[Harp-L] Special 20 vs. Seydel Session Steel?

[Tony Eyers <tony@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Scott posted

"My harp of choice for a couple of years has been the Hohner Special 20 
but I was
thinking of trying the Seydel Session Steel."

The Seydel Session Steel costs about twice as much as the Special 20, so 
you'd expect it to be better. I've not played it, however some famous 
players on this list (e.g. P.T. Gazell) play Seydels, so you won't go wrong.

That said, if you are planning to spend more on your instruments (highly 
recommended), it is worth looking at the offerings in this price range. 
For example, the Hohner Crossover, again around twice the cost of the 
Special 20. I've been mighty impressed with mine. They seem 
indestructible, are far more responsive than the Special 20, and have 
great sounding chords.

Likewise, the Suzuki Manji, relatively new on the scene, in the same 
price range as the Session Steel and the Crossover, is worth a look.

More broadly, for those playing mid priced instruments (Lee Oskars, 
Special 20s etc), 2013 might be a good time to explore the higher end of 
the market. The harmonica companies have put themselves out to provide 
these high end models. They are better than their mid priced 
counterparts. Much better. They should be in our cases.

We all want to improve. Getting better harmonicas is the best, easiest 
and fastest tip I can give. You'll immediately sound better, play 
faster, cleaner, louder etc. Etc...

Tony Eyers
Australia
www.HarmonicaAcademy.com
...everyone plays