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Forums :: Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Rocket/Special20 Reed Plates

3 replies [Last post]
Sat, 11/01/2014 - 20:52
Meaux Jeaux
Meaux Jeaux's picture
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Joined: 10/25/2014

Kinya,

Any word yet as to when Hohner will offer the "Rocket" reed plates?

I too am impressed with the new plates on the Rocket and would

like to retro-fit some Special20s.

Peter

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Sun, 11/02/2014 - 07:36
#1
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
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Joined: 02/07/2010
Hello Peter, With exception

Hello Peter,

With exception of a couple of new clearance holes, the Hohner Rocket reed plates are identical to the Special 20. So to install Rocket/SP20 reed plates onto your existing Special 20 combs, (with coverplates) will be a zero sum proposition.

On the flip side, if you retrofit your existing SP20 plates (why? .. maybe 'cause you customized them) onto a Rocket comb with Rocket cover plates ... then you will hear the difference.

Note: the re-tooled Hohner Special 20--under the new PROGRESSIVE category--has the new Rocket/SP20 reed plates and newly minted "non-vented" cover plates.

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

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Sun, 11/02/2014 - 13:45
#2
Meaux Jeaux
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Joined: 10/25/2014
re: exceptions

Kinya,

To my eye (admittedly not so good, I wear tri-focals) the reed plates of the Rocket

appear to have closer tolerances and less aggressive tuning striations, is this right?

I never was that great at blocking the vents on the Marine Band when cupping

with a mic, so I prefer non-vented covers.

Best Regards, Peter

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Mon, 11/03/2014 - 12:17
#3
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
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Joined: 02/07/2010
Hi Peter You do have a good

Hi Peter

You do have a good eye.

I found the later model Special 20s also had closer tolerances and less aggressive tuning striations.

Your Harpsmith.

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