Process and Procedure
Hi Kinya,
I have a couple of questions after reviewing the reed gap sizing and slot sizing materials. I may well have missed the info so for that I apologize in advance.
1. Is there a definitive sequence to top level tuning i.e. the process to the tuning, gap and slot sizing i.e. would I set slots first then gap sizing later ?
2. I assume your feeler gauges #2 = 0.002 inches, correct?
3. Some of the pdf material is no longer available e.g. the UTS tool from Seydel. Is that because there is better out there or shall I just request the Seydel kit?
4. I should imagine the Stainless Steel reed material would hold its stiffness longer, correct?
5. Your chart on reed gap calibrations i.e. from o.010 on hole 1 to 0.004 on hole 10 . Is this a good gap sizing to start i.e. follow the chart and then modify to my personal playing style? Or was those gap sizes serving as only an example?
By the way, great Videos, thoroughly enjoying it. How does one become a Harpsmith? Is this a trade certification process? Great work, Thank you.
Inky
Hello Inky, good to hear from you.
Q1. Is there a definitive sequence to top level tuning i.e. the process to the tuning, gap and slot sizing i.e. would I set slots first then gap sizing later?
A1: Yes. Before tuning, I prefer to complete (a)reed slot sizing, (b)reed chamfering, then (c)profile the reeds (including Zero Point and Gapping),
2. I assume your feeler gauges #2 = 0.002 inches, correct?
A2: Yes, .002” (or .0508mm)
3. Some of the pdf material is no longer available e.g. the UTS tool from Seydel. Is that because there is better out there or shall I just request the Seydel kit?
A3: Dick Sjoberg sold his design of the original UST (Ultimate Sizing Tool) to Seydel. The sizing portion of the new version should work for you. Also check out
- Richard Sleigh https://hotrodharmonicas.myshopify.com/collections/tools
- Andrew Zajac https://harp.andrewzajac.ca/Tools
4. I should imagine the Stainless Steel reed material would hold its stiffness longer, correct?
A4: Yes, that is the thinking behind the Seydel harmonica product line
5. Your chart on reed gap calibrations i.e. from o.010 on hole 1 to 0.004 on hole 10 . Is this a good gap sizing to start i.e. follow the chart and then modify to my personal playing style? Or was those gap sizes serving as only an example?
A5: Years I ago I created that handout as a general guideline. Ultimately, gapping will always be calibrated to the person’s playing style. I remember Howard Levy telling our class, that even his Filisko harmonicas ultimately required tweaking by him for ultimate perfection. My last set of Marine Band 1896 harmonicas that I built and shipped out this morning were set to the following:
- .004” for Reeds #1, #2, #3, #4
- .003” for Reeds #5, #6 (for normal playing)
- .002” for Reeds #5, #6 (for OB type of playing)
- .002” for Reeds #7, #8, #9, #10
HARPSMITH is a brand that I developed and service marked with the USPO. Hohner has a harmonica technician certification process—facilitated by Joe Filisko. My memory is telling; however, that they have filled their spots for North America. Similar to David’s LOA program, my private students would have to reach milestones of achievements before receiving their certification from the HARPSMITH Centre.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Thanks as always Kinya
My Pleasure
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
"Similar to David’s LOA program, my private students would have to reach milestones of achievements before receiving their certification from the HARPSMITH Centre. "
How might one go about entering into your certification program?
Howdy Wooze, the first step would be to have David contact me with your contact information.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Hello Harp Techs, I noticed my March 28, 2022 was a little fuzzy regarding Blow/Draw selection. To clarify, the chart applied to both the Blow and Draw reeds.
In addition, be mindful of Blow/Draw reeds *7. This is a natural 1/2 step, and therefore, you will not be able to Blow Bend. My recommendation would be to gap those reeds at .003". Many players had commented to me that their Draw 7 felt "muffled". See if that resolves the issue.
- .004” for Reeds #1, #2, #3, #4
- .003” for Reeds #5, #6, *7 (for normal playing)
- .002” for Reeds #5, #6 (for OB type of playing)
- .002” for Reeds #7, #8, #9, #10
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
My 4 question sounds like I may be associated with Seydel. I am a 71-year-old retiree in Ontario, Canada, and 'dabbling" with Harmonicas as one of my retirement hobbies.
Enjoy
Inky