New_B
23 posts
Jul 31, 2008
3:25 PM
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Do you prefer using a harmonica with a wooden or plastic comb?
I have started to work seriously on tongue-blocking, but I cannot yet control the amount of saliva that gets on, or into the harp. I really like the Marine Band, but I am afraid I would destroy the combs. Currently, I use the Special 20 whenever I work on tongue-blocking.
Can the saliva you produce when you play, be controlled - especially when tongue-blocking?
Last Edited by on Jul 31, 2008 4:01 PM
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LittleJoeSamson
7 posts
Aug 01, 2008
1:11 AM
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I prefer the plastic, or even better, metal alloy. Some of these bother some people allergically, so it is good to find out ahead. I had one friend whose lips swelled froma titanium alloy comb, and he could not play for a month. Luckily, I am not bothered with titanium, aluminum, or stainless.
I have eschewed wood combed harps for all of the bad conditions that can develop. The worst for me is when they do not dry out adequately and a mold builds. YUK! then you have to take it all apart and soak it in a disinfectant, sometimes ruining the comb; and it does not always work.
I like the Hering 1923 Vintages so much though, that I have taken to immediately deconstructing new ones and sealing the ENTIRE comb with various finishes. I like first using brushing lacquer, letting dry, sand smooth; then spray paint with gold. They are real eyegrabbers, and I know which ones are mine.
Next on the agenda is to use some exotic veneers...something that I became skilled at as an antique furniture restorer.
Back to tongue blocking, or lip blocking: it is just a larger area: but the individual has to decide what they want for ease of sliding and taste.
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Jeff
143 posts
Aug 01, 2008
7:18 AM
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There are a couple plastic combs where I've gotten lost because the holes have no edges and my tongue has very little surface difference to detect where I am on the harp.
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snakes
13 posts
Aug 01, 2008
5:27 PM
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I am just learning to tongue block as a newbie (approaching a year) and have tried the following harmonicas. Big River, Marine Band, Hohner Blues Harp, Lee Oskar, Suzuki Bluesmaster, Suzuki Promaster and Special 20's. I actually own at least one of each of these (I know - a real hit with the wife). I am inclined to say my best experience tongue blocking is with the Promaster which has a metal comb. Granted I have selected the Suzuki brand as my brand of choice overall, but I must agree with the previous post regarding the benefits of metal combs. As a further comment the tongue block method seems to take away some of the brightness of the Suzuki harp while still allowing it to be a harmonica that delivers a good amount of volume without amplification.
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eharp
73 posts
Aug 02, 2008
10:19 AM
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a different question about tb but probably not worth a new thread.
when tb-ing how does one articulate notes. i can ta-ta while puckering easily. i cant get a sharp sound while tb-ing. anybody??
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shaneboylan
35 posts
Aug 02, 2008
4:44 PM
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Use the side of your tongue - takes a bit of practice - but when you hear how well SBII can articulate those "t's" in his recordings it' worth practicing!
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"I play the harmonica. The only way I can play is if I get my car going really fast, and stick it out the window."
-Steven Wright
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