What steps to follow when customizing a harp
Hello Kinya,
Let's say I have the basic tools I may need and now I want to "break " some old harps in order to learn how it's done.
So in what order would you recommend me to do the customizations?
I am assking because I assume that one customization may distort the settings done by another, so I assume there are best practices as to the order that shall be followed.
Here are the adjustments I plan to do:
1. Adjusting the reeds zero point2. Using a light box to adjust how the reeds enter the slots3. Reed gapping4.Embossing5. Tunning
Can you please recommend me the order in which I should do them?
Thanks in advance!
Angel
Many thanks!!!
I have played with a hohner silver star that I have had for about 20 years now.
I have not done the best job, but still it plays like a charm and better than some of the more expensive harps I own :D...my first custom harp! I am so excited! and it is all thanks to your lessons!!!
The comb is plastic and very much resembles the special 20s' and looks very well sealed. I just need to tighten the screws a bit to ensure no air would escape.
I have an issue with that specific model however. The -1 reed seems to hit the bottom cover plate when played too loud.
Would there be any "trick" that I could use to prevent that?
Finding custom coverplates for that harp would be close to impossible. It looks like a special 20 but the plates are much bigger.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Angel, the easiest (and cheapest) method of deadening the click clack of #1 draw reed hitting the draw cover plate, is to:
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With a Sharpie, mark the spot on the inside of the draw cover plate where the #1 draw reed tip touch
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Cut a piece of the noise dampening self-stick vinyl measuring approximately ⅛” x ⅛”
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Adhere this piece on the spot you had marked
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Reattach cover plates and try to recreate the original clicking noise
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If the clicking persists, reposition the pad or increase the size of the pad
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
I happen to have some of those lying i
arrond the house so I have put the patch and now the "cling" is no longer there!!!!
You seem to have all the (right) answers!
Many thanks!
Thanx Angel! With over 50 years of tinkering and fabricating stuff--half that time dedicated to harmonicas, I know a thing or two ;o) Glad to be of service.
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Hello Angel, assuming you are happy with the comb and cover plates, work in this order:
Your Harpsmith, Kinya