Hohner Rocket to begin with ?
Good morning,
I'm a beginner and would like to buy an Harmonica in the key of A. I'd like a plastic comb and I'm reading that a Rocket might be "better" than a Special 20.
My question : Would the Rocket be a better harmonica to start practicing than a special 20 ?
Thank you
Before responding I pulled out an Eb Special 20 and a D Rocket Amp (same as Rocket except covers) just to check. Both harps are in my go-to set. I agree with John S that the ergonomics of the Rocket comb seem a tad more comfortable. The differences are subtle, e.g., slightly different hole shaping, and apparently more screws attaching the reedplates to the comb, for perhaps better airtightness. In some ways, with the Rocket, Hohner has created a Special 20 "Deluxe." Price-wise, the Rocket is about 18% higher in price, but both harps are good bargains (and both are good harps for learning - but you also won't "outgrow" either model). I'd say that the differences will make the Rocket worth spending a little more. Be sure to give us an update re which you choose, and your experience with your new harp, whichever it is.
I have a pretty full collection of Special 20s (Bb F C G D A E) and one Rocket (Low F). They are very similar. I think I read that the reed plates are identical. The Rocket feels nicer. If my Special 20 collection was lost or stolen, I'd replace them with Rockets.
Ok, I finally bought a Rocket in a Key of A that I'm playing since 2 weeks. Before I played a Special 20 in the Key of C for about a month.
As a complete beginner I feel the Rocket slightly easier to play because of the big holes I think.
Thank you all for your advices
It could be you are getting better. I think you will find the A harp a little easier due to the reed length. The Rocket is a great harp. Good luck.
I play both and they are both good but my preference is the Rocket. The one outstanding feature of the Rocket is the ergonomics.