Fwd: [Harp-L] defective Golden Melody?

["Tim Moyer" <wmharps@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Paul LaBrier wrote:
> I just bought a Golden Melody in the key of A.  Anytime I bend 
> the 3draw it produces a distinctive inging noise. It does not 
> do so on 3draw unbent.  I am a beginner, but normally do not 
> have trouble bending 3draw and getting a clear tone and this 
> does not happen on any of my other harmonicas.  I also tried 
> isolating the 3 hole usung my fingers to block all other holes.  
> It does the same thing.  3d is clear as a bell and 3d bent 
> produces the intended note plus a shrill ringing sound.

Paul,

There are a couple of things that can cause this.  First, the 
problem is with the 3 blow reed, not the draw reed, since it only 
happens with the bent note, which utlilizes the blow reed.  With the 
note played unbent the ringing doesn't occur, indicating that the 
draw reed itself is fine.  

First thing I'd try is running a small shim down the sides of the 3 
blow reed.  If you've got a small piece of 0.002" shim stock (a 
feeler gauge perhaps), that will work.  Some people use those little 
metal strips that come in the security tags inside CDs.  It could be 
that the reed is slightly off center, causing it to ring against the 
side of the slot.  

Failing that fix, I'd try either a small dab of nail polish at the 
roots of the reed at the rivet end, or a tiny piece of tape in the 
center of the reed, to stop the ringing.  For the first suggestion, 
see this page on Pat Missin's site describing the technique: 
http://www.patmissin.com/ffaq/q17.html

For the second technique, see this page describing the technique: 
http://www.planetharmonica.com/ph4/VE/TurboharpUK.htm

This problem is less common on Hohner (especially handmade) 
harmonicas than some other brands, but not unheard of.  

Good luck!

-tim

Tim Moyer
Working Man's Harps
http://www.workingmansharps.com/