Backside Tuning
Is there any downside from tuning the bottom of the blow reeds like when you use a draw scraper through the hole or an Einstien tuning table. Obviously it's hard to look at the reeds like that but if you're having reed problems you probably wouldn't tune like that anyway.
2nd question and an observation. I bought several cheap MB 1896 <$5 to practice with a Sleigh Burnishing tool. I've noticed all had a 3 draw problem most had a 2 draw problem some 1&4 draw problems. All had gap problems most too wide. Differnt shapes and curves.
My question... What causes that? Overblowing the harp? As in too much wind, not a blues technique.
Thanks.....Mike
A1.a: ;) True. Second position has an emphisis on low draws. In this case, a G harp played with the band in D.
Q1 follow up: So the support from an Einstien tuner woud help curb the reed distortion. Tech study 3 is what created the questions. :)
thanks.......Mike
Hello Mike, Yes a device such as the Einstien tuner could mitigate distorting your original gap setting.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Hi Mike, good to hear from you
Q1: Is there any downside from tuning the bottom of the blow reeds like when you use a draw scraper through the hole or an Einstien tuning table. Obviously it's hard to look at the reeds like that but if you're having reed problems you probably wouldn't tune like that anyway.
A1: This is a wonderful "on the fly" technique that I employ frequently. The only downside--if you use the "lift out of the slot" technique, is that it will distort your gap setting for that reed. You will have to bounce the reed down into the slot a few times to reset your desired gap. I recommend you review Harp Tech Study #3. At the top header of this site, select EQUIPMENT, then scroll to the bottom sub-header, HARMONICAS, and select Harp Tech Study 3 - Tuning
Q2: I bought several cheap MB 1896 <$5 to practice with a Sleigh Burnishing tool. I've noticed all had a 3 draw problem most had a 2 draw problem some 1&4 draw problems. All had gap problems most too wide. Differnt shapes and curves. My question... What causes that? Overblowing the harp? As in too much wind, not a blues technique.
A1: Correct--excessive pressure (volume of air) will distort/break most reeds. Based on the forensic evidence, the previous owner was a 2nd position player ... True or False; what do you think Detective Mike?
Your Harpsmith, Kinya