Bends on the low keys
Hello Kinya,
So I bought a marineband 364 in low D (what a cool harp) and I plan on modifying it eventually but for now I play it as is (ouch). So I've noticed I abosolutely cant bend 1 and 2 draw ( can get variation on pitch but not a new note). I can get all of the 3 draw bends and up. So I've been looking around about bending on low keys and some people say it can't be done whilst others say it can but depending on the key (like forget LLF but maybe a LF). So realistically speaking, a well tuned/customized harp, what should I expect bending wise for low keys ?
I've had ideas to force in some bends but I want to try the natural way first hihi ;P
Awesome, I'll keep that in mind.
I'm aware about gaskets but for now I wanted to stay clear of them. They're one more part to assemble/disassemble when cleaning my harps. Gaskets are also a wear and tear type item so I'm not too keen on keeping up with replacing them.
When I'm more confident about my work as a harpsmith I plan on trying them out to see exactly what kind of value they can bring to a well adjusted harp ;P.
I'm also very familiar with Brenden Power and his inventions haha ;P What a cool duder/interesting player. I'm planning on getting one or two lucky 13's in the near future haha.
I'm happy to hear I you've had success in making lowkeys more bendable. In the end if that's what it takes I'll go with a gasket (just need to test some theories first haha).
Thanks
Chris
Hi R3Dz, the Hohner 364 is definetly a beast of a harmonica and extremely difficult to bend the lower register.
Yes, to all the above; sizing the reed plate slots and lowering the gaps (especially the blow reeds) will increase the compression and allow you to eek out the bent note. The reeds are uber long and weighted. Learning to tune your mouth for the desired bent note requires study, practice and patience.
I just completed a in-depth report on Brendon Power's new Gasket-Valves https://www.bluesharmonica.com/power_gasket_valves . I believe this will increase the playability of the Hohner 364. I recommended emailing him to see if he will be making his Gasket-Valve product available for the Hohner 364. <bren@brendan-power.com>
Your Harpsmith, Kinya