[Harp-L] Comb Debate Confusion

[Sheltraw]

At the surface between materials of different acoustic impedance there will be a reflection of sound waves. This may explain, through the bone conduction path, part of the differences that they player of an ACE may hear.

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> On Jul 23, 2017, at 4:43 PM, Brendan Power <bren at xxxxx> wrote:
> 
> Whenever this issue comes up, people often don't distinguish between
> discussing whether comb differences can be perceived by the audience or the
> player. There is a big difference.
> 
> 
> 
> It's been conclusively proven by Vern in past tests that the audience can't
> tell the difference between comb materials. It's a done deal. However
> players constantly state that they can hear a difference between, for
> example, a brass comb and a wood comb on the same harp. And not just is
> weight, but sound. 
> 
> 
> 
> I'm one - I think for the player there IS a difference. With a harmonica
> being so close to the ears, cupped in the hands and actually inside the
> body, perceptions are heightened and the 'whisper in the wind' that Vern
> mentions becomes audible. Especially for players who have got attuned to one
> type of comb or the other on a favourite harp, a significant change of comb
> material on the same harmonica can be noticed. 
> 
> 
> 
> Vern and I tried to test this together at one SPAH but unfortunately the
> test harmonica used was not up to snuff, since it did not get a close
> airtight seal to the different combs that were tried. It had visible air
> gaps. This poor-playing harmonica caused the test players to become scornful
> of the whole exercise and deliberately subvert it with nonsensical scores.
> Fair enough too - the test was not good enough. 
> 
> 
> 
> It's still possible to do such a test well and find a conclusive answer to
> whether players can perceive differences in sound between comb materials.
> But after the last experience I wouldn't want to put my neck on the block
> again to find out! Hopefully some other enterprising tester will come along
> in time and we can eventually put this issue to rest.
> 
> 
> 
> Brendan
> 
> <http://www.brendan-power.com/> www.brendan-power.com
> 
> <http://www.youtube.com/BrendanPowerMusic>
> www.YouTube.com/BrendanPowerMusic
> 
> 
>