Re: [Harp-L] diatonic repair

[philharpn@xxxxxxx]

When all else fails, check with Hohner. One of the problems (?!) with the new MB is that tuning is a compromise between the old standard Just Tuning and Equal Temperament. 


Just when people are getting into tuning and re-tuning their harps, the specs change. So what used to be a rather straightforward project has suddenly gotten more complicated. 


So the issue is not so much about raising the pitch of a flat reed but raising it to the proper pitch so that it fits with the other reeds. How much is your time worth? When was the last time you taught yourself a new skilled trade? Another issue is what if you ruin the reed?  Also, getting the proper tools and tuners will cost you a few bucks -- likely more than three new harps (or repairs on 3 harps).



I don't know if Hohner posts the tuning specs for its harps.  Rupert Oysler has an excellent DVD on how to repair/tune harps that is available from several dealers on the web.



You might be further ahead checking with Hohner and having Hohner doing the work. At least you would know that the tuning would meet factory specs. Plus, you might have other reeds out of tune you don't even know about.


Phil
























-----Original Message-----
From: Vern <jevern@xxxxxxx>
To: johnny <toh3rd@xxxxxxx>
Cc: harp-l <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Fri, May 17, 2013 2:57 pm
Subject: Re: [Harp-L] diatonic repair



On May 17, 2013, at 10:55 AM, johnny <toh3rd@xxxxxxx> wrote:

> I'm sure this has been covered before but I have a couple of the Crossover 
Marine band harps that are not very old. A- C and a D, I have an extremely flat 
draw note on each harp and a stuck high blow. Although I have been playing for 
40 yrs. I have not learned how to work on harps. In the past I'd just buy a new 
one. Harps have gotten so expensive that I can't really afford to do that any 
more! I'd love to hear how to repair these harps if it is even possible.   John

The flat reeds could be simply out of tune.  If that is the unlikely case, a 
simple tuning up could fix them.  It is more likely that the reeds have fatigued 
and need to be replaced. If so, the cost might approach that of a new harp.  In 
either case, the repair will require the diagnosis, advice, and services of a 
professional.

You might be able to fix the stuck blow reed yourself.  The most likely problem 
is an obstructionâ.hair, dried saliva, dust particle, fried chicken, etc.  The 
remedy is to pass a thin strip of metal through the gap between the reed and the 
slot.  A strip from the inside of a theft-prevention tag would work.   ORâthe 
stuck reed might be misaligned over the slot.  Straightening it would require a 
"reed wrench."   They are included in all manufacturer's tool kits.

Vern