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?
