Posted by Bill (209.241.94.146) on September 21, 2000 at 23:01:19:
In Reply to: question posted by Dana Denney on September 21, 2000 at 16:10:43:
: I have several honer harmonicas (marine band and blues harps) My question is: why do I get dead spots on the harp? mostly at the higher notes but sometimes a certain note will consistently freeze lower as well. Do i need to invest in better harps, if so what kind?
: thanks Dana
Like Dave mentions, gunk on the reed could be the cause. You can take your harmonica and clean the reeds by running warm water on them. Do this gently being careful not to jar the reeds. Shake the reed plates dry and / or gently pat with a towel and put your harmonica back together.
Another cause could be you blowing or drawing technique. It's not unusual for this to occur on the lower harps (G, A) for beginners especially. Keep at it, practice will over come these problems.
Neither the Marine Band or Blues harp are very airtight. I like the Special 20, it has the tone of the Marine Band and the durability of a Lee Oskar, Pro Harp, Cross Harp, Lee Oskar are all good too.
Bill