I have bought my XB40 (key C). I have to agree with
those, who complain about the playability out of the
box. For 90 euros, one would expect more, and not a
bit more. The quality looks fine, and precision
engineered. However, the playability seems problematic
which might be a design issue, not a quality issue.
Hole nr. 6 drawbend is very strange and hard to
control, and from hole 7 up, you get the annoying dog
whistle kind of noises. HOle 10 is uncontrollable and
nearly unbendable, also a bit airy. To play "piano"
(quiet), is not possible without dog whistles on the
upper notes.
On the lower notes (hole nr 1-2) at full bends you get
interference noises. So I am a bit disappointed.
The price to pay for the full bending range seems to
be certain loss of control compared to the traditional
diatonic harmonica.
This is my first impression. Certainly in the shop I
was told that there is no guarantee. If anybody has
any hints on this, it is highly appreciated.
Zombor