Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Hi Kinya,
What can you recommend to remove tarnish from coverplates that is non-toxic. I've used Semichrome polish in the past, but I didn't think it worked great and I'd like to find something non-toxic.

I have a Dremel I coul duse for polishing and buffing although I have never tried that.

Thanks, Pete

Hello Harp-Techs,
If you had an opportunity to spend the day at my HARPSMITH shop, what would that day look like?

“Play the notes people want to hear” © 2008

Kinya Pollard
The Harpsmith

Hello All,
I was not able to attend this year's SPAH convention. For those of you who did, and from a Harp-Tech's perspective, were there new innovations, harmonica models, tools, harp gear that you would like to share with our membership? Did you see something that piqued your curiosity, but require more information? Maybe I can make some calls to my industry contacts and get more intel for you.

~ Kinya

Calling all "Bends" harmonica players,
As some of you may know, I am preparing an article for MelBay's Harmonica Session on Bends Harmonica Company. I wanted to include your thoughts and impressions of the Bends Harmonica(s) you might own, or at least test drove.

"Come one, come all" don't be shy ...
Kinya

I have changed reed plates many times in Lee Oskar diatonics, but have never tackled a chromatic. Any tips for replacing them in an F Hering chromatic? The harp plays ok , but it has a very noticeable "rattle" at very low volume. This is the case all the way up the harp on blows and draws. I am assuming it is the reed plates, but could it be something else? I am just not that familiar with chromatics and the fact that it is not isolated to a certain hole makes me wonder about it being the reed plates.

I have a Hering Special 48 B flat that the slide is stuck on. What would the likely issue be, and how would you approach the critter. I have had the same issue with a Hohner 270 and it appeared to be just foreign material, and moisture combination. I also have a Hering Velvet Voice F that has a rattle at times. Any suggestion? I have had good luck replacing reed plates in Lee Oskar diatonics, but have never tackled a chromatic.
I don't want to ruin the Herings since they are not cheap to replace and they are special to me because they were a given to me by Rod Piazza.

Hi Kinya,

Which is the recommended tools package at micro-mark for taking care of your harp? What's the link to your article on this at Harmonica Sessions?

Thanks,

Anne Marie

Hi!!!
Can i change the tune of a harmonica in E to F ?
thanks,

Best Regards
Marko

Hello Harmonicats,
I am in the process of setting up an interview with Bends Harmonica endorsee, Mr. Gary Smith. Are there any particular questions or comments you may have regarding Bends Harmonica that you would like our membership to read about?

“Play the notes that people want to hear” © 2008

Kinya Pollard
The Harpsmith

I have noticed that some of my harps have an odd tin taste/feeling when I place my tongue on them. Like when you were a kid and placed your tongue on a 9volt battery.

Do you know how to get rid of it?