[Harp-L] Re: 3rd World War (REEDS)

[Snaruhn@xxxxxxx]

Hi G,

you are so right in criticising Hohner`s fine-tuning. However, I´m
astonished to learn that files or scissels are still used as you said. 
Years ago Hohner built a new factory in Trossingen and I was told that 
since that time the reeds are tuned electronically. 

OK, I admit that I haven´t asked back what "electronical" really means.

I can´t count how often I have complained about the grooves of the factory´s 
final reed tuning as predetermined breaking points.  

< Instead of tuning the top reeds of key of C 12 holers down to get better 
< response - reduce the chamber size as much as practically possible  >

Hmmmh, here I made another experience. Once I made a Tenor CX 12 for
Michael Polesky but the test play revealed that the reeds of the 2 last
chambers sounded somewhat choked or dumb. But when I removed the 
chamber ribs and ramps the sound became noticeable "cleaner" or brighter.

So, though harmonica chambers don´t have a remarkable resonance effect 
like guitar or violin bodies (they are much too small), it seems to have a 
positive effect to make the chambers as large as possible and also to round 
the chamber bottoms like the Herings have. 

OK, there are numerous things which can be done to improve our
love-hated sandwiches.

Siegfried