Why does the 5 blow/draw have the same pitch?
I was getting ready to do the "P" word...practice...when I noticed my A harp 5B/D had the same pitch. It was ok yesterday so I'm kind of befuddled as to what the problem is...The pitch is almost perfect to the point I thought only the blow reed was working. So I took off the cover plates and inspected the draw reed....looks ok...and is vibrating ok...I decided to file a bit off the end...hoping to raise the pitch...hmmm...whoa Nelly...What if it's the blow hole that has the problem and not the draw...OK…let me fire-up HarpNinja and let the App tell me so there’s no guessing on my part.Yep, the 5D hole is the problem. In fact it’s better tuned to C# that the 5B…according to HarpNinja…but the 5D needs to be a ½ step higher (D) than the 5B C#.So before I go off and try to “fix” this problem, i.e, order a new A harp, is this something that …well just happens or is part of harmonica life? Anyone...Thanks,Payne
Brain,
Thanks for your reply. The harp is a Hohner SP20 and I've had it since Dec 2013 and typically play everyday for about an hour ;) or so. I tried to adjust the reed but it didn't help so I figure it time for a replacement harp or new reed plate. I'll lookup Kinya and see if I can get replacement plates etc...
In the meantime, I bough a new replacement harp, a Suzuk BluesMaster. I figured I have an A, C, G SP20, might be a good time to see what else is out there...
Thanks again,
payne
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Regarding my 5 draw issue, I found this link in the forum: http://www.bluesharmonica.com/5_draw_reed_fractures
Payne
How old is your harp and what brand and model? I have two damaged SP20s. I blew out a 5 draw on one and the 4 draw on the other has gone flat. I've had them for a while and they got a lot of use. I am not surprised you have the same issue. I did replace both harps with new ones however the reed plates can be replaced easily. I will buy new plates to swap out the damaged reed ones. Kinya Pollard got me the US rep contact for Hohner so I can order new plates. You may want to check out the equipment section on this site for reed repair. Also you may want to post this on Kinya's harp tech forum on this site. He can certainly help you out better than I can.
Eventual reed damage is expected, it really depends on how long and how hard you play. I bought a set of Seydels with stainless steel reeds for improved longevity, but it is also a matter of taste.
Brian