The clavichord, used historically as an instrument for practice or composition, differs from both the piano and the harpsichord in its use of metal tangents to produce sound by striking the strings. Because the tangents are mounted directed on the back of the key lever, the clavichord has some degree of touch dynamics; since the tangents remain in contact with the string while the key is held down, the performer can create some semblance of vibrato by wiggling the finger on the key.

This particular clavichord is unfretted, meaning that each key get its own pair of strings (as opposed to the smaller fretted models, where neighbouring chromatic keys share strings. The beauty of the clavichord's timbre lies in its whispered tone and delicate clarity.