Problems with 3 & 4 Draw @ Manji LC
Hello Kinya,
I got myself a new Suzuki Manji LC some time ago. I'm quite happy with the warm tone, the fast response and nice bending qualities of the harp BUT the holes 3 & 4 Draw sound quite muted / muffled and much quieter than the other holes. I cleaned the harp already, tried different breathing techniques, lip pursing and tongue blocking - all without much effect. What else can I do ?
Thanks a lot and bests
Ralph
Hi Kinya,
thanks a lot for your informative answer! I watched the videos already first time (I'll surely watch them another couple of times) and think I'll do the "full service" on the Manji. 4 & 3 draw and their bends sure should sound nice and strong in my opinion, so I can only win ;-) .
A big, big, big Chapeau for your lessons and your friendly, calm and also a bit humorous way of explaining and demonstrating, Kinya! Being a teacher myself (fine arts), I highly appreciate good teaching!
Being not that bad with metalworking, I'm quite confident and sure let you know how it goes...
Thanks again and bests from South- Germany
Ralph
Thank you Ralph. Pros and Cons always welcome on the Forum.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Hi Ralph,
I had the pleasure of touring the Suzuki Musical Instrument factory in Hamamatsu, Japan--with Andy Just a few years ago. The craftsmanship built into all Suzuki musical instruments, including Hammond Organs, Melodians, and of course all things Harmonica--was phenomenal!
Andy Just endorses the Suzuki Manji harmonica; therefore, I had good exposure to the "goods under the hood". Although the Manji reed slot (plate) tolerances are best of class, I found that burnishing (aka embossing, sizing, etc.) the slots a little bit more--including the tip of ths slot, along with dropping the reed zero point (fixed reed end) will brighten the voicing of the harmonica.
Warning: this work requires a Jeweler's touch. Please review the Harp Tech Series found at this site before attempting this technique. At the top of your screen, select EQUIPMENT, scroll down to HARMONICA, then view the Harp Tech Series to coach you through the learning process.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya