Chromatic Key
Thu, 04/09/2026 - 03:59
Hi,
For Christmas I got a second Chromatic (Sony SCX-64), this means that I have two in the key of C, so, am thinking of replacing the reed plates in my Hohner CX-12, the question is, which key next?
Cheers,
Graham
Tue, 04/14/2026 - 04:30
#2
Thanks for responding.
Do you know if this Low F option still exists? Even on the Hohner website, the only low option they have is a LC-tenor.
Graham,
There are real advantages to just sticking with C's, and learning to play blues in any and all keys on them. E.g., you only have to carry one chromatic in your bag. "Big Harp George" Bisharat, Mark Hummel, and Dennis Gruenling play differenent keys on C chromatics. Over the years I've gotten fairly good at 2nd position (e.g., G on the C) and 12th (F on the C), but then, those keys involve only one sharp or one flat in the key signature. Using just the C is also a good way to learn to read music.
But that said, I also have a Bb and low F. And generally play them in 3rd position. Just 'cause it's easy and intuitive.
So if you're set on another key, the Low F CX-12 conversion will give you a nice set of lower notes (more like the SCX 64's low end) and give you a great sound in 3rd position on blues in G.
Enjoy and let us all know what you end up doing.
Ukulele Rob plays Hohner™ harmonicas customized by Kinya Pollard, The HarpSmith™