Re: [Harp-L] auto-valve harp

[Burke Trieschmann <burket@xxxxxxx>]

Last time I spoke with Hohner, they informed me that the Auto Valve is no longer in production.  Along with the 260 Chromatic.  

This is too bad as the parts from each can be combined to make some nice "session style"  loud octave harmonicas.  (I have seen them referred to as the "Bunker Busters" in previous threads).  They are based on a Rick Epping inspired design and there are few players on the list who I have heard use them to good effect.  Joel Anderson's fine playing comes to mind.  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM1AZdEAxJY
  
I still really enjoy this "Fun With Auto Valves" video posted by Richard Sleigh.  
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGpjfOuCA4M&list=PL8AFC5374E50E7A09&index=5

Maybe Winslow can clarify, but I think the older or alternate version of the Auto Valve is the Marine Band "Full Concert"?  Same style octave harp, just without the valves.  A bit leaky, but if you add your own valves I think it would be equal to the upgraded Auto Valve.  I've come across some of the Full Concert Octave harps on eBay that are in very good shape.  

I don't know much about the Seydel Concerto for comparison.

Burke T.



Message: 7
Date: Thu, 26 Sep 2013 20:58:08 -0400
From: Tom Martin <tomdmartin@xxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: [Harp-L] auto-valve harp
To: Winslow Yerxa <winslowyerxa@xxxxxxxxx>
Cc: "harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx" <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>,	"philharpn@xxxxxxx"
	<philharpn@xxxxxxx>
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thank you all for the info.

I will have to take a look at the Seydel Concerto.

Tom