Re: [Harp-L] XB-40 report, Hohner Crossover question

Matthew Smart <matthewsmart@xxxxxxxxx> · Mon, 27 Aug 2012 23:56:29 -0400

I think the crossover is a better design, but they are still too airy 
for my taste.
Recommendations from me:
1) Check if the comb is flat. It should be, but not always. Just hold 
the harp up to the light and see if you see any light peeking though the 
reedplates and the comb.
2) The reed gapping is the most important and biggest impact that you 
can have. It would not be cost effective to hand gap the reeds in the 
factory like a customizer does. You can just work them down a little 
further into the slot or decrease the spacing in between reed and plate 
and  you will notice a difference.
3) Embossing helpful, but Hohner has done a fantastic job of tightening 
the slot tolerances recently. Gapping the reeds will be your biggest 
bank for the buck.
4) MBD/Crossover parts are interchangeable.
5) Rupert Oysler has the most complete customization video resource out 
there.
6) Ok, shameless sales pitch. I self a great handmade brass reed gapping 
tool and the rupert video here www.harptools.com
Good luck!
On 8/27/2012 9:45 PM, Trip Henderson wrote:

Here's a follow up to my previous question as to what to expect from
Hohner's customer service after receiving a poorly tuned XB-40 (from
Elderly Instruments who do not take returns on "mouth instruments"). Hohner
was great, they replaced the instrument, no questions asked, quick turn
around. Yeah Hohner!
Now, how do I get this thing more airtight? I work on my Filisko/Sleigh
harps (tune, change reeds) but have not had to emboss, etc. Any advice
greatly appreciated.
A friend asked me to work on his MB Crossover, key of D. Are the parts in
these harps the same psychical dimensions as standard Marine Bands?
Thanks for the know how!