[Harp-L] overblows or XB-40

[Paul Bowering <paul_bowering@xxxxxxxxx>]

Okay. I'm new to the list. I've played casually for
some years but have become inspired to take it to the
next level. After discovering this list only a month
ago I've added overblows (never knew they existed) and
bought an XB-40 (never knew it existed). 

Since I don't have a lot of time invested in either
(yet) I'm looking for advice as to which of these to
pursue. Although differences of expression are a
consideration my main concern is chromaticity on a
diatonic. Here's some particulars:

1) I can get nice overblows on holes 1,4,5 and 6 but
continue to struggle in gapping the reeds just right
so that they maintain a balance between overblow
capability and not choking for regular notes. I
haven't been able to get any overdraws happening. Do I
just keep practicing technique and/or harp mods? One
thing in favour of overblows is that they seem to have
a timbre that is closer to regular notes than can be
acheived with bends (on the XB or any harp for that
matter).

2) Having read the archives before my purchase I
heeded its advice and accepted the XB on its own
terms. I've got one in the key of A and I like the
harp but have to fight the draw notes on holes 7,9 and
10. Anyone know specifics on the peculiarities of this
revolutionary harp and how to make it a bit more
responsive.

3) Although I could abide the above item I can't live
with the torsional squawk ala Lee Oskar from some of
the high bends. Is the old nail polish/beeswax fix
worth a shot? I'm a little leery of experimenting on a
$100+ harp. Like I said, a lot or new info injust one
month.

Thanks to all for their collective knowledge and
insight.



		
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