"Tuning" is a term that refers to the raising or lowering of the pitch of an individual reed. This may be done if a reed appears to be flat or sharp, but can also be done to create alternate tuned harmonicas that contain the collection of notes (scale) that best suits your playing style.
- Should I bother to "tune" my harmonicas?- If you don't feel there is a problem or hear a note that seems out-of-tune, don't do it. Remember, "If it works, don't fix it".
- How long should a harmonica typically last before one of the reeds (notes) goes "bad" (i. e. flat)?- Harmonicas can last anywhere from 2 weeks to a year or longer depending on how much it gets used, how hard it's being played, how correctly it's being played, and the luck of the draw (sometimes we get a good one, sometimes not). On the average, most people will get 3-9 months out of their harmonica before notes go "flat" or become unplayable.
- When is the best time to tune my harmonicas?- The best time to "tune" is when a harmonica is brand new (which also applies to gapping it). If you wait until it is nearly worn out, the act of tuning or trying to gap a reed could ruin it. Brass reeds will weaken and fatigue over time, it is best to make adjustments when they are brand new and strong. Old weak reeds will ultimately develope microscopic cracks and lose their pitch (they go flat). With old fatigued reeds, attempts to make tuning adjustments may cause them to break off entirely.
- How to tune- Use the chart below for tips and illustrations on how and where to scrape or file on the reed to change the pitch.
- Support the reed while tuning- Slide a very thin piece of metal underneath the reed to support it before applying the pressure of scraping or filing. Anything thin enough to slide under the reed will work. A tool specially for this task is included the the Lee Oskar Repair & Maintenance Kit.
- To raise the pitch of a reed- Scrape or file near the vibrating end of the reed (not the rivet end). Be sure to avoid filing or scraping the edges or corners of the reed which can cause burrs to develope that may add a "buzzing" sound when played.
- To lower the pitch of a reed- Scrape or file near the rivet end of the reed (not the vibrating end). Be sure to avoid filing or scraping the edges or corners of the reed which can cause burrs to develope that may add a "buzzing" sound when played.
- How much to remove?- Start very slowly so as to not over do the tuning. Check with an electronic tuning device frequently to assure the intended pitch.
- Repair & Maintenance Kit- Detailed instructions and the tools necessary for most repairs including "tuning" come complete in the Lee Oskar Repair & Maintenance Kit. This repair kit is useful for all makes of harmonicas. The chart below is a reprint of a portion of the manual that comes with the Lee Oskar Repair & Maintenance Kit and is supplied courtesy of Lee Oskar Enterprises.
- Suggested additional tools- Aside from the "Repair & Maintenance Kit" mentioned above which includes the chisels and files needed for tuning, you may also need an electronic tuning device. If you own and work on harmonicas other than the Lee Oskars like the Hohners, you will also need to pickup a small set of flat head screw drivers.
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