[Harp-L] Suzuki Manji Harmonica solves 'out of the box' Diatonic issue for me at last.

["Billy James" <billyjames@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I don't how many harpler's have already reviewed or sung the praises of the Suzuki Manji Diatonic. However, as usual, I'm up for putting in my 10 cents worth? I've got to say this is 'the' out of the box harmonica that I've been looking for [at a reasonable price].For my style which includes a very sweet pitched/ faded vibrato, I'm totally impressed. An excellent instrument and 'a very real step forward' with the welded exacting reed alignment system and comb etc.I used two Manji's [Keys D & C] at our four hour rockin' blues gig last Saturday night. These harps were a total pleasure to play. A very fluid, fast, easy response and amazing clear tone all the way from 1 to 10 [maybe a 'little edgey' chorded through the rig, but I like that...bit of gnarly 'grunt' if wanted]. As a majorly improvisional blues player I found 'the tone' and response actually inspired new licks like never before. Presently, in my working case; I own a variety of five 'customised' harps [I like Manji better than those well adjusted wood and plastic combed hot rods]. There also is full kit of Marine Band Deluxe [which stick on some keys out of the box for me] a good harp but Manji are better for my playing, also a couple of Seydels Soloist Pro's and a Session [nicely made instrument were my very recent choice until now], plus I"ve got literally dozens of fresh Special 20's and Lee Oskars [minor/major] as back up. I like the Suzuki 'Pure Harp' too, but it's rather more expense [with Roswood comb and Rosewood cover plates]. The 'Pure Harp' is a beautiful treat indeed especially for acoustic performing, however be prepared to a 'retro design' not unlike a cross between the old Huang shape cover plates and a Marine Band.If you haven't got a Manji yet I really think you are missing out.This is only my humble opinion/recommendation to those who are interested [no controversy created,hopefully]. Obviously, some of the Meisterclass metal combs style and Firebreath are very 'cool' to play indeed.I think it's great that the larger companies are creating these much better products with easier overblows etc.Also if you have a 'name' custom harp, good luck to you there is some beautiful custom work happening.For me personally I have felt increasingly frustrated with 'out of the box' diatonics for several years now and finally [for me] "thank heavens" it looks like the Manji solves the issue.They really are much much better to play for anyone who really has it really going on 'tonewise' or a player that just wants a nice 10 hole harmonica to play in acoustic settings for fun. *[Hmmm...I wonder how long they'll last the test of time]?