segueable
1 post
Jul 26, 2010
6:20 PM
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I'm getting a short, annoying, high-pitched ringing sound right after letting go of 2 draw on my A harp. I don't get it when I bend the 2 draw or when I ease off very gently. It sounds fine while I'm playing the note, but once I let go, I get the ringing. I dropped the harmonica on the sidewalk a week ago, so I'm concerned there might be something wrong with the reed. I haven't played my A since a week ago, though, and I'm fairly new (I'd guess advanced beginner or intermediate on a C) so I'm not sure. Do you think there's a problem? If so, what is my best option if I want an A harp that doesn't hurt my ears when I play it?
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ElkRiverHarmonicas
515 posts
Jul 26, 2010
10:35 PM
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The reed is out of alignment.
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Big Nancy
74 posts
Jul 27, 2010
2:27 PM
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You have a few options... one would be to get used to it. If you buy and use harps straight out of the box it is something that you will either have to get used to or learn how to avoid... as you mentioned by adjusting to the way you use that reed. Or replace the entire reed plate.... or have the harp repaired. there are many guys on here that seem capable of doing just that... it will cost you though.
This may have come from the fall but it is not unlikey that it may have come from the factory in this condition either, so don't beat yourself up.
If it sounds good bent... then bend it some more!
Good luck!
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tookatooka
1594 posts
Jul 27, 2010
3:29 PM
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Remove the cover plates and check the alignment of the two draw on the bootom reedplate. Gently press it down with a toothpick and see if it's hitting the reed slot anywhere along the length of the reed. (Magnifying glass may help).
If it is, you may need to gently realign the reed in the slot. You would really need a tiny reed wrench to grip the square rivet end of the reed but careful use of small pliers could be used if you are handy with four fingers and very careful.
If it's a Suzuki harp with spot welded reeds, I'm not sure what you can do apart from replace the reedplate.
Good Luck, let us know how you get on.
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segueable
2 posts
Jul 28, 2010
6:40 AM
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Thanks for all the information/advice. I'll see if I can open it up tonight and let you know from there.
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GermanHarpist
1654 posts
Jul 28, 2010
6:46 AM
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Plink the reed to check if it swings without obstruction... that could already sort out the problem.
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segueable
3 posts
Aug 11, 2010
6:35 PM
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I finally opened it the other day, and after finding that the bottom cover plate was stuck between the lower reed plate and the comb, unscrewing the reed plates, and reassembling everything, I don't seem to get the sound anymore. I also accidentally had the lower plate scrape very, very lightly across part of the reed plate, but I don't think that had any effect.
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