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Forums :: Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Modding Golde Melody Cover Plates

2 replies [Last post]
Fri, 05/07/2010 - 09:50
harpninjamike
harpninjamike's picture
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Joined: 05/04/2010

Any tips on cleanly opening the covers and adding side vents a la the cover of Carlos Del Junco's Blues Mongrel? Thanks!

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Fri, 05/07/2010 - 20:14
#1
jjudson
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Joined: 12/23/2009
Nine Below Zero

I love his one-man-band rendition of Nine Below Zero - especially the bass riff:

http://popup.lala.com/popup/2017894155569856774

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Sun, 05/09/2010 - 09:24
#2
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
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Joined: 02/07/2010
Venting Golden Melody Cover Plates

Hey Mike,

Venting GM cover plates is accomplished using a variety of different shaped jewelers files. Check out MicroMark:
http://www.micromark.com/5-PIECE-CARBIDE-NEEDLE-FILE-SET-FINE-120-GRIT,7...
I particularly enjoy working with this set.

Disassemble your cover plates, then use tape (painters blue tape works great) to "clamp" down the upside down CPs on top of a cutting board.

With the edges facing out towards you, begin shaping the vent with your files. Keep your file parallel to the cutting board to avoid cutting into the inside of your CPs. Temporarily re-attach the CP onto your harmonica to check its form. When you reached the desired opening dimensions, move on to the other CPs.

“Play the notes people want to hear © 2008

Kinya Pollard
The Harpsmith

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