What harmonica should I buy, and where?  You wouldn't believe how many people ask me this question.

If you're in the market for a harmonica or two and don't have a good local music store nearby, I'd encourage you to order from one of the following suppliers.  As I note on the FAQs page, I've been using the plain old Hohner 1896/20 Marine Band harmonica for more than 30 years and still think it's the best sounding and most reasonably priced stock instrument on the market.  You do NOT need to spend $100-200 on a customized harp in order to get a terrific sound.

Here's a quick link (USA and Canada) if you'd like to start with the exact same harp that I started with, and still use today:

 

Much as I like Marine Bands, I would encourage you to try several different makes and models and see which feels and sounds best to you.  Below are links to two reputable suppliers.  I purchase my own harps from Musician's Friend:

 

In the USA and CANADA:

 

In the UK and EUROPE:

I'm afraid that I'm not currently recommending any European suppliers.  If you've had a particularly good mail-order experience and want to recommend one, please contact me:  asgussow@aol.com

 

 

For USA/CANADIAN players who want to take the plunge and purchase a serious starter kit of 5 Hohner Marine Band harps in the keys of G, A, C, D, and E, here's a great deal from Musician's Friend.  This would make an excellent Christmas or birthday present for the harp player in your life who has been limping along for years on a couple of battered, flatted-out trash harps.  There is nothing that raises a harmonica player's spirits than a fresh set of swords:

Hohner Case of Marine Bands Harmonica 5-Pack