The 21 chord kit that is produced for us by Oscar Schmidt is made in China, and would be a direct fit on a new, China made instrument (a fair estimate is anything made past the mid to late 1980's as well) Although some people have luck with the kit as a starting point on an old instrument conversion, it is not for the timid. We have been told by customers that the spacing precut in the felts do not line up perfect, particular on the outsides of the chord bar. And that some tooling and drilling is required on the brackets sometimes on an old instrument conversion.
The measurements are as follows- total width of chord bar is 10 and 3/16" . The comb that supports the bars is 6 and 1/4" . And the cover that goes over everything is 11" x 6 and 5/8" .
All Autoharps manufactured by Oscar Schmidt are tuned Chromatic when sold. Every autoharp could be tuned Diatonic, it would be up to the owner to re-tune them.
Oscar Schmidt told me the 73 series OS73B (15 chord), and the OS73C (21 chord) are the lightest models they have. The average weight is 9-10 pounds.
There are 4 OS11021 models. They are the OS11021FN, OS11021FNE, OS11021FHSE and the OS11021FHS. The only two that have an electric pickup are the OS11021FNE and the OS11021FHSE. The "E" at the end of the AutoHarp model numbers designates if they have the electric pickup on ALL the models. If it does not have the "E" in the model number it is not an electric model, it is strictly an acoustic model. There is a pickup that can be added to the 21 chord models if wanted for acoustic models, it is part AP442.
11. Is an autoharp easier to play than a guitar?
An autoharp is generally easier to learn than a guitar. An autoharp uses chord bars that automatically mute the strings you don't need, allowing you to play full chords by simply pressing a button-like chord bar while strumming. This eliminates the need to learn complex finger positions, making it easier to play songs right away.
A guitar requires players to form chord shapes with multiple fingers, build finger strength, and coordinate both hands to produce clean notes. While the guitar offers greater versatility, it often has a steeper learning curve for new musicians.
12. Where can I buy Oscar Schmidt autoharp strings?
You can buy Oscar Schmidt autoharp strings from the accessories tab, which carries both complete string sets and individual replacement strings. Under picks/strings,
Oscar Schmidt Type A and Type B strings are listed.
13. What is your privacy policy?
14. How do I return a product?
15. How do you attach a strap to an autoharp?
Please use the following link to describe how to attach the strap to an Autoharp:
16. Shipping price
Thank you for your inquiry. Could you please send us the exact name or link to the product you are looking to purchase, and from there we can put you in contact with the correct department. Thank you!
17. Is an autoharp easy to learn?
Yes. The autoharp is considered one of the easiest string instruments for beginners. Since the chord bars automatically damp unwanted strings, new players can focus on rhythm and timing instead of learning complex finger positions. With regular practice, most beginners can play simple songs within a short period of time.
18. What brands of autoharps do you sell?
AutoharpStore.com specializes in quality instruments from trusted manufacturers, including Oscar Schmidt, along with replacement parts, strings, cases, tuners, and accessories designed specifically for autoharps.
19. How often should I replace autoharp strings?
How often you should replace autoharp strings depends on how frequently you play, the string material, and the instrument’s condition.
• Regular playing: Replace strings about every 1–2 years, or sooner if they lose tone or become difficult to tune.
• Frequent performance: You may need to replace them every 6–12 months.
• Occasional playing: Strings can last several years if they remain in good condition.
• Replace immediately if a string is broken, visibly corroded, badly discolored, or has developed noticeable kinks or flat spots.
20. What are Type A and Type B autoharp strings?
Type A strings are designed for older Oscar Schmidt autoharps manufactured before approximately 1968 and feature loop ends.
Type B strings are used on newer instruments and include ball-end designs for modern bridge systems. Selecting the correct string type is important for proper installation.
21. How do I tune an autoharp?
Use a
chromatic tuner and an autoharp tuning wrench. Tune each string individually while checking the correct pitch. Since autoharps have many strings, tuning may take time, but regular tuning keeps the instrument sounding its best. AutoharpStore.com also provides tuning guides and instructional resources.
22. Why won't my autoharp stay in tune?
Common causes include:
• New strings stretching
• Temperature or humidity changes
• Worn tuning pins
• Aging strings
• Infrequent maintenance
Most tuning issues can be corrected through proper maintenance and string replacement.
23. What accessories do I need for my autoharp?
Popular
accessories for your autoharp include:
• Chromatic tuner
• Tuning wrench
• Gig bag or hard case
• Replacement strings
• Picks
• Autoharp stand
• Strap
• Chord bar felts
These accessories help protect your instrument and improve your playing experience.
24. What causes buzzing on an autoharp?
Buzzing may be caused by:
• Loose strings
• Worn felts
• Improper tuning
• Loose hardware
• Damaged bridge components
Inspecting and maintaining these parts usually resolves the issue.
25. How long does an autoharp last?
A quality autoharp can last for decades with proper care. Regular string replacement, proper storage, routine tuning, and occasional maintenance help preserve both tone and playability.
26. What music styles can you play on an autoharp?
The autoharp is commonly used for:
• Folk
• Country
• Bluegrass
• Gospel
• Americana
• Celtic music
• Traditional hymns
• Singer-songwriter performances
27. Do autoharps require regular maintenance?
Yes. Routine maintenance includes:
• Keeping the instrument clean
• Replacing worn strings
• Checking chord bars
• Replacing felts when needed
• Storing the instrument in a protective case
• Maintaining proper humidity levels
These steps help maximize the life of your instrument.
28. Why buy from AutoharpStore.com?
AutoharpStore.com specializes exclusively in autoharps and accessories, offering a wide selection of instruments, replacement parts, instructional resources, knowledgeable customer support, and maintenance guides. Many Oscar Schmidt autoharps are professionally inspected and adjusted before shipment to help ensure excellent playability and sound quality.
29. What tuning wrench do I need for an autoharp?
Most modern autoharps, including many Oscar Schmidt models, use a standard
square-hole autoharp tuning wrench that fits the instrument's tuning pins. A properly fitting wrench makes tuning easier and helps prevent damage to the tuning pins.
If you own an older vintage autoharp, especially one manufactured before the late 1960s, the tuning pins may differ slightly. It's a good idea to identify your autoharp's make, model, or approximate age before purchasing a replacement wrench to ensure compatibility.
30. How often should I tune an autoharp?
An autoharp should be checked for tuning before every playing session. Because it has many strings, even small changes in temperature, humidity, or string tension can affect its tuning. Regular tuning keeps your instrument sounding its best and helps maintain accurate chords.
How often you'll need to tune depends on several factors:
• New autoharps or newly replaced strings: Tune frequently, as new strings stretch and may need several tuning sessions before they stabilize.
• Regularly played autoharps: Check the tuning before each use and make minor adjustments as needed.
• Occasionally played autoharps: Tune before playing, especially if the instrument has been stored for a while.
• After seasonal weather changes: Changes in temperature and humidity can cause the wood and strings to expand or contract, affecting the pitch.
31. Can I upgrade an older autoharp?
Yes. Many older autoharps can be upgraded with:
• New strings
• Replacement chord bars
• New felts
• Pickup systems
• Conversion kits
• New tuning accessories
AutoharpStore.com offers parts and installation guides for many common upgrades.
32. How should I store my autoharp?
Store your autoharp:
• In a protective case or gig bag
• Away from extreme temperatures
• Away from direct sunlight
• In a stable indoor environment
• Away from excessive humidity or dryness
Proper storage helps protect the wood, strings, and internal components.
