Page "Guitar" Paragraph 30

Harp guitars are difficult to classify as there are many variations within this type of guitar.

They are typically rare and uncommon in the popular music scene.

Most consist of a regular guitar, plus additional " harp " strings strung above the six normal strings.

The instrument is usually acoustic and the harp strings are usually tuned to lower notes than the guitar strings, for an added bass range.

Normally there is neither fingerboard nor frets behind the harp strings.

Some harp guitars also feature much higher pitch strings strung below the traditional guitar strings.

The number of harp strings varies greatly, depending on the type of guitar and also the player's personal preference.

The Pikasso guitar ; 4 necks, 2 sound holes, 42 strings and also the Oracle Harp Sympitar ; 24 strings ( with 12 sympathetic strings protruding through the neck ) are modern examples.