The Autoharp may not be widely known, but its unique sound and simple playing method make it highly rewarding.
(Pictured above: An autoharp by Oscar Schmidt (left), and June Carter Cash playing an Autoharp).
Invented in the late 19th century, the autoharp is claimed by several German inventors. It’s a zither that lets us play single chords by pressing specific buttons. Let’s explore the 7 best autoharps available today.
My top recommended autoharp is the Oscar Schmidt OS45CE (Acoustic/Electric Autoharp). This quality autoharp features a striking design and can be amplified.
My second recommended autoharp is the ChromaHarp 21 Chord Auto Harp. It’s slightly below the average price of most autoharps and is a great quality choice for beginners.
The 7 Best Autoharps for Beginners and Pros (2026)
Let’s compare these in more detail.
1. Oscar Schmidt OS45CE (Acoustic/Electric Autoharp)
Oscar Schmidt is the most well-known and widespread manufacturer of autoharps globally. They originally coined the term autoharp, which now generally refers to the instrument.
Autoharps started as acoustic instruments but were amplified in the ’50s and ’60s, similar to guitars. The OS45CE is a great example of an acoustic/electric autoharp that can be plugged into an amp with an instrument cable.
It has passive pickups and is made of spruce. There’s a beautiful sparkle finish and a flower-shaped soundhole.
This is a great instrument for stage performances. You can easily amplify it while still enjoying a gentle, quality sound.
2. ChromaHarp 21 Chord Auto Harp
ChromaHarp is an excellent beginner autoharp. It offers 21 chords and 37 strings, arranged with three rows of chord buttons.
This instrument has a stunning black body and torsion-tight tuning pegs. Its pre-stressed maple frame and top provide an authentic sound.
Sound is soft and quiet, making it perfect for small apartments. A great choice for beginners, it lasts long and offers a good value.
3. Oscar Schmidt OS15B Autoharp
If you’re after a simpler harp with fewer chord options and easier playability, consider the Oscar Schmidt OS15B.
This 15-chord autoharp is a quality instrument. It features a maple body with a sunburst finish. Equipped with a rock maple pin block, it helps keep your strings in tune.
This instrument is a classic, acoustic autoharp with a beautiful sound. It’s smaller in size but still an excellent choice.
4. Oscar Schmidt 21 Chord Autoharp OS21C
OS21C is a great 21-chord model. It features 37 strings and has chromatic chord bars arranged in three rows of buttons.
The sound quality is great and the instrument comes tuned, ready to play straight out of the box. It also includes a tuning wrench and has a fine tuning system.
Featuring a stunning sunburst finish and crafted from maple, this autoharp is a fantastic choice for both beginners and pros alike.
5. Oscar Schmidt OS73B Autoharp
This is likely the most beautiful instrument on the list.
OS73B is a standard 15-chord autoharp made by Oscar Schmidt. Crafted from maple, it features a spruce finish.
Sound-wise, it offers a handmade quality you’ll love. The design features a stunning black finish with adjusted string pins for a cleaner look, maintaining the same sound quality.
6. Oscar Schmidt OS150FCE Autoharp
The OS150FCE autoharp stands out for its high quality, much like the others on this list. You’ll be impressed by its glossy finish and the quality of the wood. It doesn’t just look good; it sounds incredible!
The most impressive feature is its finish. With a 21-chord design, this autoharp shines. Its high-quality build ensures durability and longevity.
This option stands out as a well-rounded choice.
7. Oscar Schmidt OS11021FNE Autoharp
The pro-grade choice on the list to top it all off! The OS11021FNE 36-String is a masterpiece. It’s an absolute fan favorite and a popular choice around the globe for autoharps.
Granted, the price is a bit steep compared to others on the list, but with good reason. The quality of this particular autoharp is unmatched. Its slick design and superior sound properties outshine the competition.
If you want a top-tier autoharp, look no further!
How does the autoharp work?
The Autoharp, a type of zither, features a mechanism that lets you easily play chords. Press a button, and it mutes strings not part of the chord, allowing only the correct ones to resonate. Imagine pressing guitar chords with just a button.
The autoharp typically backs up with strumming chords. However, over time, people have found ways to play melodies by plucking strings while selecting different chords.
It has a sturdy build, usually mahogany or maple body, with solid spruce. You might find a flame maple or spruce top occasionally. They boast excellent finishes like satin or gloss. The overall layout of the instrument is dazzling.
If you get one, have the necessary gear like a solid gig bag for safe storage. Also, ensure the product comes with a year warranty for safety.
Is Zither the same as an autoharp?
Though they’re in the same family, the autoharp and zither are different instruments. Most importantly, you have to pluck the zither’s strings yourself, while the autoharp lets you play chords effortlessly.
How to tune an autoharp
Autoharps are tuned like guitars. You can do it by ear, though I suggest buying a cheap automatic tuner, available everywhere. You’ll also need a key to turn the pin heads on which strings are mounted. Tightening raises the tune, while loosening lowers it.
Is it hard to learn to play the Autoharp?
Actually, it’s one of the easiest instruments to learn. Just press a button to get a chord ready to go. With 15 to 21 chords available, learn the button locations, and voila – you’re a master musician who’ll always get the song right.
How many strings does an autoharp have?
Autoharps usually have 37 strings today, though historically, the number varied. Some models feature 47 or 48 strings, depending on the musician’s preference and scale. However, you can rely on the traditional 37-string autoharp when shopping.
Where the Autoharp came from
Autoharps appeared in the late 19th century, developed by different inventors with the same goal: creating a simpler zither. The zither is a German instrument that traces its origins to the ancient Greek cithara, which also led to the creation of the guitar.
Notice how an autoharp works like a guitar, using strings and a hollow body to produce sound through a resonator box.
Autoharps were initially played like a zither, laid flat, but holding them upright proved easier and more versatile. They’re now common in folk music, often paired with a violin, guitar, or piano.
Conclusion
Autoharps are beautiful instruments with superb sound capabilities. This list offers options for beginners to pros, including affordable and high-end choices.
My top autoharp pick is the Oscar Schmidt OS45CE (Acoustic/Electric Autoharp). This high-quality autoharp features a stunning design and delivers a rich, well-rounded sound.
My second autoharp pick is the ChromaHarp 21 Chord Auto Harp. It’s more affordable and perfect for beginners.
Featured images by Alexandre Zindel / CC BY-S (Oscar Schmidt autoharp) and Larry D. Moore / CC BY-SA (June Carter Cash playing an autoharp)
