Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Hello Harp Techs, 

Mrs. Harpsmith, who coined the phrase "Harmonicoccus", for the nasties we harmonica players leave in our harmonicas found this timely article from the New York Times:

Here’s a public service announcement for anyone who plays a woodwind, such as a clarinet or saxophone: Clean your instrument! continue reading...

Kinya, continue reading...

Just recieved the Seydel Soundcheck Vol. 3 Setup Pack! continue reading...

Hi Kinya...I have a Special 20 harmonica in Bb.  When I bend the three draw, I get a high-pitched squeal, almost all the time.  What do you think is causing this and how do you think I can remedy it.

Thanks in advance for you input.

Homer.

Hello Harp Techs, 

This is sort of like one of those movie trailers ... coming soon to this Forum will be my pictorial review of Brendan Power's X-Reed modified Suzuki Sub30.

This harmonica is nothing short of amazing engineering--packing 30 reeds into the space of a typical 20 reed diatonic harmonica. "So many notes, with so little time ..."

Who knows, this maybe your next favorite harmonica! 

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

Hello Harp Techs, When I contributed articles to HarmonicaSessions.com, many of you communicated how those clear, close up photographs were in helping you learn harp tech concepts and techniques. Effective immediately, thanks to Andy and David, we can more clearly communicate solutions to your harmonica issues with the help of pictures. continue reading...

Just started watching your videos, very useful!

Thanks for the Info
Dan (SOTB Student)

P.S.
To save time & money should I just buy Richard Sleigh's Tool Kit?
I play Crossovers & 20's BTW.

Hello Harp Techs

When flattening reed plates or metal combs, I recommended using "Wet or Dry" sandpaper (black 400-600g), with a teaspoon of water dropped onto the service of the sandpaper. You will discover superior results over sanding dry.

The reason for this is that water mitigates clogging (metal dust) of the sandpaper, and allows the reed plates and metal combs to come in full contact with the abrasives properties of the sand paper. continue reading...

Hello Harp Techs
This blog will be for you HT's experimenting with composite comb materials ... continue reading...

Hello Harp Techs
Similar to tuning guitar strings--where you stretch off impurities and other hanger ons--don't forget to tune "past" the point where you had erased the beat. This means you should hear the beat again. Finally, tune the opposite end of the reed to eliminate the beat for good ... well at least until you had a chance to blow the heck out of your harmonica!

I recommend viewing Harp Tech Study #7 for a review.

Your Harpsmith
Kinya