[Harp-L] Free reed tuning tool

[Michael Easton <diachrome@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Over the years I've seen harpers post uses for security tags you find  
on cds and other products.

I finally decided to take one apart. Besides using the thin metal  
strips to gauge the lining of reeds in the slots another thing
you can do with it is lift blow reeds on both diatonic and chromatic  
harps for tuning without the need to poke an object inside to raise it.

I've been using very thin feeler gauge to do the same thing for over  
10 years now but found it can be done with the security strips as well.

Take one piece of the metal and  cut a narrow strip off the metal  
strip enough to slide it down the front of the reed slot.  Cut it just  
long enough to go down past the reed and be able to catch it  
underneath.  Next pull up while pulling the down the strip toward  
you.  Bala bing! the spring action forces the reed to pop up through  
the slot.  You will need to slide a thicker piece of feeler gauge  
under the reed to support it while tuning.

I was going to market a reed lifter using feeler gauge but decided to  
make the idea public domain. Enjoy.


Michael Easton
www.harmonicarepair.com