Terre Jew´s Harp Botchag B1 (H1)

This was bought based solely on the images. It caught my eye as being handmade as the frame appeared to have slight irregularities in the picture. It appears to be a Russian made harp and is of good quality. The sound is higher than I expected - B1 sounds to be a low tuning but this harp is higher than expected (though still tuned to B.) I prefer that so as to play melodically rather than a lower bass sound.

The tongue is nicely stiff but not excessively so and the end is rounded, making both inward and outward plucking easier. I like the shape as well, though that is a matter of taste, of course. The frame does indeed have very small irregularities indicating hand finishing rather than mass production. The size is 8.5 x 3.25 cm.

The gap between the frame and the tongue is small. This is essential for a good harp - a large gap means no sound - and is an indication of quality. The tone is clear and the sustain is good. I would say a professional level jews harp not a toy. I find it comparable to my Black Fire harps from Hungary which are certainly considered good quality by the jews harp community.

I have found that you cannot get a good jews harp for a cheap price and would avoid cheaper offers, for example, Schwarz which have hardly more than a plunky thud being heavily varnished. I find them unplayable compared to harps of this quality and would urge some research if you are looking to tk up this instrument. In GBP, £30 up to £90 appears the price range.

In short, bought on spec and turned out to be very pleasing, just what I had hoped for at this price. Possibly different tunings will be stocked at some point?