Hohner's Updates to the Marine Band line (Part 1)

Just had a look at the newest Hohner harmonica catalog. In it I noticed a lot of changes. Notable ones include updates to the original Marine Band, Marine Band Deluxe, the low Crossovers are now called "Tunderbird" (thanks to Joe Filisko and Little Walter), and changes to the Special 20. I have a couple of concerns, both good and bad, for all of these changes.

First, the original Marine Band harmonicas are now called the "Marine Band 1896 Classic" I could be wrong, but I don't believe the "Classic" designation was present before. Updates to the harmonica itself include a "newly designed triple-coated pear wood comb". So it appears the comb is sealed (at least on the visible edges). In my opinion, the recent Marine Band harmonicas are very difficult to play. Perhaps an improved comb may make a difference in high end playing and bending response. I suspect the real issue is with the reedplates however. As Joe Filisko has said, the marine bands most of the people have today are a far cry from what they once were. To quote Joe, "...something happened at Hohner making all the Marine Bands coming out almost unplayable". This is one of the big reasons his customization business took off. Personally, I had a hard time finding a good Marine Band, very inconsistent production.

Next, the Marine Band Deluxe is getting some updates that look significant. I've been a fan of the Deluxe since I got one a while back. It's a very responsive and loud harmonica at a reasonable price. It gives that great classic sound without the bank busting that a true customization could thrust upon poor guys like me. The highs play well and the bends are good. To quote from the catalog, here are some of the changes:

• New improved cover design gives greater volume and stability while preventing reed rattle.

• New reed profiles ensure longer reed life and reduce breakage.

• The entire pearwood comb is triple-laquered, dramatically minimizing swelling and ensuring greater volume and faster response.

• Sturdy neoprene zipper case allows moisture to evaporate while keeping dust out. Practical elasticated loop permits case to be worn on belt.

• All parts available as spares.

The first thing I noticed is that the design on the coverplate has gotten some changes. It looks good but a bit odd since I've gotten used to mine. Don't know if the new reed profiles mean they are new to Hohner or just an improvement from the original Marine Band, but it could be interesting. Zipper case with an "elasticated loop" sounds very cool. First time I ever saw something like that was watching John Popper perform with harmonicas in a belt holster. I thought it was very cool then, like he was some kind of musical soldier (perhaps taking the term Marine Band a bit TOO seriously?), and would love to see that in action. I left the others for last for a good reason. Seems that they are the most significant improvements. "The entire pearwood comb is triple-laquered". I believe that "entire" is the key word. The previous ones only coated the visible edges still making the comb vulnerable to swelling. Finally, the cover is redesigned to prevent reed rattle. My biggest complaint with the Deluxe I have is that the one draw rattles on the cover plate when played hard. It can be avoided but you have to account for it in your playing which naturally changes your playing style and freedom.

Exciting stuff for sure! This post is looking very long, and I know you would rather be playing your harp so I'll save other comments for a future post. Let me know if you want to hear more of my thoughts on the new catalog and post any comments about the apparent changes to the Marine Band and Marine Band Deluxe here. Perhaps someone with inside information can shed some light on these models too. Thanks for the great site and inspiration!