Akume Sonnet Lap Harp (includes gig bag)
Custom Test Model Sonnet
About this model
This was an attempt at making a lighter weight version of the Sonnet Lap harp. We modified our original design in a couple of ways to reduce the weight down to 7.5 pounds.
This model is made with akume wood which is a lighter weight wood but still quite stable. We have stained the wood to an amber red color.
We made modifications to the neck and pillar making them out of laminations of akume wood. The laminations allowed us to make the neck and pillar thinner while maintaining structural stability.
Finally, we reduced the width and depth of the body taking off even more weight.
Ultimately, we decided not to pursue this model. While we did get the weight down significantly, the harp doesn't have quite the full, rich voice of our standard sonnet. This is most noticeable in the lower end.
We've had the harp around the shop for about a year so it shows a little wear. Still - it's a great little harp and super portable. It deserves a good home.
Here is a quick sound sample:
The Sonnet Lap Harp has been a long time in the making and we worked hard to pack the tone of a full-size harp into this small, portable, lap harp.
A full 4 octaves beginning on C below middle C gives you plenty of range; more than most lap harps. The string set provides an even tension from top to bottom. Squarely in the medium tension range, the strings are comfortable on the fingers but still capable of expressive dynamics.
Beyond the look and tone, this harp is designed specifically for comfort. The cant of the neck, the angle of the base, the asymmetrical sound chamber, and the balance point all make this harp sit gracefully on your lap with little to no effort.
A final innovation are the access holes which are placed on the sides instead of the traditional location in the back panel giving the player a richer sonic experience.
What's Included:
- Finished Sonnet Lap Harp with Camac Levers
- Padded Gig Bag
- Tuning Wrench
- Spare nylon strings
- Free shipping in the Continental US
Product Manual
Stephanie Claussen demostrates the Sonnet Lap Harp.
Akume Sonnet Harp Key Specs
Strings | 29 strings |
Range | C3 to C7 (String Chart) |
Weight | 7.5 pounds |
String Spacing | Narrow |
String Tension | Medium |
Size | 34" tall, 24" deep, 11.5" wide |
Soundboard | Aircraft Birch |
Body, Neck, Pillar | Akume, stained amber red. |
Optional Stand
Simple, elegant, and versatile - the stand for the Sonnet Harp is a great accessory.
Detachable arms can be installed at two heights - one for playing and one for display.
When not in use, you can remove the arms and place them in the cutouts. Magnets hold the arms in place. Fold up flat for easy storage or transort.