Re: Subject: Re: [Harp-L] SPAH 2010 Comb Test: Retraction & Apology

[Slim Heilpern <slim@xxxxxxxxxx>]

I used to feel the same way about this. I was certain that the wood  
must make a difference and thought that's why my 270s sounded sweeter  
than any of my other chroms. I've played 270s since I was a little kid  
and am very familiar with the way they feel and sound.

Then, a number of years ago, I purchased a customized 270 with an  
acrylic comb. I just knew it wouldn't sound the same but wanted to  
hear what it did sound like. I have tried my own blindfold test  
comparing a new 270 (wood) to the custom one (acrylic) multiple times.  
I have recorded the results in my studio. At first I couldn't believe  
it. I can not tell the difference at all, either while playing or  
listening back. They both sound great, and have that classic 270  
sound. So, this changed my mind on the subject. I no longer think the  
comb material affects the sound at all.

That's not to say that someone with different or better ears couldn't  
tell the difference, but this simple test convinced me that it doesn't  
matter at all to _me_. ;-)

- Slim.

www.SlideManSlim.com
www.JazzHarmonicaSummit.com
www.SlideManSlim.com/blog

On Sep 1, 2010, at 2:15 PM, rob paparozzi wrote:

> I can hear a distinct 'warmth and richer depth' on a wood comb be it  
> chromatic or diatonic. I have played on MANY non wood combs over the  
> past 40 yrs and I can hear the difference.
>
> I don' think you have a pianist or violinist having a materials  
> debate, I wonder why?
>
> Best,
> Rob Paparozzi
> Sent from my Verizon crackberry phone!