Re: [Harp-L] 2 draw reed on new MS plates

[Rupert Oysler <orupert@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

It sounds likely that the reed is slightly contacting the slot, not 
enough to buzz, or to stop, but enough to deaden the sound. Often it is 
hard to actually see this, since just a small part of the reed can just 
be slightly touching anyplace along it's edge and in it's travel through 
the slot. Try holding the reedplate so light is visible between the reed 
and slot edge (often holding over a piece of white paper with good light 
shining on it will work). Gently and slowly push the reed into the slot 
and let it return, several times, while observing what happens. Do this 
from both sides of the reedplate. Experiment with looking different ways 
to account for parallax. Even if you do not see the point of contact you 
will probably be able to determine that one side of the reed is passing 
closer to the slot. Work on that side with a small piece of abrasive 
paper (or possibly just a piece of feeler gauge, or one of those 
security strips will clear it). By continuing this process, and plinking 
in between, you should arrive at a clear ringing. Sometimes it will 
deaden again when attaching the reedplates to the comb, due to the 
slight change when tightening the screws. Then you can do some more 
clearing and try again....

Hope it helps,

Rupert Oysler
www.seydelusa.com


On 2/2/2011 8:31 AM, tom cox wrote:
> Hi
>
> I have just recieved some MS plates key of Ab. Began checking reeds for gapping etc and curvature. There seems to be a real problem with the 2 draw. Basically it sounds really weak and doesn't ring like the other reeds. I have tried gapping and profiling the reed to remedy this problem but it isnt really making any difference.
>
> Doe anyone have any advice on why this might be the case, faulty reed, or do i just need to persevere a little more with the gapping etc.?
>
> I have a bit of experience in gapping etc and am not new to it, I usually have good results etc. It just sounds dead in terms of ring and playability. Any thoughts and comment would be great from you techs and customizers.
>
> kind regards
>
> Tom C