[Harp-L] Replacing Suzuki Welded Reeds: VIDEO

["Brendan Power" <bren@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Suzuki are unique in using a welding process to attach their harmonica reeds
(all other brands use the traditional riveting method). Welding allows for
very precise alignment of the reed in the slot, because the reed is held in
place at the optimum position before being fixed by the weld. With riveting,
the pre-made holes in the reed and reedplate are what set the reed in
position.
 
So that's good, but one big issue for many players about Suzuki harmonicas
is "How do I replace a reed when it goes?". One option is to simply buy
replacement reedplates, but that could be a bit expensive. Besides, many
players these days want to get more hands-on with their harmonicas and
replace individual reeds.
 
Suzuki do make a punch tool for replacing chromatic and tremolo reeds, but
it is heavy, very expensive, and only available to a few company employees.
It's not a practical option for most players, and certainly not the majority
who play diatonic harps.
 
Well, help is at hand! I've come up with my own very simple and reliable
process. It only takes about 5 minutes, and uses basic tools that most
players will own already. I've made a short video to demonstrate how to do
it:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kChMKU7LEVo
 
You will see from this how easy and quick it is to replace Suzuki welded
reeds - in fact, about as simple and fast as replacing a riveted reed. As
with all new techniques, try first on an old harp before fixing your
favourites.

Cheers,
 
Brendan Power
WEBSITE: http://www.brendan-power.com
YOUTUBE: http://www.youtube.com/BrendanPowerMusic