Manji
Hi Kinya,
Do you know if the reed plates on Manji harmonicas are brass? Took one apart today and they look like steel. The reason I ask is because I would like to emboss the slots so that it plays better.
Thank you,
Taylor
Hi, Kinya.
I noticed that some squeaking/clicking on the upper reeds on my Turbo-Manji. Usually when I'm testing the reeds at home. Never on stage.Could this be due to the tightness of the reed slots? And is the open back of the turbolids a bad idea with Manji harmonicas.
Thanks!
Hmm ... squeaking is different than clicking.
SQUEAKING: is a phenomenom that occurs when we conjur up the "missing" note(s) with our diatonic harmonica bending techniques. If we do not properly "tune" our mouth to match the desired note, the sympathetic (opposing) reed will start to bend, but not complete the process--resulting in a squeal/squeak.
CLICKING: is the sound created when the reed swings in/out of the reed plate slot, and makes contact either with the edges (metal on metal) and/or debris (read: harmonicoccus).
As for the Turbo Lids (cover plates), I don't believe they are the cause of the annoying sound effects.
More on the Turbo Lids ...
Due to the unique shape of the Turbo Lids, numerous harmonica players I've spoken to over the years, found the shape of the lids to hamper their embouchure (yes, that includes me).
Specifically, the Turbo Lids forces the mouthpiece of your harmonica to enter your mouth paralell to the floor/ceiling--resulting in more effort for your tongue (read: bending, TB techniques, etc.). Factory cover plates enables the player to tilt the harmonica (about 35%) with the back crest of the cover plate level with the tip of your nose. This tilted embouchures, by design, places the harmonica deeper into the mouth, and closer to the tongue. With a little practice, you'll find your tone will fatten up, with less fatigue.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Thanks, Kinya.
I guess what I'm hearing is more properly called clicking. As it's a rhythmic noise when I blow on some of the upper register reeds: click, click, click, click.
Regarding the Turbolids, I have mixed feelings about them. I have noticed your point about embouchure not only in not being able to tilt the harmonica but even if you don't tilt, you can't as easily wrap your lips around the turbolid covers. For lip pursing they work incredibly well, though, with a more volume and a slightly brighter tone on the Special 20s.
Hi Taylor
You're good to go. Just be mindful that "less is more" with the Manji reed plates. Out of the box, the Manji reed plates slots are already cut to some of the closest tolerances in the business.
This means, even the slightest amount of harmonicoccus will cause the reed to click & clack, or not even play. Just ask Andy Just.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya