Airtight Cup - Part 2

If you're relatively new to the world of harmonica and you don't have a bullet mic yet try this with a glass, cup or tin that's around 2.5" in diameter (that's the common size of a bullet mic). Even for players that have a bullet this is a fun way to experiment with different tones.

If you fancy yourself a handy person purchase a Hi-Z lapel mic (small electret condenser mic) from your local Radio Shack (cheaper the better!), drill a hole in the bottom of that tin can or plastic cup, place the mic through the bottom so it's in the inside of the cup and use something like caulking to seal the mic into the cup (no air escapes). Now you have a super-cool reverberant mic!

Last Week's Tip: "The more airtight you can get your cup the bigger your sound when playing amplified (more muted, bassy, distorted, louder, etc.). Pic up your harp and mic and make your best, most airtight cup. Now drop the harp on your lap and place your lips where your harp was and blow... where air leaks is where sound is leaking. Work on closing those leaks and your amplified playing will move to the next level."