[Harp-L] Re: low note tuning problem

[Rick Epping <rickepping@xxxxxxxxx>]

If this problem has not occurred on similar harps with different tunings,
I'd guess the reed might be momentarily oscillating at a higher mode through
a frequency pulling influence from the closely tuned, opposite reed.

But I have encountered this problem on both harmonica and accordion reeds
that were not in proximity with other reeds of a close pitch.  In every
case, the reed was relatively thin and flexible, as it would be on the
2-draw of a low F.  You might try replacing that reed with one from a higher
key, maybe Bb or C, to which you add solder to bring back down to the
desired pitch.  The milled section of a such a reed will be thicker and
stiffer, and might be more resistant to kicking into a higher oscillation
mode.

Rick

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Message: 11
Date: Mon, 29 Aug 2011 01:37:40 -0700
From: Robert Hale <robert@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: [Harp-L] low note tuning problem
To: harp-L list <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
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       <CAMLFfH5YzUKGw5sUcOUM23NA+PHjSzeFy4SzLyDPCEG79xk78A@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
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I am getting a one-of-a-kind honk noise when I play blow-draw quickly on
hole 2. Never heard this before. Can't see anything different about the
reeds. In this case it's a half-step interval in my spiral tuning. Low F
plates.

When sounded separately, each reed responds clean and fine. BUT when rapidly
going between blow and draw, it honks, chirps, (rattles?) as the Blow reed
starts. Almost as if the frequency of the new note is beating against the
trail of the preceding one. Just a momentary noise, not sustained. Does it
with covers off.