Aussiesucker
Guest
0 post
2-Jul-2008
5:41 PM
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Has anyone had any experience in using the new 1847's with stainless steel reeds? They seem super expensive but if indestructable and dishwasher safe then they could be worthwhile. For about the same price as an 1847 it is possible to buy 3 good harps like MB or LO's. Would like to hear some views of users other than from the paid pro's.
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OEuropean
8 post s
3-Jul-2008
1:01 AM
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Have a look at the end of this thread http://www.modernbluesharmonica.com/board/board_topic/5560960/357439.htm Remember, I'm just a 'raw' beginner!
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DavidC
3 post s
3-Jul-2008
1:47 AM
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You might find a review by Christellester on Youtube interesting. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3GkaE7Knrc. Although she is a Seydel endorser it should give you an idea of the sound. I have just bought one to try but like OEuropean I am pretty much a beginner so I can't vouch for the overblow out of the box demonstrated in the video but it feels good to play, a bit heavier than the Sp20's I tend to use and a good bit louder, there is no central support on the cover plates so they could be prone to crushing.
Last Edited on 3-Jul-2008 6:39 AM
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Jeff
127 post s
3-Jul-2008
9:01 AM
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It has a very full tone and it is LOUD - one of the loudest harps I've ever touched. The comb is curved for more comfort (especially if you're a tongue-blocker). Once you're used to it, I wish Hohner would adopt that style. And it's pretty airtight - nothing mindblowing. It's definitely on the bright side. I prefer the darker tone of a Marine Band/SP20. But it's a wonderful harp. It looks like a piece of art in your hand; very snazzy. I don't buy into the whole "steel lasts forever" thing. Steel, though it's stronger is actually a much more brittle alloy than brass/bronze. The characteristic that makes reeds lives longer is actually elasticity. This is why Suzuki's Phosphor Bronze reeds last so long. Steel is not a very elastic alloy which leads me to believe that these steel reeds won't last as long as some may have you think. All in all, I think the 1847 is a bit overpriced for what it is. I would just get a real custom if you're spending $100 on a harp.
Last Edited on 3-Jul-2008 9:12 AM
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Bobbyred16
9 post s
3-Jul-2008
9:07 AM
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It is really personal preference, my advice would be to just buy one to start and see if you like it. I have tried many different Hohners and suziki's. I just stick with the Sp 20's cause of the sound and beacuse that is the most comfortable thing to play for me. I wish I could modify the Sp 20, with more open covers in the back and an tighter seal.
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bluzlvr
43 post s
3-Jul-2008
1:16 PM
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I also have tried a lot of different harps and aside from my custom harps, the Special 20 is my favorite. In fact one of my customs IS a Special 20 and the covers are opened up and the harp is definitely louder, which makes me wonder why don't they make 'em that way in the first place? If you go to the Feb 2008 issue of harmonicasessions.com there's a how-to article on venting the Special 20 cover plates. I'm thinking of expermenting on some old cover plates myself...
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Aussiesucker
Guest
0 post
3-Jul-2008
3:14 PM
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Thanks for the feedback. I guess I am a believer (wrongly?) that with a top quality look good expensive harp then I play much better! I have a few Promasters & whilst they make me feel and play great(?) my favourites ie the ones I find myself playing most of the time are Harpmasters which cost only $16. I have a full set of Bluesmasters and the longevity of their phosfor bronze reeds is amazing! Nothing matches a Marine Band for its marvelous gritty tone but I am put off by the nails. I like to be able to easily strip my harps & give them a thorough cleaning. I guess I will have to think about it a bit before forking out $100 for a harp. Too many choices!!! Have been playing around with some Lee Oskar alternate tunings ie Harmonic Minors, Natural Minor & Melody Maker- wow. Not your usual choices for blues but they are sensational harps.
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