Piro39
71 posts
Sep 02, 2014
8:05 AM
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Is it redundant to replace Manji and Crossovers with aftermarket combs? I do all my own customizing which includes embossing, reed work, flat sanding draw plates, and replacing combs etc. I Have had great results in transforming not so great playing out of the box harmonicas into very playable instruments. I'd like to know if aftermarket comb replacement on these two models would be an upgrade. What's your experience?
Last Edited by Piro39 on Sep 02, 2014 8:06 AM
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smwoerner
265 posts
Sep 02, 2014
8:36 AM
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I wouldn't consider replacing the Manji or Crossover combs to be much of a performance upgrade. It could be a personal upgrade if you prefer wood, plastic, composite, or some other type of comb material.
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Purveyor of Optimized New and Refurbished Harmonicas.
scott@scottwoerner.com
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arzajac
1459 posts
Sep 02, 2014
8:58 AM
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I sell high-performance combs, but I would never try to convince anyone to buy something they don't need.
Both the Manji comb and Crossover comb can be made flatter than out-of-the-box. In the case of the Manji comb, it won't swell after you flat sand it. The Crossover comb doesn't need to be sealed after you flasand it, but it will probably last longer if you do seal it - just make sure you are keeping it flat. Repeat the process until it's both sealed and flat.
If you feel the Manji tines are uncomfortable, you can chamfer than and seal them with something that will make them smooth and comfortable. The Manji comb is also of smaller dimensions than the reed plate and some folks don't like that. Most don't care.
So while it's not mandatory to replace these combs, I think it's mandatory to do a minimum amount of work on either of them to make the harp airtight. For those who would rather buy a drop-in replacement for $16.50 instead of doing the work of sanding, sealing and finishing the comb, aftermarket combs are available.
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Custom overblow harps. Harmonica service and repair.
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atty1chgo
1102 posts
Sep 02, 2014
1:54 PM
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I primarily use Suzuki Manji harps. I was given a harp comb made of Corian (I think) about three years ago, and installed it in my D harp. It IS an upgrade over the factory combs. I can hear the difference, no doubt about it. It is a lot tighter seal than my other Manjis.
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SuperBee
2185 posts
Sep 03, 2014
3:38 AM
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The thing I primarily dislike about manji is the comb. I find it unpleasantly rough, like a raw wooden comb.once long ago I shaved back the tines on a swelling MB and left them raw and un sanded. When I tried a manji, that's the memory which sprang to mind.
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