I spent much time trying to learn to play overblows, but I just couldn’t master it. I hope this is a possible workaround solution.
I’d like to be able to play the 6 hole overblow note, without using the overblow technique. It is my understanding that on a C harmonica, 6 hole overblow is a Bb.
My question is this.... If I use a key of C Suzuki Promaster MR-350V which allows note bending in the blow as well as the draw cycle, am I able to play a Bb by simply playing a 1/2 step draw bend or a whole step blow bend on hole 7 ?
I am aware that a Bb is available by employing a 1/2 step draw bend on hole 7 with the key of C Suzuki SUB30 Ultrabend harp, but that is a pretty pricey model. Can I accomplish my goal with the Promaster MR-350V ??
Yes, the 7 draw should be capable of giving you that note, if you can master the technique and if the harps are built well enough to deliver it. Some of my mr350v harps had glue in some slots and wouldn’t give any note at all. That was a long time ago, I’m sure they’re well past those problems
I didn't get on that well with the valved bends as I had to take such a careful and soft approach to the bends that they were of no use to me as they didn't integrate with my playing style. There was some valve noise as well at times.
I didn't buy any more of the valved ones and ended up removing the valves apart from hole one which worked a bit better than the others and gave me a lower note at that end of the harp.
The harp feels good to hold, with good full length covers and has a nice tone. I don't like the metal comb that much as it gives a tingle on the tongue when you rest your tongue on the comb.
I think I heard that PT Gazelle has a model made by Seydel that uses different, softer valve material that is easier to bend?
If you don't already have this here is a table to indicate the possible bends on a half valved harp showing the 7 draw bend giving the Bb.
I really need to wail on that Bb. A soft approach just wont do. In fact, the tune I am learning requires an entire 12 bars of a wailing Bb on the 6 hole overblow!
Does anyone know if the Suzuki SUB30 Ultrabend will do any better than the Promaster MR-350V as a 7 hole 1/2 step bend ?
Or am I doomed to continuing to master the 6 hole overblow?
id probably make a custom tuned harp. you could raise the 6 draw to Bb, which would allow you to still bend it to A and Ab if you want, or you could lower 7 draw to Bb, and then you could get the B should you need it, as a blow bend on 7.
Jaybird: overblowing just got a whole lot easier with the Overblow Booster:
The overblows and overdraws are not just much easier to get, they sound stronger and louder too.
The SlipSlider is another way to go that gives full chromaticism with normal bends:
As you can hear, it gives you a wailing Bb bend down from 7 blow. This is the Mk1. I'm shortly releasing a Mk2 SlipSlider that's simpler and cheaper. It will add a bend on 7 draw to the blow bend, so you'll have two ways to easily get that Bb note.
Another approach you could try is the Suzuki SUB30, which gives full chromaticism with bends using x-reeds. However it only comes in limited keys and the performance of the stock harp is not great, requiring extensive embossing to reduce air loss in the 20-reed upper reedplate. But if you do that it works well, allowing you to bend the 7 draw to get that Bb note. You can also add some of Tom Halchak's extra parts to enhance SUB30 performance further, from Blue Moon Harmonica.
So don't despair: there are new options to give you what you're after!
Last Edited by BeePee on Jul 14, 2018 10:03 PM
Sorry not the standard Bluesmaster - the harps need to have open-back covers. Maybe if you open the back of the Bluesmaster covers, but I haven't tried that myself.
Brendan, I can open up the backs by grinding away the lip on the edge. But will there be enough room under the Bluesmaster covers for the height of the Overblow Boosters?
I just did a test and they will fit inside the Bluesmaster covers. However they are a bit short, as they only extend to the edge of the reedplate itself, not the plastic comb. Not sure if you can get a good seal without doing some extra work on the covers – that’s up to you.
