Ask Harp Mic Expert Greg Heumann

OK Greg - in response to your request: there have been many 'discussions' on wood vs other comb materials regarding tone. As well, discussions around brass vs stainless steel reeds. How about mics used for harps?

For example, your Heumann element in a Bulletizer mic vs the Heumann element in one of your 'woodies'. Any differences? the same question regarding a Heumann element or a CM in the same mic regardless of the material on the construction of the mic or the make of the mic? continue reading...

What's on your mind? 

Amplifed harp is a new instrument. Mastering the instrument requires gear, technique and practice -. Of course, knowing how to play the harmonica in the first place is important - but not sufficient to be a good amplified player.  continue reading...

Hi Greg,

I am trying to install a screw on connector in a turner 256 shell. 

The shell is thin so there is no threads like on a Shure Bullet mic where you might just screw it in. I expect I just need some loctite and tighten the nut on the inside of the shell. However because of the angle of the shell where the connector goes in and it's small size i am having a hard time getting at the nut. Is there a special tool I should be using? I've tried getting at it with a small crescent and its not working because of the angle and tight quarters in the shell. continue reading...

Greg,

So how come someone isn't manufacturing (real) crystal elements these days? Seems there is a need. Is it toxic? Explosive? High cost?

But then, I do see them on eBay every so often... 2 for $25.

Greg,

So how come someone isn't manufacturing (real) crystal elements these days? Seems there is a need. Is it toxic? Explosive? High cost?

But then, I do see them on eBay every so often... 2 for $25.

I purchased a Electro Voice model 43 microphone. And it uses a slandered XLR jack. And I have a XLR jack adapter that allow you to hook up a quarter-inch jack. And the microphone wont produce a sound. I dont know if I needs some type of converter hook up. Or if there something wrong on the inside. Any advice would be great.

Hi Greg, Kinya here

Will your new bullet mic cartridge fit inside a 1 5/8" ID form factor?

Hi Greg,I recently bought a '62 520SLB that is in great condition.  It has the original white CM element and it has a 4 prong cord going to a 1/4" plug so it is set to hi-z.  I have tried to compare it to my 520DX and I've noticed that the 520DX is louder (when the DX's volume knob is at the highest) than the 520SLB when keeping the amp's settings the same.  When I have used the 520SLB, so far, I have to turn the amp's volume up a few numbers to match the volume of the DX.  The microphone sounds great, though, and gets a better sound than the DX.   continue reading...

In one of Daves lectures, he mentioned a 'Biscuit' mic, any idea where to get one ?

              Thank you for your time

                           Steven Barta

Hello Greg,

Your're doing great work here Brother--I dig it. Jason Ricci looked and sounded terrific--with your SM57U in clear view, on the recent HBO Rock and Roll Hall of Fame special.

Years ago, David gifted me a mint conditioned Shure 533SA. The cartridge is so-so, but the head is super awesome. I love how the bottom portion of the ball is entirely closed off. But alas ... it's heavy. continue reading...