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Out of tune Harp?

3 replies [Last post]
Sat, 02/25/2017 - 00:21
John S
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Joined: 01/03/2017

I have noticed that when I test my A harp (Special 20) on the HarpNinja I see that a couple of the notes 6 and 7 blow record yellow rather than green and some are marginally green. My other two harps C and G display green for all notes. I have ordered new plates but wanted to know if this is a problem with my A harp or with intolerances. Should I replace the plates? I have given the A harp a clean and same result.

Appreciate any suggestions.

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Fri, 03/24/2017 - 10:51
#1
Expert Winslow Yerxa
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Joined: 01/15/2010
Use a more precise tuner

Yellow and green colors indicate whatever parameters the program designer decided were important. If the app doesn't give you the parameters below, then get a tuning app that will:

1) Allow you to set the reference frequency used for testing. A440 (middle A vibrating 440 times per second) is seldom the real basis for tuning harmonicas.

  • In the factory, despite what may be stamped on the covers; pitch is usually higher, anywhere from 442 to 448.
  • You can determine this by playing all of the notes into the tuner. If they all come up sharp to A440, then you should raise the reference frequency until you find something that works for the majority of the notes.
  • You may want to change the reference frequency to suit your ear and playing style. I find that A442 suits me, for instance, while a heavy player like Stevie Wonder tunes to A446, which for my playing style is uncomfortably sharp.

2) Let you see how many cents sharp or flat a reed may be to its value onces the reference frequency is set.

  • Tuning to equal temperament (not varying the notes from the indicated value) can make chords sound harsh.
  • Tuning to other temperaments, such as just intonation, can make chords sound sweet but can put single notes out of tune with other instruments.
  • Tuning to other temperaments may require raising or lowering certain notes by a certain number of cents.

Rather than spend money on new plates, learn to to tune reeds. It takes a little patience but is well worth it. In five minutes you could have those notes sounding right. Check out Kinya's section for more on tuning.

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Sat, 02/25/2017 - 19:18
#2
John S
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Many thanks

I will follow your suggestions. All part of the learning experience.

ps

Hey Winslow how easy was that with the satisfaction of having donre it.

Many thanks

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Tue, 03/21/2017 - 18:39
#3
Harp Tech Kinya...
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Joined: 02/07/2010
Hello John -- good to hear

Hello John -- good to hear from you, and thank you Winslow!

In depth tuning lessons are available here at bluesharmonica.com:

  1. At the top of your screen, select EQUIPMENT
  2. From this page, scroll all the way to the bottom section, titled HARMONICAS
  3. Select HARP TECH STUDIES #3 (Tuning)

Of course, you can search many postings about tuning your harmonica, by entering TUNING into the Forum Search Box.

Don't hesitate to write me regarding your trials and tribulations!

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

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