Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Hello Harp Techs, are you tired of losing those pesky little screws? 

Why it Matters | Probably the top complaint I hear from Harp Techs is the frustration of having small “bits and pieces” slip through their fingers, bounce off the hard work surface, then disappear into the darkness. What an amazing waste of time! continue reading...

I was given A Hohner 64 Chromatica. The comb is a plastic, maybe bakelite. The comb is broken where the screw holding the slide enters the trapped nut (both sides) The reed plates are attached to the comb with nails that go through both reed plates. I want to change the comb. How do I get those nails out without ruining the reed plates? How do I attach the reed plates to the new plastic comb?

Happy Thanksgiving Kinya. I would like to hear your thoughts on comparing the use of "pliers/toothpick" technique compared to machinist vise in setting zero point and is it worth setting zero point on reeds 7-10.  Mic 

 In section 4b you showed a detailed working chart i.e. the intonation tuning chart, that can be derived for tuning, low keys, and experimentation. I wondered if you had that chart handy by any chance. If not handy don't worry, I can always construct in excel. I do realize you have the summary in 3b as a handout but I would like the working chart. Again, if not dont worry I can construct my own. 

Thank you

Hello Harp Techs, have you all discovered the benefits of good REED GAPPING to enhance your harmonica player’s experience? 

Why it Matters

“Eyeballing” (guessing) reed gap tolerances is OK, but using precision tools and templates will guarantee more consistent and AMAZING results!

Try this:  continue reading...

Hey Kinya,

Just wanted to let you know that I am really enjoying your Marine Band University series.  I am taking what I have learned in this series. and attempting to upgrade a twelve hole Marine Band that I purchased many years ago.

Thanks so much for posting all this great information.  I look forward to any more segments you may post in the future.

Homer.

Hello Harp Techs

For us 2nd Position harmonica players, the #4 BLOW and DRAW reeds are super important.

WHY IT MATTERS

• The #4 BLOW (and one octave lower; #1 Blow) is the most important note of the IV Chord

• The #4 DRAW (and one octave lower; #1 Draw) is the most important note of the V Chord continue reading...

Hey Kinya,

I'm seriously considering trying to rig up a mechanical system to get absolutely consistent airflow results for my tuning table.

I'm wondering if you have done such a thing or if you just use the bellows or the tube?

Obviously it's going to require a vacuum pump of some kind and some valves.

Anybody set up a rig like this? Got any specs?

Thanks,

TomE

Welcome back Students, during Summer Break I'm certain all of you had an opportunity to work on (and perfect) your Lesson One techniques. Here for Lesson Two, you will learn how to:

1. Flatten the Draw Reed plate
2. Size the reed plate slots
3. Set the "Zero Point" 
4. Profile the Reed

https://www.bluesharmonica.com/harpsmith_bench

Class is back in session!

Your Headmaster, Kinya

Hi Kinya.

Now that I've got post-orthodontic retainers that I'd like to keep from getting too cruddy, I'm getting serious about an ultrasonic cleaner that I can use for them, as well as for my harps.

I've been happy with the BugBlaster I bought from James at TurboHarp, and he used to have an ultrasonic cleaner avaiable, but I get the impression that he's experienced supply-chain issues. continue reading...