Playability?
Is a Hohner Crossover easier to play than an Special 20, or does it just sound better?? From a new player perspective. Also, plastic sound holes vs timber/bamboo, is this just a personal preference?
My personal preference is Special 20.
That is because it's got smooth edges, and it is much easier on lips. Especially for beginner player like me, where I tend to play hard and stiff.
The other thing is I dislike the taste brass plates. I feel it strongly on exposed reed plate designs like Marine Band. Plastic does not have any taste, so Special 20 again for me.
Sharon Barrett (beginner) preferred customized Special 20 to Crossover. Joe Filisko also said that he prefers Special 20 for "woodshedding" (training) and Marine Band for performing. Tom Ball mentioned SP20 does not catch his facial hair :)
The rest of the guys David interviewed prefer Marine Bands in one form or another.
Thanks for the replies...
Perhaps trial and error of each is the best method, it seems it may just be a totally personal preference. My main thrust was is an expensive harp easier to play than a much cheaper one. Im playing Sukuki Bluesmaster`s currently as i got for a great price, i think they might be similar to the Special 20`s. Another Special 20 re visit is a must i believe.
It's personal preference.
I don't find much difference in playability between a Special 20 and a Crossover. That said, I prefer not having a layer of material such as the mouthpiece-like covering on the Special 20 between me and the holes. Having grown up with the Marine Band, I prefer that interface.
But that's me.
Ask on a discussion forum a question like "What's the best harmonica?" and just watch all the personal preferences being represented as the ultimate truth. Everyone has a unique set of experiences and preferences, and you will find yours.
The debate over whether comb materials (wood, plastic, metal) make a difference in sound is never ending. Plastic and metal are more stable than woods that can swell/shrink/warp/crack with moisture or lack of it, but a well sealed comb tends not to have those problems. Bamboo doesn't have those problem, either.