Makowski Gaskets
Hello Harp Techs, who among us does not wish to add more sand into our hourglass? We all seem to not have enough time. This is especially true, when it comes to working on our harmonicas.
Not satisfied with my new “off the shelf” Db Hohner Rocket (yeah I know, wierd key ;o), but with showtime looming, I decided to try out the new Makowski gaskets--which promised to increased playability of the diatonic harmonica, by decreasing air leakage between the reed plates and comb. Gaskets are available for most of the popular diatonic harmonicas, including: Hohner, Seydel, Suzuki and Lee Oskar harmonicas at [http://www.deesfti.com]
The results were good (not great like a customized harmonica), but definitely played better than out-of-the-box. Check it out:
Disassemble your harmonica. Keep track of the small machine screws!
Not wanting to lose the opportunity to gap my draw and blow reeds #1 ~#4 (#5~10 are usually fine), I quickly grabbed my Hohner reed wrench/plinking tool (or .005” ~ .007” feeler gauge/shim stock)--inserting the blade end into the space in between the free reed and reed plate to check the gap.This means the gap should match the thickness of the tool.
If the tool bumps into the edge of the free end of the reed, then you need to lift the reed slightly. To do this, use your fingernail underneath the reed slot to push the reed up slightly out of the reed plate slot, allowing the tool to slide under the reed. With the tool completely flat on the reed plate, start by carefully pushing the “blade” toward the rivet end--to about half the length of the reed. This will automatically raise the free end of the reed. Next, vibrate the reeds by “plinking” (flicking) the reed into the reed plate slot about six times--this will help settle the reed into it’s new position. Repeat this process for all reeds until you are satisfied.
WARNING: if there is too much slop in between the tool, reed and plate--then you have gone too far. No worries, simply push down the first 1/16” of the rivet end of the reed, until the desired gap has been set. Be patient, this usually takes practice.
Lay the gaskets onto the comb (match the slot sizes!)
Re-attach the reed plates over the gasketed comb.
Can’t remember what plate is the Draw or Blow--no worries, look for the threaded holes--this will ALWAYS be the draw reed plate. The draw reeds will also have the rivets facing away from the comb. The Blow reed plate will ALWAYS have the rivets facing towards the comb, and lined up parallel to the mouthpiece ;o)
Re-attach all the reed plate and cover plate machine screws. Be careful to apply even torque for all screws.
Showtime is approaching! Now go make beautiful music.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Super cool Jon. Your thoughts are ALWAYS welcome!
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
After reading this post I bought a gasket for my Bb Hohner Rocket. I played the harp with and without the gasket and before customization and after I customized it. I've tried some aftermarket custom Rocket combs and was underwhelmed. They had the same problem as the stock combs even though they're solid aluminum. Both options are leaky. After trying the gakets I must say there is an improvenent to the stock Rocket without mods. However after modifying my Bb it really came to life. From my perspective, to make a harp play better your goal is to setup the harp to respond to the lightest air pressure and a hard attack. The first step in achieving great response is making the harp air tight ie... reduce leakage. These gaskets do just that. Coupled with reed work, burnishing the slots, gapping and tuning, my Rocket really plays great.
Three things about the Rocket that makes it a great improvement over the Special 20 are the larger size holes, the back opened up and vented cover plates.
Sometimes knowing Kinya can be a problem. Seems like every time I talk to the guy I'm spending more money. I've now got an A and G Rocket to go along with my Bb. I'm sure there's a C and D just around the corner.
I'm not really convinced that usind gaskets on Marine Bands or Seydel 1847 harmonicas is the way to go. With harps that don't have a recessed comb I've found that sanding the comb and draw reed plate on a flat granite stone to be very effective. However the Special 20, Rocket and Seydel Session Steel will really benefit the use of a set of these gaskets.
"You just can't have too many harmonicas".
If I can help any of you harp players you can email me at: jonharl@mac.com