Crossover v Thunderbird
Hi,
I currently have a mix of marine band and Special 20's. Now I am looking to go to the next level but am confused about the options.
I see the prices of the Thunderbird are more than the Crossover. What are the advantages of the Crossover over the Thunderbird and vice versa. Should I be looking at each or staying with the Marineband?
Thanks
inky
Thank you Kinya,
That was really helpful and helps me towards focusing on the Rocket. With a Low F, probably for the music, I play. , Where would you place the Crossover in comparison?
Thanks
Inky
Hi Inky, 80% of my stage case harmonicas are Hohner Rocket and Special 20, so yes--I am partial to those models.
Never hearing you play, it is difficult to recommend the best instrument for your playing style. In general, if you prefer amplified harmonica playing, I would recommend the Special 20--because of the non-vented cover plates, you won't have to work so hard to get that BIG Fat sound! On the flip side, if most of your playing is acoustic, then I would strongly recommend the Hohner Rocket... the comb chambers are larger and more comfortable than the Special 20 for increased volume (if that is your thing;o)
Simply put, the Hohner Crossover is a comfortable upgrade to your current Marine Band 1896, but again sonically, will sound exactly like your 1896.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Most appreciated as always, great feedback.
Thanks
Inky
The pleasure is ours ;o)
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Good to hear from you Inky! Both the Hohner 1896 Marine Band and Special 20 models are wonderful instruments.
The decision to purchase the Hohner Thunderbird model (avail in LowF, LowE, LowEb, Low D, LowC, LowBb, LowA, LowG and LowF#) or it's cousin, the Hohner Rocket Low should be based on your desire to expand your sound into the lower octave. It would be akin to you choosing to play either the Bass in your band, or the Guitar.
The low tuned harmonicas sound terrific for the sweet chords heard in the chugging style of harmonica playing. As a single note instrument, bending can be very challenging for the beginner and intermediate harmonica player. If you fall into this category, I would recommend holding off until you perfect your bending techniques.
If your just curious and want to increase your inventory of Diatonic harmonicas, both the Hohner Thunderbird and Rocket Low would be a good investment.
Due to the vented cover plates, sonically speaking, the Hohner Crossover harmonica would be identical to that of the Hohner Marine Band 1896. The reeds are EXACTLY the same on your Special 20, but due to the "non-vented" cover plates and composite ABS combs, your Special 20 will feel and voice differently.
Did you view the HARPSMITH Bench episode 5, "the Big Cover Up"? If not, I believe this would be the easiest and most economical way to experiment with different harmonica voicings.
https://www.bluesharmonica.com/harpsmith_bench
Let us know what you decided to do Inky
Your Harpsmith, Kinya