arzajac
139 posts
Apr 11, 2010
1:52 PM
|
If I were to pay for just one harmonica lesson, it would be how to properly adjust the gaps on a harmonica.
I watched Joe Spiers's (Harpwrench) videos and they are very useful, but a more comprehensive source of information would be great. For example, how can you tell if the problem is your gapping or it's just a lousy harp that needs something more to make it work better (for example embossing or just getting better reed plates).
Joe spiers starts at the top of the harp and works down. is there any reason for that? For example, when tuning a guitar, it's better to start at the bottom and work upwards because the tension on the fatter strings can bring the thinner strings out of tune. Is there any logic similar to that which pertains to gapping (and starting at the high reeds?)
What's the best tool for gapping?
Where is it best to apply the pressure to the reed? Top, bottom, middle? Depends on the reed? If so, what are the details?
Is it possible to scratch the reed and mess up its tuning?
What mistakes are common which result in irreversible damage to the reed?
Would it be possible to come up with an algorithm? Something like (very simply):
1. Tighten the blow reed until it chokes under fast/hard blows.
2. Loosen it just until it plays.
3. Plink it a few times.
4. Check it to make sure it's still where you want it.
5. Tighten the draw reed until it chokes under fast/hard draws.
6. Loosen it until is plays under fast/hard draws and bends and/or overblow/draw.
7. Plink it a few times.
8. Check it again and repeat above as needed.
9. Move on to the next reed.
Can someone please add their thoughts to that?
Last Edited by on Apr 11, 2010 1:55 PM
|
