Stevick]

In case anyone was wondering, Dave Woodworth sent out a newsletter yesterday, and the Starlight harp is going into production.

They also have an amazing new wood-look finish they can do on any harp. (Part of me wishes that was an option a few years ago!) 🙂

Here is the Starlight website:
http://www.starlightharps.com

[faye-fishman]

I have a Delight for a couple of years now. Love it. Best thing I did. I don’t do many gigs(trying to get more) but it’s wonderful. For St. Patrick’s day I do use my Aziliz for a brighter sound.
Couple of questions–What strings do you use? The bass strings are silver plate and they tarnish. Does that affect the sound? what do you do to clean it? Time to change the strings so curious what you use and how you like the sound.(I have the original carbon fiber strings on now)
Only problem (and slight problem at that) is that sometimes the pins slip. I think Dave may have made improvements in that area.

[Allison Stevick]

Hi, Faye!
I have nylon strings and wound metal bass strings. Once the metal strings tarnish, I don’t think there’s a way to get them shiny again that doesn’t do damage (maybe someone else can correct me if I’m wrong). I think the easiest way to take care of discolored strings is prevention–wiping them down with a clean cloth (I’ve used ones designed for wiping metal guitar strings) after playing can help prolong the shiny surface. My strings are due for a change soon, and I’m sticking with nylon. I like how they sound, but to be fair I’ve never played anything *but* nylon…
About the pins slipping, it should be an easy fix. Loosen the peg a few turns. Then, while bringing the string back to pitch, push the peg into the neck.
I hope that’s helpful! Maybe someone else can weigh in on their string preferences with the Delight.

[faye-fishman]

Allison- thanks very much. just ordered new wires and will look into the cloth for cleaning guitar strings, didn’t know about that.
I have fluorcarbon strings which is about twice the price. I may try to compare the sound at Somerset when Dave is there. Thanks again

[Allison Stevick]

Oooo have fun at Somerset! I have long dreamed of attending, and hope to sometime in the next couple years!

[Jerusha Amado]

Does anyone own one of these yet? I’d like to hear opinions of its tone and projection. I’m also wondering if its light weight vs. its 74″ height causes any balance problems.

It’s great that you can add a highly-figured design to the carbon fiber material; however, from the photos I’ve seen thus far, the clunky aspect of the column and base detract from the aesthetic for me.

[tenthousandclowns]

I went by the shop and got to play one of these. I thought it was great, especially the bass notes I felt were un-muddy. They would be an excellent choice for anyone who moves their harp often or plays in hot or cold or dry or humid places. He said you can leave it in your car on a hot day or leave it in cold weather… he also poured some water on it for me… ha ha I am so glad that Dave is pushing the boundaries!

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