Re: custom harps

["Stephen Shaw" <moorcot@xxxxxxx>]

>From: "Scorcher" <s_c_o_r_c_h_e_r@xxxxxxx>
>Subject: Re: custom harps


>  "david j. brown" asks:
>
> > I'm at a point where my wallet can handle buying custom harps and I
>want to
> > start adding them a couple at a time. I'm interested in people's
>opinions
> > about the various makers, sellers, types, etc.

>Scorcher replied:

>>>>>Seriously, though, you didn't mention wanting any paticular
>"playability" improvements...
>Why don't you invest in some tools & tweak a few yourself? Try gapping
>for OBs, re-tuning, etc.
>Then maybe you'll have a better idea what YOU want from a custom
>builder.>>>>>>


I may not be adding anything new here but I think Scorcher's is the best bit 
of advice any harmonica player can receive, once past the absolute beginner 
stage.  Buy the Lee Oskar tool kit, with its excellent "how to" manual, and 
start looking at the inside of your harps.  You'll soon be making minor 
adjustments that will transform the playability of your instruments.  All 
the better if you have a chromatic tuner too.  I haven't bought a stock 
harmonica yet that was "perfect" for me straight from the box.  I'm not 
talking about saving money here, rather getting a good understanding of the 
how and why of reed response to your style of playing.  You'll then be able 
to enter a much more constructive relationship with the custom builders.

Good luck!

SteveShaw.


Want more than the blues?  Try Irish!
http://mysite.freeserve.com/trad_irish_harmonica


>

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