12 String Acoustic Harp Guitar: Timberline Guitars Bring Extended Range to Modern Musicians
The 12 string acoustic harp guitar stands as one of the most compelling instruments in contemporary acoustic music. Timberline Guitars has developed a line of harp guitars that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern construction methods, creating instruments that serve both novice and professional musicians. These instruments extend the sonic possibilities of standard acoustic guitars through additional bass strings and increased harmonic content.
History & Development of Harp Guitars
Origins in American Music
Harp guitars emerged in America during the late 1800s and early 1900s as manufacturers sought to create instruments with expanded range. Early builders like C.F. Martin, Gibson, and Knutsen developed various configurations, but most featured six standard guitar strings plus additional unfretted bass strings. The instruments gained popularity in parlor music and classical guitar circles before eventually declining in the mid-20th century.
Modern Revival
The harp guitar experienced a resurgence beginning in the 1980s, driven by musicians seeking instruments that could provide both melody and bass accompaniment in solo performances. Contemporary builders have refined the original designs, improving structural integrity and playability while maintaining the characteristic extended range that defines these instruments.
Timberline Guitars entered this market with instruments that focus on creating accessible harp guitars without compromising build quality, making harp guitars available to musicians who previously found them financially out of reach.
Timberline Construction Methods
Solid Wood Framework
Timberline builds all harp guitars using solid wood construction throughout. This approach differs from manufacturers who use plywood materials, particularly in entry-level instruments. Solid wood construction allows the instrument to develop tonally over time, with the sound typically improving as the wood ages and settles.
The company offers several wood combinations across their model lines. The T20 Series features mahogany tops, backs, and sides, providing warmth and midrange focus. Higher-end models incorporate exotic species like tropical acacia and silkwood, each contributing distinct tonal characteristics to the finished instrument.
Structural Engineering
The addition of extra strings creates significant structural challenges compared to standard six-string guitars. The extended headstock must support additional tuning machines while maintaining proper string angles. The body must handle increased string tension without compromising sound quality or long-term stability.
Timberline addresses these challenges through reinforced internal bracing patterns and carefully calculated bridge placement. The neck joint receives special attention, as the additional string tension places different stresses on this important connection point.
Sound Characteristics
Fundamental Tone Production
The 12 string acoustic harp guitar produces sound through multiple mechanisms. The six standard strings function identically to traditional guitars, providing familiar chord voicings and melodic capabilities. The additional bass strings extend the lower register, typically tuned to specific pitches that complement common guitar keys.
When played, the harp strings create sympathetic vibrations with the main strings, adding harmonic content and sustain to notes and chords. This interaction produces a naturally rich sound that appears to come from multiple instruments rather than a single guitar.
Frequency Range Extension
Standard guitars typically reach down to low E at approximately 82 Hz. Harp guitars can extend this range significantly lower, with some models reaching into the sub-bass frequencies below 50 Hz. This extended range allows for bass lines and pedal tones that would normally require a separate bass instrument.
The upper frequency response remains similar to standard guitars, but the increased string count and body resonance often result in more layered harmonic overtones throughout the frequency spectrum.
Playing Techniques & Applications
Right Hand Approach
Playing a 12 string acoustic harp guitar requires developing techniques that incorporate both the main guitar strings and the additional harp strings. Most players use their thumb to strike harp strings while using fingers for the main strings, creating a hybrid picking style.
The physical positioning differs slightly from standard guitar playing. Players must extend their right arm to reach the harp strings comfortably, and the instrument's larger size requires adjustment in playing posture. Most musicians adapt to these changes within several practice sessions.
Musical Styles
Harp guitars excel in several musical contexts. Celtic and folk traditions make extensive use of drone strings and open tunings, both of which harp guitars accommodate naturally. Fingerstyle players often gravitate toward these instruments because the extended range allows for more complete solo arrangements.
Contemporary acoustic musicians use harp guitars for atmospheric textures and harmonic depth. The instruments work particularly well in recording situations where layered acoustic textures are desired but multiple instruments are not practical.
Timberline Model Range
Entry Level Options
The T20 Series provides entry into professional-quality harp guitars, featuring solid mahogany construction throughout. This pricing makes harp guitars accessible to musicians who want to explore the instrument without making a substantial financial commitment.
These models include essential features like classical Venetian cutaways and high-comfort arm bevels, ensuring playability while maintaining build quality standards.
Premium Series
The T60 and T70 Series incorporate upgraded materials and appointments. The T70 models feature silkwood construction with Macassar ebony fingerboards and bridges, available in both parlor and full-size configurations. These instruments target professional performers and recording musicians who require the highest build standards.
Electronic Integration
Timberline offers acoustic-electric versions with dual K&K Pure Mini pickup systems. This configuration captures both the main guitar strings and harp strings separately, allowing for balanced amplification in live performance situations.
The pickup system maintains the acoustic character of the instrument while providing the output level and tone control necessary for professional performances and recording applications.
Maintenance & Care
String Considerations
The 12 string acoustic harp guitar requires attention to string tension and replacement schedules. The additional strings place extra stress on the instrument, making proper humidification and temperature control important for long-term stability.
String changes require more time than standard guitars due to the increased string count and the positioning of harp string tuners. Players typically develop efficient routines for string replacement as they gain experience with their instruments.
Setup Requirements
Professional setup becomes particularly important with harp guitars due to the additional string tension and alternative bridge configurations. The extended string lengths and multiple tension points require specialized knowledge for proper adjustment and maintenance.
Regular professional maintenance ensures optimal playability and prevents possible structural issues that could develop from the increased string tension over time.
Market Position & Value
Timberline has positioned their harp guitars to compete directly with instruments costing significantly more from boutique builders. Their factory production methods allow for consistent quality control while keeping costs manageable for working musicians.
The company's approach makes harp guitars practical options for musicians who want to expand their sonic palette without investing in custom instruments. This accessibility has contributed to renewed interest in harp guitars among contemporary acoustic musicians.
Conclusion
The 12 string acoustic harp guitar offers musicians expanded range and harmonic possibilities that standard guitars cannot provide. Timberline Guitars has made these historically significant instruments practical for contemporary players through quality construction, reasonable pricing, and thoughtful design.
For guitarists seeking to expand beyond traditional six-string limitations, harp guitars provide a logical progression that builds on existing skills while opening new musical territories. The combination of familiar guitar techniques with extended bass range creates instruments capable of solo performances that rival small acoustic ensembles.