Today I review the Arkia Signature Harmonica. ⚡️ Get the Scale Cheatsheet (free!): www.harmonicarevolution.com/s... Arkia Harmonicas: en.arkia-harmonica.com
I've been playing out for about 30 years, so I've played a lot of different harps in that time. I got my first Arkia Signature about 6 months ago and was blown away with it's tone and playability and responsiveness. Hands down the best out of the box harp I've played. Unfortunately because of this I had to get a full set. My wallet isn't happy 😁. While they're using Hohner crossover reed plates they do a fair amount of customization to the reed plates before shipping them out. I've found their quality control to be superb and consistent throughout the keys. I've also found their customer service to be outstanding. They are continuing to innovative and improve. It's a company to watch.
Great review and a great sounding Harmonica. It really sounds great in person. Had fun jamming tonight. It’s been a long time since we played. Felt good.
I was a reasonably good harmonica player years ago, but hardy new what I was doing. I Really loved the sound of the Arkia. Evidently the factory will modify the harp at request. Would you recommend l request they adjust the holes 1 through 7 for over blows and underdraws? If so I think I’m looking at close to a month before I will receive my harp but it may be well worth the wait you think?
I have a "Origin" in C and I love it. A bit more expensive than a Crossover but still a good price for a musical instrument. By the way, I ordered online from Canada and got it in 7 days.
I dont comment too often on videos, just wanted to say that piece at the end inspired me to get back into researching harmonica, or harps? Haha, love them, wanna learn them, and didnt even know they called em harps... I've got a long ways to go, heck, didn't even know they made them in all those keys but I know next to nothing about music. Going to check out more of your videos and then find a good beginner harp...this one did sound better to my ears than the others but what would I know really. Gonna look into them and buy one this next week, this one sounds great. Not sure it's a "good beginner" one, but I may just order one anyways Gotta start somewhere! Keep it up, you are slaying that thing my man!
Thanks! It got copyright claimed, which is annoying. Half the time I put an original song up, UA-cam flags it from being from someone else. Kinda frustrating, but it will work itself out in time.
My Signature arrived a few days ago. It plays beautifully right out of the box. I think Jonah's assessment is correct, it meets the standard for paying a premium price. I can get a custom Rocket Amp for around the same price in the States,but since I live in Ireland the Signature cost me 7 euros for shipping and none of the 21% customs bullsh*t that the People's Republic of Ireland would make me pay if it came from the States. I prefer the tone of Seydel reeds to the Hohner reeds, but the smooth playability makes up for my tone preference. Playing and learning harmonica is a hobby for me. When I'm happy playing the cost is damn near meaningless. I'm the same way with my running shoes and my watercolor painting. I'll pay for joy.
I own one Arkia signature and for the price I had a fully customized harmonica. I don’t know why you can’t play the overblows or why is not adjusted for you. They have a great costumer service and I’m sure they could have done it for you. Also their new reed stabilizing and air control plate will help you to reach the over blows and over draws cleaner. Actually be careful DO NOT adjust the reed first. First try to tighten the small screws of the airflow control plate. I got a bunch of them and two more coming up :) but I was having a problem with the 5th blow that only over blows after playing it for a day. I started working with the reeds but it was actually the Airflow control plate that was too tight in this case. Once I got it more loose I was able to play the 5 blow and still get the over blow. I hope this helps.
love your channel I usually agree with everything that you say not so much with this one. I play G.Ms like most harp players went thought a lot of harps to find what I like. Has for overblows all pro grade harps can be made to get the 4.5.6 with adjustment. I found the G.Ms one of the easiest to set up don't no about the new G.Ms yet got one on order to try out, you still had to set it to O/B right ! at that price. A lot harmonica companies have claimed or suggested that they're harmonicas do. finding a harp that O/Bs perfectly out of the box is just luck. LOVE THE SOUND OF IT.
Jonah, excellent analysis and very educational, thank you. His performance at the end, SPECTACULAR!!!, where can we see the exclusive video of him with that song and what is the name of the song? Blue song?
Jonah, maybe the Suzuki Manji reeds/plates would be good alternatives to the Kongsheng? Your Signature harp has a very smooth detailed sound. Nice playing!
For me, I consider the spacing between holes in the comb; preferably a Hohner over a Lee Oskar. The best bending harp I've owned was a 1920's Marine Band. I assume it was the makeup of the "brass" in the reeds. Cool harp, man!
If you want some thing high end, this is a good Harp. If you have the money, I would say, it’s a good investment. You only need one good harmonica to learn how to play. If you want to save some money, and still get something really quality, they have a slightly cheaper model that I mentioned in this video. Otherwise, I would say get a hohner special 20. They are pretty good, good quality control. They don’t wow me like this harmonica did, but if you’re just getting started, you might not know the difference.
I’ve played the Signature, it is very nicely made and plays well. That being said, for the money, it would be worthwhile to look at Blue Moon Harmonicas. I’ve only played one of them, but from the moment you play it you know it’s the best harmonica. The stuff Tom Halchek does is absolute magic.
I’ll check them out at some point. I have a few of their combs which are very nice. I would expect this Harmonica to be similar to most custom harps as far a playability, but those can really vary in price, from $150-$300+
@@HarmonicaRevolution I’d say it ranks just below the custom harps I’ve tried, which is only a Spiers and a Blue moon. Compared to a regular bone stock Hohner, the Arkia has better response and overall playability, but not quite what I’d expect for $150 considering you can find really good custom harps for close to that. Not to mention the ongoing customer support you’ll get from a good customizer. Not trying to sway anyones opinion, just mentioning it as an option for folks to look at. All in all the Arkia is a very fine instrument and by far the best factory out of the box harp.
You are right sir. With respect, I'm skeptical. These prices are high. I took the bait on a Yonberg and it's mediocre. Rocking Ron has a custom 1847 with Zajac comb for less. Mr. Fox here, has excellent instructional videos and materials, give your premium money to him. Then again, what do I know, I'm just a man with a harp habit.
@@regorRegor have yet to hear good things about Yonberg vs their prices. For the average player, none of the $75+ harps are going to help much, it’s not until you start to learn nuances and more advanced techniques that the precise setup will benefit the user. Are they better than $40-50 harps, in almost every way… will the average player benefit from the extra cost? Emphatically No. The one thing to consider about the RR’s Seydel vs the ARK, is the Seydel does not include reed gapping setup, only premium parts.
So I remember about 30 years ago I discovered Lee Oscar harps...I felt the same way as you about how easy they were to play and bend. What are your thoughts on Lee Oscar? I never hear anything about them.
In want to order an Arkia signature . They evidently will modify the harp for you. Would you recommend that I request they adjust the 1 through 7 holes for over blows and under draws? I think I’m looking and about a month before it will arrive.
Hi Jonah, can you make a video covering the adjustments to reeds etc. When you say "spacing" I don't know what you mean. Also tuning reeds which I know can be tricky. What is the best way to do that without bending or breaking them? Maybe you have already covered this.
This goes over reed adjustments: ua-cam.com/video/UPI9Hh5JMyk/v-deo.html Overblow adjustments are the same, just more meticulous… really gotta make sure both of blow reed and draw reed gaps are tiny. As far as tuning reeds, I don’t have a video on that yet.
I always like seeing new brands enter the space. Competition is great for the industry. My best OTB harp is my Kongsheng Solist. I'm not a great OB player, but right out of the box the 4-6 gave me stable overblows. A close second is my Seydel 1847 Noble I got for 16:23, on a custom Blue Moon comb, which OBs 4-6, with 4 and 5 being stable even with my wonky OB technique. /I struggled for a long time with OBs. Finally, a friend of mine sent me one he'd set up and I started to get them. The next breakthrough was learning the hiss method instead of the straw method.
Is this harmonica worth the price if you're not going to play many overblows? In terms of hitting normal draw and blow bends easily does it out perform an 1847 or a Crossover?
I think it’s better. That said, it feels very similar to a crossover. If you already have crossovers and really like them, I don’t think you’ll find a huge upgrade with this harmonica if you don’t overblow.
Jonah. Me again. That sounds like a fantastic harp. The $157 model is too much for me, but I might consider the cheaper one. Thanks for bringing this to our attention! One question about gapping for overbends. I know I have to tighten (narrow) the reed gaps for holes 4, 5 and 6 to better get overblows. But what about the draw reeds in each of those holes? Do they need to be adjusted, too? If so, how narrow do those gaps typically need to be? Thanks for the help. BTW, I agree with other commenters that your original piece at the end if this video is great!
Both the blow and draw reeds need to be adjusted so the gaps are as small as possible without choking the reed out. Usually the blow reeds are the biggest issue, but if either are leaky, then you can’t overblow
@@atvalleau it also helps to flat-mate draw plate with the comb, and slot embossing to increase responsiveness and ease of “popping” into an ob/od. Focus on getting the blow reeds as closely gapped as you can without choking under firm playing pressure.
I was so impressed with your video that I bought a set of these - the basic model which is just without the Crossover reeds. They took a very long time to arrive. They sounded great, but one of the G key arrived with a blocked note 7 reed. I was really disappointed at this as I have never bought a harmonica in such condition at any price point - and I have over 100. I have to take it apart and see what I can do because Arkia was so sluggish in processing and filling my order that I have no confidence in any customer service response. I don't want to wait half a year, or never.
Reeds gets stuck, it happens. Try blowing and drawing pretty aggressively, or blow bending if you can. It’s totally normal and can happen on any Harmonica.
@@HarmonicaRevolution I've been playing since I was ten (I'm 71) and I have never had a new harmonica arrive with a stuck reed. But since these have "valves" it could be a different situation. I have tried being a "blowhard" (haha). I think I have to take it apart. Have you taken one apart? If you have, I'd like to hear your report and maybe see some photos. It's an expensive harmonica and I would hate to damage it while trying to repair it.
@@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244 it's just like a normal harmonica when you take it apart, but the blow reeds are covered by the plate that's attached on the back. You can still access them to adjust them like normal.
Thanks, Jonah - love your videos. I've got a ton of Crossovers. Could I buy the Arkia Original and swap out the Kongsheng reed plates for one of my Crossovers?
I have an ARKIA Origin model and the reed plate is the same length as that of the Crossover, however the Crossover plate is not as "deep" (length from mouth end to back end) as that of the ARKIA origin, so I doubt that the other parts (comb, RSS, etc) will fit. I am not even going to try it. I'm going to order the Signature.
When Jonah says a harmonica is great, it's practically gospel! I've tried countless harmonicas, and, in my humble opinion, the Crossover is the one for me. The only thing I'd change about it are those coverplates; they could be a tad broader. Today, I caved and ordered the Arkia Signature. I'm honestly afraid I'll like it too much and end up wanting it in all the other keys as well…
I’m a really big fan of these harps, they play great straight out of the box and bend really well, bit expensive but no more so than a Seydel, though no steel reeds ! Why not at very nearly £80 The company are great to do business with but they have to do something urgently about delivery from France to the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Very nearly 7 weeks from order day to delivery day is just far too long to wait. But they do sound sweet and are one of the easiest harps I’ve had the pleasure of playing.
@@HarmonicaRevolution Even Arkia have agreed that they will have to find another way to deliver to the UK, my latest purchase was made on the 6 June and it eventually arrived on the 11 July 😳 You know the real issue is that I’m hooked on these harps ! I’ve not had a bad one, ever. They all play pretty much straight out of the box and sound so sweet I forgive them every time. Not the experience I’ve had with Seydel products, some are great others can be truly awful and at the price point that is unacceptable. Have you tried Polar harps ? I’m told they are quite good but not tried one yet, American manufacturers I believe ! Thanks for the vids man I wish UA-cam and someone like you had been about when I first started playing but then I grew up with Larry Adler 😂 Stay safe fella.
@@lordelpus4283 I really dislike the Polars and the Torpedos. Bad harps, in my opinion. They don't sound great, and even the premium one feels cheap and have sharp edges. Hard pass from me.
@@HarmonicaRevolution You see ! Another good piece of information and not just for this old chap. What would I do without ya fella 😉 I’m a real fan of Arkia, Seydel , Honner and to a lesser degree Lee Oskar’s. I won’t be ordering anything from Arkia until after their vacation period so next attempt will be in August when hopefully they will be able to offer a better delivery service, otherwise I’ll be coming to you for my future orders ! Bet you could obtain and send them faster than Arkia 😂
hello@@lordelpus4283, I do remember the problems we had on your order. We've experienced a long delay on few orders to the UK last month. I'm happy to tell you that we've changed the shipping partner for the UK, and so far it seems to be much better. We don't have much experience for the time being, but our 4 last orders for the UK were delivered within a week. Best regards, thanks for your patience, and have a great harmonical time!
Harley Benton/Thoman does a set of various keys for about *80$. yeah for the whole set ?!? please consider giving these your critical eye and ear and rest . Thanks for your cool reviews . Im going to start playing due to your vids .So i will keep you up up to speed .
Overblows are additional chromatic notes that are inaccessible without a very particular technique and a harmonica that enables that note. This would be a harmonica that you would buy to make that technique easier to execute. You could also do reed set up on your own, but your results may vary.
When I was a kid around 10 I messed around with the harmonica. I was never very good but I had fun. My Mom bought me two Hohner Goliath models , one in C and the other in G. I can’t believe how expensive these harmonicas are today. I also have a Hohner Chromatic. All of these harmonicas are now almost 70 years old. I loved the song at the end, it was great.
Excellent review. My only concern w/Harmonicas these days is that I'd like to know if the ones who bring a "plastic" comb and/or a Reed Stabilization System (RSS), like this ARKIA, are made with PFAS. That's why I prefer a wood comb!
Hey Jonah I bought an Arkia Signature is it bad to wet them or play in the shower with them? I really like the sound when they’re wet and they seem easier to play. I play the Lee Oskar harp wet but the reeds went out a lot. Now I have a lot of Lee Oskars lying around that I don’t play.
I was very excited when my order from France arrived. And then I was very disappointed when I played the harp, and found it unplayable! Had three major dead spots that no matter how much I tried would not even make a sound! I been playing harp for about 10 years and have a good collection, none of them even the cheap ones were DOA out of the box! Not impressed! Going to contact them and see if they will send a replacement!
@@HarmonicaRevolution So they got back to me, and wanted me to make a video of each hole being played. I did that, and now I have to pay out of pocket the return shipping, and wait for them to refund the cost, instead of just sending me a prepaid shipping label. I want an exchange for one that plays right, not a refund. Guess it will be another month now?
@@HumbleHeartMinistry Sorry friend! My experience has been good. Duds among harmonicas are always possible, and at least they are working with you. If you buy a harp from the big brands, you are usually just out of your money with no returns possible.
I do not believe. Completely unknown company. I would wait for a rating from famous harmonica stars. The price is unreal. the sound is quite sharp. You didn't convince me
Overpriced gimmick. There are lots of great out of the box harps. For you to say this is THE BEST just makes me wonder how much this company paid you to say that.
Again too expensive and I don't like the sound you get. Your OB's are out quite a bit, Out the box all OB's OD's work best ion an 1896 MB you didn't even review that. The playing you do at the end again, not in tune. Crossovers for example are nothing compared to an 1896 , bamboo comb loses a lot of tone and multiphonics don't . sit right with bamboo.Just for the record I have been a session player over 40 years.
Very good amateur but zero, I mean zero soul. Really bad player. France should sue. No one talks about that brand, as he said...for a reason. Both versions are way too expensive. Stay in port. Great presentation of a less-than-average overpriced potato.
Hi Barry. I would just get new crossover reed plates. May have to do additional setup, but you still get the benefits of the comb design and air stopper.
Jonah, no matter how much you talk the Arkia is too much money. You can talk all you want but you’re polishing an expensive turd here, I would not endorse them. Plus it’s made by the French. No thanks.
They use 3D printed parts😂 It might play like a God but I’m not spending that kind of cash on something with FDM printed parts. Hopefully that’s not PLA😅
I've been playing out for about 30 years, so I've played a lot of different harps in that time. I got my first Arkia Signature about 6 months ago and was blown away with it's tone and playability and responsiveness. Hands down the best out of the box harp I've played. Unfortunately because of this I had to get a full set. My wallet isn't happy 😁.
While they're using Hohner crossover reed plates they do a fair amount of customization to the reed plates before shipping them out. I've found their quality control to be superb and consistent throughout the keys.
I've also found their customer service to be outstanding. They are continuing to innovative and improve. It's a company to watch.
Great demo, great song. Fantastic. Thanks for inspiring.
Amazing! I can hear the difference! Great review.
Great review on this and outstanding playing at the end. Thank you
Great review and a great sounding Harmonica. It really sounds great in person. Had fun jamming tonight. It’s been a long time since we played. Felt good.
I was a reasonably good harmonica player years ago, but hardy new what I was doing. I Really loved the sound of the Arkia. Evidently the factory will modify the harp at request. Would you recommend l request they adjust the holes 1 through 7 for over blows and underdraws? If so I think I’m looking at close to a month before I will receive my harp but it may be well worth the wait you think?
Great review thanks!
Oh! Great playing man
Thoroughly enjoyed your control over the instrument.
You are pretty good!! Gifted in every way. Thanks.
Thanks for turning us on to this!
I have a "Origin" in C and I love it. A bit more expensive than a Crossover but still a good price for a musical instrument. By the way, I ordered online from Canada and got it in 7 days.
What store/site did you order from?
I dont comment too often on videos, just wanted to say that piece at the end inspired me to get back into researching harmonica, or harps? Haha, love them, wanna learn them, and didnt even know they called em harps...
I've got a long ways to go, heck, didn't even know they made them in all those keys but I know next to nothing about music.
Going to check out more of your videos and then find a good beginner harp...this one did sound better to my ears than the others but what would I know really.
Gonna look into them and buy one this next week, this one sounds great. Not sure it's a "good beginner" one, but I may just order one anyways
Gotta start somewhere!
Keep it up, you are slaying that thing my man!
Great harmonica, phantastic player, Il‘l have more of it. Thanx
Jonah: By the way, what a great original song you played at the end! It really demonstrated what that Arkia Signature harp is capable of. Cheers.
Thanks! It got copyright claimed, which is annoying. Half the time I put an original song up, UA-cam flags it from being from someone else. Kinda frustrating, but it will work itself out in time.
@@HarmonicaRevolution Great stuff, Jonah!
My Signature arrived a few days ago. It plays beautifully right out of the box. I think Jonah's assessment is correct, it meets the standard for paying a premium price. I can get a custom Rocket Amp for around the same price in the States,but since I live in Ireland the Signature cost me 7 euros for shipping and none of the 21% customs bullsh*t that the People's Republic of Ireland would make me pay if it came from the States. I prefer the tone of Seydel reeds to the Hohner reeds, but the smooth playability makes up for my tone preference. Playing and learning harmonica is a hobby for me. When I'm happy playing the cost is damn near meaningless. I'm the same way with my running shoes and my watercolor painting. I'll pay for joy.
Love the tune ! My first Hohner was 2.50
I own one Arkia signature and for the price I had a fully customized harmonica. I don’t know why you can’t play the overblows or why is not adjusted for you. They have a great costumer service and I’m sure they could have done it for you. Also their new reed stabilizing and air control plate will help you to reach the over blows and over draws cleaner. Actually be careful DO NOT adjust the reed first. First try to tighten the small screws of the airflow control plate. I got a bunch of them and two more coming up :) but I was having a problem with the 5th blow that only over blows after playing it for a day. I started working with the reeds but it was actually the Airflow control plate that was too tight in this case. Once I got it more loose I was able to play the 5 blow and still get the over blow.
I hope this helps.
love your channel I usually agree with everything that you say not so much with this one. I play G.Ms like most harp players went thought a lot of harps to find what I like. Has for overblows all pro grade harps can be made to get the 4.5.6 with adjustment. I found the G.Ms one of the easiest to set up don't no about the new G.Ms yet got one on order to try out, you still had to set it to O/B right ! at that price. A lot harmonica companies have claimed or suggested that they're harmonicas do. finding a harp that O/Bs perfectly out of the box is just luck. LOVE THE SOUND OF IT.
Jonah, excellent analysis and very educational, thank you. His performance at the end, SPECTACULAR!!!, where can we see the exclusive video of him with that song and what is the name of the song? Blue song?
Great video!!👍I gotta check those out, I play tounge block backrattle, etc,my favorite so far is hohner ms series, key of g, keep rocking brother 👍😎
Hi Jonah. loving the content thankyou.. may i ask if the backing track available for ending you play. best regards Warner
Never heard of them.
Sounds good.
I'm about to hit send on the Arkia site got my Shopping Cart all loaded.. just getting what keys i want sorted out. Thanks!!
I just bought one, still checking it out. Is it the only harp without hole numbers? If so, why?
Jonah, maybe the Suzuki Manji reeds/plates would be good alternatives to the Kongsheng? Your Signature harp has a very smooth detailed sound. Nice playing!
Very Good
Hello. where is the Arkia harmonica made? what brand and where can i buy it?
Inice review. Didn’t know this brand. I would have seen a test with the Suzuki Olive. I think there are more alike then the Hohners you used.
I am brand new to harmonica playing, but I must say, that song was awsome.
Nice tone
I would buy one
Do the have f#?
For me, I consider the spacing between holes in the comb; preferably a Hohner over a Lee Oskar.
The best bending harp I've owned was a 1920's Marine Band. I assume it was the makeup of the "brass" in the reeds.
Cool harp, man!
Good job
Where and how do I find a reliable Harmonica Tech ???? I'm in New York ? Love to find a Good One ✌️
please do a review of the Yonberg Harmonica. Unique look.
Amazing. Its the man behind the machine.
I enjoyed your video, what one would you recommend for a beginner? Would you get one of this for a first time player? It sounds good.
If you want some thing high end, this is a good Harp. If you have the money, I would say, it’s a good investment. You only need one good harmonica to learn how to play. If you want to save some money, and still get something really quality, they have a slightly cheaper model that I mentioned in this video. Otherwise, I would say get a hohner special 20. They are pretty good, good quality control. They don’t wow me like this harmonica did, but if you’re just getting started, you might not know the difference.
I’ve played the Signature, it is very nicely made and plays well. That being said, for the money, it would be worthwhile to look at Blue Moon Harmonicas. I’ve only played one of them, but from the moment you play it you know it’s the best harmonica. The stuff Tom Halchek does is absolute magic.
I’ll check them out at some point. I have a few of their combs which are very nice. I would expect this Harmonica to be similar to most custom harps as far a playability, but those can really vary in price, from $150-$300+
@@HarmonicaRevolution I’d say it ranks just below the custom harps I’ve tried, which is only a Spiers and a Blue moon. Compared to a regular bone stock Hohner, the Arkia has better response and overall playability, but not quite what I’d expect for $150 considering you can find really good custom harps for close to that. Not to mention the ongoing customer support you’ll get from a good customizer. Not trying to sway anyones opinion, just mentioning it as an option for folks to look at. All in all the Arkia is a very fine instrument and by far the best factory out of the box harp.
@@HarmonicaRevolution I'd like to try one from Blue Moon too, but they're quoting over 6 months + to get one. Arkia usually has shipped within a week.
You are right sir. With respect, I'm skeptical. These prices are high. I took the bait on a Yonberg and it's mediocre. Rocking Ron has a custom 1847 with Zajac comb for less. Mr. Fox here, has excellent instructional videos and materials, give your premium money to him. Then again, what do I know, I'm just a man with a harp habit.
@@regorRegor have yet to hear good things about Yonberg vs their prices. For the average player, none of the $75+ harps are going to help much, it’s not until you start to learn nuances and more advanced techniques that the precise setup will benefit the user. Are they better than $40-50 harps, in almost every way… will the average player benefit from the extra cost? Emphatically No. The one thing to consider about the RR’s Seydel vs the ARK, is the Seydel does not include reed gapping setup, only premium parts.
They should be great out of the box for the price tbh
👍👍👍
So I remember about 30 years ago I discovered Lee Oscar harps...I felt the same way as you about how easy they were to play and bend. What are your thoughts on Lee Oscar? I never hear anything about them.
They are just OK. I prefer special 20s over Lee Oscars, and this harp is a huge step ahead of either.
In want to order an Arkia signature . They evidently will modify the harp for you. Would you recommend that I request they adjust the 1 through 7 holes for over blows and under draws? I think I’m looking and about a month before it will arrive.
Not a bad idea. Those were the weakest on all the Arkia's I've played, so a little extra work is probably wise.
Hi Jonah, can you make a video covering the adjustments to reeds etc. When you say "spacing" I don't know what you mean. Also tuning reeds which I know can be tricky. What is the best way to do that without bending or breaking them? Maybe you have already covered this.
This goes over reed adjustments: ua-cam.com/video/UPI9Hh5JMyk/v-deo.html
Overblow adjustments are the same, just more meticulous… really gotta make sure both of blow reed and draw reed gaps are tiny. As far as tuning reeds, I don’t have a video on that yet.
@@HarmonicaRevolution thanks for the reply.
I always like seeing new brands enter the space. Competition is great for the industry.
My best OTB harp is my Kongsheng Solist. I'm not a great OB player, but right out of the box the 4-6 gave me stable overblows. A close second is my Seydel 1847 Noble I got for 16:23, on a custom Blue Moon comb, which OBs 4-6, with 4 and 5 being stable even with my wonky OB technique.
/I struggled for a long time with OBs. Finally, a friend of mine sent me one he'd set up and I started to get them. The next breakthrough was learning the hiss method instead of the straw method.
I didn’t realize that I use a “hiss” tongue shape to play ob/od. It didn’t occur to me until I read this lol
Is this harmonica worth the price if you're not going to play many overblows?
In terms of hitting normal draw and blow bends easily does it out perform an 1847 or a Crossover?
I think it’s better. That said, it feels very similar to a crossover. If you already have crossovers and really like them, I don’t think you’ll find a huge upgrade with this harmonica if you don’t overblow.
Jonah. Me again. That sounds like a fantastic harp. The $157 model is too much for me, but I might consider the cheaper one. Thanks for bringing this to our attention! One question about gapping for overbends. I know I have to tighten (narrow) the reed gaps for holes 4, 5 and 6 to better get overblows. But what about the draw reeds in each of those holes? Do they need to be adjusted, too? If so, how narrow do those gaps typically need to be? Thanks for the help. BTW, I agree with other commenters that your original piece at the end if this video is great!
Both the blow and draw reeds need to be adjusted so the gaps are as small as possible without choking the reed out. Usually the blow reeds are the biggest issue, but if either are leaky, then you can’t overblow
@@HarmonicaRevolution I figured that might be the case: adjust both reeds in each slot. Got it! Thanks, again, Jonah for your advice.
@@atvalleau it also helps to flat-mate draw plate with the comb, and slot embossing to increase responsiveness and ease of “popping” into an ob/od. Focus on getting the blow reeds as closely gapped as you can without choking under firm playing pressure.
Jonah do you know which reed plates from Kongsheng the Origin uses?
Pretty sure it’s the Solist
I was so impressed with your video that I bought a set of these - the basic model which is just without the Crossover reeds. They took a very long time to arrive. They sounded great, but one of the G key arrived with a blocked note 7 reed. I was really disappointed at this as I have never bought a harmonica in such condition at any price point - and I have over 100. I have to take it apart and see what I can do because Arkia was so sluggish in processing and filling my order that I have no confidence in any customer service response. I don't want to wait half a year, or never.
Reeds gets stuck, it happens. Try blowing and drawing pretty aggressively, or blow bending if you can. It’s totally normal and can happen on any Harmonica.
@@HarmonicaRevolution I've been playing since I was ten (I'm 71) and I have never had a new harmonica arrive with a stuck reed. But since these have "valves" it could be a different situation. I have tried being a "blowhard" (haha). I think I have to take it apart. Have you taken one apart? If you have, I'd like to hear your report and maybe see some photos. It's an expensive harmonica and I would hate to damage it while trying to repair it.
@@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244 it's just like a normal harmonica when you take it apart, but the blow reeds are covered by the plate that's attached on the back. You can still access them to adjust them like normal.
I don’t understand the term overblow what does that mean?
its an advanced technique that let's you play previously unaccessible chromatic notes
Thanks, Jonah - love your videos. I've got a ton of Crossovers. Could I buy the Arkia Original and swap out the Kongsheng reed plates for one of my Crossovers?
Yeah, you should be able to do that. If you try it, let me know how it works.!
Hi Scott, I don't think you can swap the Kongsheng reed plates for Crossover ones on the Origin. Don't hesitate to contact Arkia to check with them
@@laurentvigouroux6217 I agree. Contact Arkia!
They’re super responsive, send them a message on FB messenger.
I have an ARKIA Origin model and the reed plate is the same length as that of the Crossover, however the Crossover plate is not as "deep" (length from mouth end to back end) as that of the ARKIA origin, so I doubt that the other parts (comb, RSS, etc) will fit. I am not even going to try it. I'm going to order the Signature.
Sometimes I wish I was still performing, then I see what harps cost now. I retired back in’94. All I can say is, holy cr@p.
When Jonah says a harmonica is great, it's practically gospel! I've tried countless harmonicas, and, in my humble opinion, the Crossover is the one for me. The only thing I'd change about it are those coverplates; they could be a tad broader. Today, I caved and ordered the Arkia Signature. I'm honestly afraid I'll like it too much and end up wanting it in all the other keys as well…
Sounds great but nearly aud200 here in Australia
Are they better than a Promaster? Ultimate question.
I’m a really big fan of these harps, they play great straight out of the box and bend really well, bit expensive but no more so than a Seydel, though no steel reeds ! Why not at very nearly £80 The company are great to do business with but they have to do something urgently about delivery from France to the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Very nearly 7 weeks from order day to delivery day is just far too long to wait. But they do sound sweet and are one of the easiest harps I’ve had the pleasure of playing.
7 Weeks? That's long. For the record, every order I have made in the US took less than a week.
@@HarmonicaRevolution Even Arkia have agreed that they will have to find another way to deliver to the UK, my latest purchase was made on the 6 June and it eventually arrived on the 11 July 😳 You know the real issue is that I’m hooked on these harps ! I’ve not had a bad one, ever. They all play pretty much straight out of the box and sound so sweet I forgive them every time. Not the experience I’ve had with Seydel products, some are great others can be truly awful and at the price point that is unacceptable. Have you tried Polar harps ? I’m told they are quite good but not tried one yet, American manufacturers I believe ! Thanks for the vids man I wish UA-cam and someone like you had been about when I first started playing but then I grew up with Larry Adler 😂 Stay safe fella.
@@lordelpus4283 I really dislike the Polars and the Torpedos. Bad harps, in my opinion. They don't sound great, and even the premium one feels cheap and have sharp edges. Hard pass from me.
@@HarmonicaRevolution You see ! Another good piece of information and not just for this old chap. What would I do without ya fella 😉 I’m a real fan of Arkia, Seydel , Honner and to a lesser degree Lee Oskar’s. I won’t be ordering anything from Arkia until after their vacation period so next attempt will be in August when hopefully they will be able to offer a better delivery service, otherwise I’ll be coming to you for my future orders ! Bet you could obtain and send them faster than Arkia 😂
hello@@lordelpus4283, I do remember the problems we had on your order. We've experienced a long delay on few orders to the UK last month. I'm happy to tell you that we've changed the shipping partner for the UK, and so far it seems to be much better. We don't have much experience for the time being, but our 4 last orders for the UK were delivered within a week.
Best regards, thanks for your patience, and have a great harmonical time!
Harley Benton/Thoman does a set of various keys for about *80$. yeah for the whole set ?!? please consider giving these your critical eye and ear and rest . Thanks for your cool reviews . Im going to start playing due to your vids .So i will keep you up up to speed .
Everyone Talks abt 'overblows' but could someone please explain what this IS, a quick exp. would work! -Al
Overblows are additional chromatic notes that are inaccessible without a very particular technique and a harmonica that enables that note. This would be a harmonica that you would buy to make that technique easier to execute. You could also do reed set up on your own, but your results may vary.
IL faut essayer le Yonberg aussi
When I was a kid around 10 I messed around with the harmonica. I was never very good but I had fun. My Mom bought me two Hohner Goliath models , one in C and the other in G. I can’t believe how expensive these harmonicas are today. I also have a Hohner Chromatic. All of these harmonicas are now almost 70 years old. I loved the song at the end, it was great.
Excellent review. My only concern w/Harmonicas these days is that I'd like to know if the ones who bring a "plastic" comb and/or a Reed Stabilization System (RSS), like this ARKIA, are made with PFAS. That's why I prefer a wood comb!
Well, I don't like a harmonica that's too harsh sounding. And yes I like the blues, but what about single notes?
It’s too bad that there is only one company for those, like me, who don’t use richter or richter-like tunings, and Arkia doesn’t cater to that market.
They offer Richter, Lydien / Country Tuning and Paddy Richter as standard options when ordering. If you need a different tuning I'd ask them.
Hey Jonah I bought an Arkia Signature is it bad to wet them or play in the shower with them? I really like the sound when they’re wet and they seem easier to play. I play the Lee Oskar harp wet but the reeds went out a lot. Now I have a lot of Lee Oskars lying around that I don’t play.
I have no idea. I would use a cheaper harp to use when wet
French of course
The post adjustment over blows didn’t sound any better… But I don’t think it’s the harp! No offense!
Marine band is the classic harp, all of the greats played them, I personally don’t see myself buying anything but hohner
It's expensive but worth the money buy the time you buy a cheap tin sandwhich
I can’t wait to get one🥰🥰🥰 .... I want to hear the upper range twisty high notes
Good but too $ where I live.
I was very excited when my order from France arrived. And then I was very disappointed when I played the harp, and found it unplayable! Had three major dead spots that no matter how much I tried would not even make a sound! I been playing harp for about 10 years and have a good collection, none of them even the cheap ones were DOA out of the box! Not impressed! Going to contact them and see if they will send a replacement!
Sorry you had a bad experience, I hope they replace it for you
@@HarmonicaRevolution So they got back to me, and wanted me to make a video of each hole being played. I did that, and now I have to pay out of pocket the return shipping, and wait for them to refund the cost, instead of just sending me a prepaid shipping label. I want an exchange for one that plays right, not a refund. Guess it will be another month now?
@@HumbleHeartMinistry Sorry friend! My experience has been good. Duds among harmonicas are always possible, and at least they are working with you. If you buy a harp from the big brands, you are usually just out of your money with no returns possible.
3D printed comb!!!?? yaa ill pass, i mean with that price tag we can get a guitar,, jesus
You look like you escaped from the Amish
How dare you! we Amish round here
I do not believe. Completely unknown company. I would wait for a rating from famous harmonica stars. The price is unreal. the sound is quite sharp. You didn't convince me
The fact that it has 3d printed parts is enough to convince me it’s garbage.
Overpriced gimmick. There are lots of great out of the box harps. For you to say this is THE BEST just makes me wonder how much this company paid you to say that.
Arkias are harp rolls royce.
Do you still like your super expensive harmonica?
Yes, it's great!
It’s French, you know.
Et les meilleurs Français de France !
Chinese reed plates? No.
Again too expensive and I don't like the sound you get. Your OB's are out quite a bit,
Out the box all OB's OD's work best ion an 1896 MB you didn't even review that. The playing you do at the end again, not in tune. Crossovers for example are nothing compared to an 1896 , bamboo comb loses a lot of tone and multiphonics don't . sit right with bamboo.Just for the record I have been a session player over 40 years.
Very good amateur but zero, I mean zero soul. Really bad player. France should sue. No one talks about that brand, as he said...for a reason. Both versions are way too expensive. Stay in port. Great presentation of a less-than-average overpriced potato.
As you know, harmonicas don't last forever. So if a reed goes totally out of tune, what are you going to do.......spend $157 for another harmonica?
Hi Barry. I would just get new crossover reed plates. May have to do additional setup, but you still get the benefits of the comb design and air stopper.
Jonah, no matter how much you talk the Arkia is too much money. You can talk all you want but you’re polishing an expensive turd here, I would not endorse them. Plus it’s made by the French. No thanks.
They use 3D printed parts😂
It might play like a God but I’m not spending that kind of cash on something with FDM printed parts. Hopefully that’s not PLA😅