Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Hello Harp Techs, have you all discovered the benefits of good REED GAPPING to enhance your harmonica player’s experience? 

Why it Matters

“Eyeballing” (guessing) reed gap tolerances is OK, but using precision tools and templates will guarantee more consistent and AMAZING results!

Try this:  continue reading...

Hey Kinya,

Just wanted to let you know that I am really enjoying your Marine Band University series.  I am taking what I have learned in this series. and attempting to upgrade a twelve hole Marine Band that I purchased many years ago.

Thanks so much for posting all this great information.  I look forward to any more segments you may post in the future.

Homer.

Hello Harp Techs

For us 2nd Position harmonica players, the #4 BLOW and DRAW reeds are super important.

WHY IT MATTERS

• The #4 BLOW (and one octave lower; #1 Blow) is the most important note of the IV Chord

• The #4 DRAW (and one octave lower; #1 Draw) is the most important note of the V Chord continue reading...

Hey Kinya,

I'm seriously considering trying to rig up a mechanical system to get absolutely consistent airflow results for my tuning table.

I'm wondering if you have done such a thing or if you just use the bellows or the tube?

Obviously it's going to require a vacuum pump of some kind and some valves.

Anybody set up a rig like this? Got any specs?

Thanks,

TomE

Welcome back Students, during Summer Break I'm certain all of you had an opportunity to work on (and perfect) your Lesson One techniques. Here for Lesson Two, you will learn how to:

1. Flatten the Draw Reed plate
2. Size the reed plate slots
3. Set the "Zero Point" 
4. Profile the Reed

https://www.bluesharmonica.com/harpsmith_bench

Class is back in session!

Your Headmaster, Kinya

Hi Kinya.

Now that I've got post-orthodontic retainers that I'd like to keep from getting too cruddy, I'm getting serious about an ultrasonic cleaner that I can use for them, as well as for my harps.

I've been happy with the BugBlaster I bought from James at TurboHarp, and he used to have an ultrasonic cleaner avaiable, but I get the impression that he's experienced supply-chain issues. continue reading...

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

We are not affiliated with MicroMark, just passing on information that will benefit our members ;o) continue reading...

Hello Kinya,

My eyesight is no longer adequate for the finer detail work. I looked around on Amazon.com, etc, and didn't like the reviews I was reading. Can you recommend some reliable magnifier "eyes". I recall seeing you wearing some on one of your videos. I don't mind, too much, spending more for something that works.

Hank H

Hello Harp Techs, our friend and favorite mad scientist, Brendan Power has just released his diatonic Marine Band Overblow Booster MK2 Harmonica. I purchased one from his first batch of 25 signed and numbered hand-made lots. It is amongst Brendan’s top tier innovations that will benefit the Diatonic Richter harmonica player. I’ll explain why in just a moment, but becoming aware of the back story will increase your appreciation of this little marvel. continue reading...

Hello Kinya.  Hope you are doing well.  Great postings on your site.  I tried to order another TurboHarp and a message appeared that the company is not taking orders at this time.  Do you have any info on this issue?