Aug-22-05 10:02pm  [ re: didj3 ]

didj3, pcguyiv told you correctly. The swelling is caused from moisture getting into your harp and soaking into the wooden comb. (comb, thats the part in between the two brass reed plates). What ever you do make sure when your through playing your harps (and even in between songs) you shake or tap out as much of the moisture as possible by holding the harp holes down and tapping it onto the palm of your hand, or the upper part of your leg. Then lay it somewhere so it can dry out completely before putting it back in its box.

Now since you like the Marine Bands I would suggest you getting a Special 20 (even if you have to wait for the dealer to order it), you see a Special 20 is a Marine Band but with a plastic comb. The plastic comb will not swell up on you. And trust me, the Special 20 feels a whole lot better in your mouth then a Marine Band or Blues Harp. I have played all of the above harps. I used to play mostly Blues Harps (and the little Vest Pockets) but now prefer the Special 20 due to them having the plastic combs.

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BillyRay