Warming up a chromatic
Fri, 09/28/2018 - 10:34
Hi Winslow;
Do you generally warm up a chromatic prior to playing to avoid sticking valves? Also if I recall correcty, I read one of your posts where you stated that near the top of your mod list for a 270 Deluxe would be to seal the pearwood comb, however David has said having the raw pearwood comb has not been an issue for him nor his students. If down the road this would be something I'd want to do, can I do it myself, and what would I use, or is there someone whom I could send it to. Apparently there are no harmonica repair techs in my area, so I'm slowly learning techniques myself.
Thanks,
Greg
Many players do warm up their chromatics before playing, either by playing gently so that breath moisture and warmth allow the valves to settle and stop rattling, or by heating it under an arm or in a warming pad. I tend not to bother, but many find it helpful. YMMV.
I don't recall the remark about sealing a 270 Deluxe comb, and I agree that it's not generally necessary. At the same time, it couldn't hurt.
However, before sealing, I'd flat sand the comb on the top and bottom surfaces that contact the reedplates. I'd especially recommend this for nailed-together 270s when converting them to bolt construction. This can make a huge difference in airtightness.
I'd follow drilling for bolts (not needed on the Deluxe), then flat sanding, with sealing, to prevent any warpage that might occur from moisture.
How to seal a wood comb? The method I most often use is to hang it by a stiff wire that is passed through one of the cover bolt holes, and spray it lightly with acrylic from a spray can. To avoid drips, spray it lightly several times at whatever interval is indicated in the instructions.