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 three reputable suppliers--one in the US, two overseas:

In the USA and CANADA:

In the UK and EUROPE:

and..............

Hohner Case of Marine Bands Harmonica 5-Pack

CUSTOM HARPS:

If you're in the market for a custom harp, there are many fine models to choose from.  When I finally broke down and decided to spend some bucks for my first custom harp after 34 years of out-of-the-box harps, what did I go for?  A Joe Spiers model customized (State II) Hohner Marine Band.  I spent my own money on it.  I love it.  (And no:  I don't make a cent for offering this testimonial.)  That should tell you all you need to know:

http://www.spiersharmonicas.com/index.html

If you're in the market for a slightly cheaper custom harp, then I'd urge you to check out Knucklehead Harps.  I haven't actually played one of Mark Munoz's cleaned-up and tweaked pre-owned Marine Bands, but I like his approach so much that I'm putting his link here.  Take a look at his website.  He gives you a very informative sketch of the steps that he takes to bring a harmonica back from the dead.  I love his approach:

http://knucklehead-harps.yolasite.com/