Is there any lever harp that sounds similar to Salvi Iris?

[dynavo07]

Hi everyone,

I’m a beginner so hopefully this is not a silly question..
Is there any lever harp that sounds similar to Salvi Iris ? I rented a Prelude 38 and this particular harp sounds bright and crisp, while I’m looking for a smoother, darker, clean and clear sound.
I’m going to a few centers to try out some harps. Has anyone had experience with Salvi Hermes?
Thank you!

Reference: https://youtube.com/shorts/4oA5Jb8FJ6o?si=0LfVRjIy54UJu33w

• This topic was modified 1 year, 5 months ago by dynavo07.

[sarafigal]

Pratt. That’s your best option, hands down.

[balfour-knight]

I agree about Pratt, and also the Salvi lever harps themselves. Probably the pedal-tension ones would suit your tastes the best. You would need to test-drive them yourself to make sure the tone pleases you, so enjoy “going to a few centers to try out some harps.” Have you also considered a small pedal harp, like the 40-string Daphne by Salvi? Such a harp could be latter traded up for the Iris!

Best wishes in your quest,
Balfour

[ThatOneHarpist]

I agree with Balfour with the 40-string Daphne by Salvi. However, if you are looking for something a little smaller in size and price, the Dusty Strings FH36s has an EXCELLENT sound!! I brought mine to my harp teacher’s house and started practicing in the living room. Everybody who had their back turned to me thought I was playing her Concert Grand Lyon and Healy. It is not as beautiful as the Salvi Iris or Hermes, but the sound is superb.

But honestly, Dusty Strings harps are severely underrated. They are super durable and have such amazing sound. It honestly sounds better than my pedal harp. It has a much mellower tone and is super clear! If you are a beginner I would suggest this harp (or any other Dusty Strings).

Hope this helps
ThatOneHarpist

[balfour-knight]

My all-time lever harp of choice is my cherry Dusty FH36S! I found her in 2015, the most gorgeous lever harp I had ever experienced and played. After I got her, I sold all my other lever harps, as I would not have played them after finding my “Cherie.” Since then, she is still Number One!

It is very easy to go from Cherie to my pedal harp, a Camac Atlantide Prestige in maple, which, in my humble opinion, has no other equal among pedal harps, either! “Angelica” is the pedal harp I play at all my concerts, except when I use Cherie, and I can play no other harps that please me as much as these two “princesses” do!

Hope this helps. Harp hugs to all of you!
Balfour

[dynavo07]

Thank you everyone for your input! I appreciate it so much. I am new to harp column so I actually am unsure how to respond to each of you. But I took down all the names of the harps you mentioned and listened to their sound. After going to a few centers and tried many harps, I have decided on Salvi Hermes, sound is smooth and clear, not very dark but I like its warmth. I’m planning to make a move after the holiday. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

[balfour-knight]

happy Thanksgiving to all of you, too!
Balfour

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