[Harp-L] XB-40

[Rick Epping]

Hi Dee,

I established the tuning values of the X reeds to permit easy bending to
the desired note, which meant that with effort the reeds could be bent a
little more than the desired note.  Naturally, these values were
subjective, depending on how easy I felt the bend was, as well as on how
well the instrument was set up. Here's a link to the tuning chart I gave to
the factory:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B56Y28n7JwtSNVpVSzBTUG93OEk/view?usp=sharing

The chart is in German but you should be able to make it out.  The five
columns in the charts are:
1. Hole number
2. Top plate, inside, with reed offset
3. Top plate, outside, without reed offset (X reed)
4. Bottom plate, inside, without reed offset (X reed)
5. Bottom plate, outside, with reed offset

To avoid confusion, I wrote Bb in the English manner: Bb, and B-natural in
the German manner: H.

The X reeds can be retuned to change the depth of the bent notes, either
fine tuning the established bend or changing the bent note altogether.  I
wouldn't suggest retuning the X reeds until the harmonica is properly set
up and assembled, particularly the mouthpiece.  Then simply play the bent
note and adjust the tuning of the X reed as necessary.

Best,
Rick


On Wed, Sep 27, 2017 at 1:55 PM, <flyingv8 at xxxxx> wrote:

> Thank you for that info Rick! Have you ever tuned the X reeds lower to
> facilitate bending? What is your experience with that?
> Regards,
> Dee
> ---- Rick Epping <rickepping at xxxxx> wrote:
> > Hi Robert,
> >
> > If both blow 2 and blow 3 won't bend at all but all other holes are fine,
> > it could be a coincidental problem with either their valves or their
> > complementary reeds.  If they will bend down a little but not a whole
> step,
> > I would check the seal between the comb and mouthpiece. Any air leakage
> > from there can seriously compromise bending.  A document I put together
> > describing the procedure I follow to service XB-40s can be accessed here:
> > https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B56Y28n7JwtSeGxCMFh1WERvZVk/
> view?usp=sharing
> >
> > Best regards,
> > Rick
>
>
>