Temperature for tuning
Tue, 04/06/2021 - 07:36
Hello Kinya
I'd like to do my first steps with tuning my harps. I did some tests in advanced with the app Cleartune. Because the harps were still assembled with the coverplates on, I set the reference frequence to 440Hz. On all harps I tested, were the root notes on 4 blow about 10-15% sharp. Is it, because the harps had the room temperature and not the "body" temperature?
In case of yes, do I have to preheat the reads to body temperature before tuning? Or are just all my harmonicas out of tune?
Many thanks in advanced,
Attila
Hi Attila, good to hear from you. @440Hz, most players will show +10cents (sharp) on their tuner--me included. My recommendation is to calibrate your ClearTune chromatic tuner to 442Hz. This will make tuning easier for you. The "Compromised Just" recipe that my customer's enjoy, is one that I had modified from the original recipe that Rick Epping taught me:
BLOW: 1/C=0c, 2/E=-10c, 3/G=+1c, 4/C=0c, 5/E=-10c, 6/G=+1c, 7/C=0c, 8/E=-10c, 9/G=+1c, 10/C=0c
DRAW: 1/D=+2c, 2/G=+1c, 3/B=-10c, 4/D=+2c, 5/F=-10c, 6/A=+3c, 7/B=+10c, 8/D=+2c, 9/F=-10c, 10/A=+3c
Before your begin your tuning session, please review:
https://www.bluesharmonica.com/harp_tech_studies_3
Your Harpsmith, Kinya