Re: [Harp-L] gapping of reeds on harp

[David Payne <dave@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

What is the specific issue that needs adjusting? 
If a gap is too low, it will feel tight when you play it. One the blow reeds, there will be compression, if it's really bad, you can hear the air leaking out because there is too much compression. Draw reeds will feel like your drinking soda through a coffee stirrer. 

Factory gaps are usually pretty good for most folks, except 6 and 7 blow and maybe 1 draw always seem to be a little too tight. If you are looking for a guide compared to reed thickness, 100 percent from hole 6 on down, this includes any weight that might be on the end of the reed. The higher ones can be tighter. There is a window of acceptable gap width, the draw reeds should be on the tight end of it and the blow reeds should be nearer the open end of that window.  
Reeds are put on by hand, although I think the MS Series was originally built by Fembots and I think that's what Joe was citing. Seydel attaches by hand. I think Hohner does. I know HH did. I think Suzukis are attached by Fembots, though, then tuned by sharks with frickin' laser beams attached to their heads.
 
 
David Payne
www.elkriverharmonicas.com


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________________________________
 From: John <johnatjumpjiveandswing@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx 
Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2012 1:52 PM
Subject: [Harp-L] gapping of reeds on harp
 
   Hi. I would appreciarte a little help. I am about to check the gapping on my harmonicas in an attempt to improve 
   their ease of playing, obviously not all my reeds may want adjusting, but as a rule of thumb for those that may want
   adjusting could somebody advise me as to how much gap am I looking for say as a percentage of the reed thickness
   to put me in a time saving exercise and save me a lot of cussing when I don't seem to be getting it close to
   acceptable.

                             thanking you in advance  --------- John Taylor