Augmented tuning question

[CasualChrom]

So ever since my first thread on this forum (Advice for beginners) where roady43 recommended augmented tuning, I've been thinking about going that route.  Now I'm thinking about it more seriously. 

Assuming I ended up doing that, how would I go about getting my CX-12 (in C) retuned to augmented tuning? 

Do you buy new read plates with the augmented layout, do you replace some of the reeds, or do you modify the existing reeds to change their pitch?

I don't know the first thing about modifying a harmonica, so I don't think I would want to try it myself.  But I don't know of anyone local who does that, so I guess I'm hoping there are either people on SlideMeister who could do that, or who could recommend people who would do it.

About what does that sort of thing cost?  Is it the sort of thing a technician does in a couple of days, or is it a bigger job than that?

[roady43]

CasualChrom, congratulations on your decision!

Best to do first is ask Hohner for an offer of a pair of single reedplates for the CX 12 in augmented tuning. The normal replacement prize for the standart plates is about 68.00 Euro, the thicker plates about 80.00 Euro. My guess is that they charge a plus of about 100.00 Euro for the extra tuning (as did harponline).

Consider which note should be the lowest (hole 1). The layout must be very clear, I recommend augmented with halftone slide. My 12 holers start @ D#3. I think this is excellent in terms of the relation between reed length and frequency over the entire range (top notes in hole 12 will be the same as in standard solo tuning).

It will take some time but if you're in the US, try to order them from Hohner USA.

I would not try to modify existing reeds. What I did was ordering raw reedplates and then put new fitting reeds on them (with screws).  This was more than a bigger job

If you need help, just ask. I can send you the layout if you wish.

roady43

[triggerfinger]

Hi Roady

Is Hohner now officially doing non-standard tunings?


CasualChrom

Seydel does non-standard tunings of the Seydel Deluxe. Just go to their site and use the HarpConfigurator.

[roady43]

Hi Roady

Is Hohner now officially doing non-standard tunings?


CasualChrom

Seydel does non-standard tunings of the Seydel Deluxe. Just go to their site and use the HarpConfigurator.

Funny that you ask, I had that impression because of a post from you (you might not have read it):

Hohner is considering my request for an augmented-tuned MK. If they finally say yes then that's my next harp.

Fantastic! Tell them, if there are problems for the lowest hole (on my knowledge reeds for this slotsize, Bb2 to C#3 do not exist!), that they should put just 4 x the lowest available reed for that size they have (I think it is D3). Tuning those down to what you desire will be no problem by doing it yourself. Recently I ordered augmented reedplates with the harponline tuning designer (one of the last orders just before they closed!) for my 2nd MK and that was exactly the solution. Sound very good and are equipped with the new valves...

These reedplates and the ones for my Slide Harp must have been produced by Hohner. Try to get in contact with Michael Timler. He should know all about what Hohner is willing or able to do concerning alternate tunings.

roady43

[triggerfinger]

Roady

They are still considering the request. 

[roady43]

Any news from Hohner yet? If you live in the States, does Hohner USA deal for things like this with Hohner Germany?

A year ago (it was before summer 2010) I called Hohner and asked for a custom (augmented) tuning: they told me to get in direct contact with Michael Timler from harponline. Since he is working for Hohner now (exclusively), there should be a positive answer on your request...

roady43

[triggerfinger]

Hi Roady

I have not had any correspondence with Hohner on this issue since January. Thanks for the reminder. Are you interested in purchasing one as well? If so then perhaps we should consider a common augy tuning and making our plea together. Just an idea.

Cheers

[roady43]

Hi Roady

I have not had any correspondence with Hohner on this issue since January. Thanks for the reminder. Are you interested in purchasing one as well? If so then perhaps we should consider a common augy tuning and making our plea together. Just an idea.

Cheers

Nice idea, but our layout differs by a semitone (your lowest note for a 12 hole chrome: E3, mine: D#3). So ordering "a bundle" wouldn't save anything, I guess. The other thing is, I have plenty augmented instruments at the moment, I only would order CX-12 reedplates (as a spare), if anything...

roady43

[triggerfinger]

Hi Roady

I would be willing to shift the hole pattern by a major third but that would probably not be acceptable to you either.