RE: [Harp-L] Seydel vs. OTC harps

["Tom Klingl" <tom.klingl@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Richard Hunter wrote:
 
> I emboss the reed slots with a penny, after which I tune and gap.
> I've learned to play overblows on LOs so they don't squeak.  
> But there are limits to what you can do with an overblow
> on an LO--for example, how you have to approach the note,
> how long you can hold it, etc.--and I extend the limits gradually.
> I use a lot of special tunings too, so it's often easier
> for me to switch harps than to use OBs.

Thank you Richard for giving that insight. 

> I've been wondering whether it's really a good idea to emboss 
> the reed slots on the harps I've recently purchased.
> As manufacturing techniques improve, the reed slots should
> be near-perfect when the harp leaves the factory.
> Making them tighter may not be a great idea.  But 
> gapping is always necessary, except in the rare cases
> where the tech at the factory somehow set the harp up
> for exactly the way you like to play.

Reading your recent description of the harmonicas you purchased,
I personally would wait with embossing. Concerning gapping: I recently
also purchased a Harpmaster in the key of A. At present
I think I only could ruin it, if I would try to regap.
I consider myself lucky and I hope this wasn't a single case ;-))

Kind regards, Tom