I have a Prelude — an older model and am very happy with the sound as well as the look of the harp. I have a student who just purchased a brand new Prelude 40 and I was really impressed with the price and the trade up deal he got. Unless you get an amazing deal on an older harp — my recommendation is to go with the new Prelude 40 that you can trade up to a pedal harp one day — if you choose.
By the way — although I own a pedal harp — I use my Prelude to play harp jobs. I am able to get a very good sound from it and people enjoy the look of the harp. If your daughter decides to move forward with her harp playing — she will eventually play places and get jobs and the Prelude presents well and yet is easy to lift and move. This might not mean alot to her right now — but it will to you –who will probably be her harp mover. hahahaha
One more thing– you are giving your daughter a great “gift” — not just the harp — but also the harp lessons. Music and the harp especially – is something she can enjoy her entire life.