Skip to main content
Blues Harmonica logo

User Account

Username:*
Password:*
Forgot Your Password?

Visitor Menu

  • Sign Up
  • Sample Lesson #1
  • Sample Lesson #2
  • Student Recordings
  • Forums
Forums :: Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Crossover v Thunderbird

5 replies [Last post]
Tue, 05/31/2022 - 05:28
inky
inky's picture
Offline
Joined: 02/18/2021

Hi,

 

I currently have a mix of marine band and Special 20's. Now I am looking to go to the next level but am confused about the options.

I see the prices of the Thunderbird are more than the Crossover.  What are the advantages of the Crossover over the Thunderbird and vice versa. Should I be looking at each or staying with the Marineband?

 

Thanks

inky

 

Top
Tue, 05/31/2022 - 17:53
#1
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
Offline
Expert
Joined: 02/07/2010
Good to hear from you Inky!

Good to hear from you Inky! Both the Hohner 1896 Marine Band and Special 20 models are wonderful instruments. 

The decision to purchase the Hohner Thunderbird model (avail in LowF, LowE, LowEb, Low D, LowC, LowBb, LowA, LowG and LowF#) or it's cousin, the Hohner Rocket Low should be based on your desire to expand your sound into the lower octave. It would be akin to you choosing to play either the Bass in your band, or the Guitar. 

The low tuned harmonicas sound terrific for the sweet chords heard in the chugging style of harmonica playing. As a single note instrument, bending can be very challenging for the beginner and intermediate harmonica player. If you fall into this category, I would recommend holding off until you perfect your bending techniques.

If your just curious and want to increase your inventory of Diatonic harmonicas, both the Hohner Thunderbird and Rocket Low would be a good investment.

Due to the vented cover plates, sonically speaking, the Hohner Crossover harmonica would be identical to that of the Hohner Marine Band 1896. The reeds are EXACTLY the same on your Special 20, but due to the "non-vented" cover plates and composite ABS combs, your Special 20 will feel and voice differently.

Did you view the HARPSMITH Bench episode 5, "the Big Cover Up"? If not, I believe this would be the easiest and most economical way to experiment with different harmonica voicings.

https://www.bluesharmonica.com/harpsmith_bench

Let us know what you decided to do Inky

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

 

Top
Tue, 05/31/2022 - 17:57
#2
inky
inky's picture
Offline
Joined: 02/18/2021
Crossover

Thank you Kinya,

That was really helpful and helps me towards focusing on the Rocket. With a Low F, probably for the music, I play. , Where would you place the Crossover in comparison?

 

Thanks

Inky

Top
Tue, 05/31/2022 - 18:10
#3
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
Offline
Expert
Joined: 02/07/2010
Hi Inky, 80% of my stage case

Hi Inky, 80% of my stage case harmonicas are Hohner Rocket and Special 20, so yes--I am partial to those models. 

Never hearing you play, it is difficult to recommend the best instrument for your playing style. In general, if you prefer amplified harmonica playing, I would recommend the Special 20--because of the non-vented cover plates, you won't have to work so hard to get that BIG Fat sound! On the flip side, if most of your playing is acoustic, then I would strongly recommend the Hohner Rocket... the comb chambers are larger and more comfortable than the Special 20 for increased volume (if that is your thing;o)

Simply put, the Hohner Crossover is a comfortable upgrade to your current Marine Band 1896, but again sonically, will sound exactly like your 1896.

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

Top
Wed, 06/01/2022 - 04:29
#4
inky
inky's picture
Offline
Joined: 02/18/2021
Many Thanks

Most appreciated as always, great feedback.

Thanks

Inky

Top
Wed, 06/01/2022 - 07:11
#5
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
Offline
Expert
Joined: 02/07/2010
The pleasure is ours ;o) Your

The pleasure is ours ;o)

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

Top

Sign me up!

The low monthly subscription of $16.95 gives you full access! We accept major credit cards and PayPal.

Subscribe

Free Sample Lessons

After watching the BluesHarmonica.com overview video, try one of the lessons below to experience a lesson at BluesHarmonica.com.

  • Tongue Blocking Study 2 – This study is for the newer player or the player new to tongue blocking
  • Bending Study 5 – This is for the advanced player looking to improve their bending skills

Contributors

  • Aki Kumar
  • Joe Tartaglia
  • Gary Smith
  • Mark Hummel
  • Joe Filisko

Site Links

  • About David Barrett
  • Accredited Instructors
  • Links
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us
Hohner
© 2009 - 2022 David Barrett and the Harmonica Masterclass Co. for Bluesharmonica.com