Why could the harpsichord play only one dynamic level?

The harpsichord produces sound through plucking strings with quills, which results in a consistent volume regardless of how hard or soft the keys are pressed. This mechanism does not allow for dynamic variation since the plucking action is fixed and does not respond to the player's touch. Consequently, the instrument is limited to a single dynamic level, leading to its characteristic bright and articulate sound. Musicians often compensated for this limitation through the use of different stops and registrations to create varied tonal colors.