Hi there from Germany. Fine lessons you give, makes fun to learn how to play harmonica. I live just 20 km away from the Hohner factory and they have a fantastic museum over there, not only tons of different harmonicas but also a lot of other instruments the produced over the last 100 years. Keep on rockin´! :-)
That was one of the most upbeat, positive reviews of ANYTHING I have ever seen. I already bought a Special 20 last night, but if I hadn't I would be getting one today after this review.
Just got a Special 20 for Christmas! I am brand new (and I mean BRAND NEW) to playing but so far it seems very forgiving. Your lessons have helped a great deal too, Luke! I’m really enjoying my Special 20!
I've played Marine Band for decades and tried a Special 20 several months ago and was blown away... all, for the reasons you mentioned especially bending and responsiveness. A slight breeze across the holes and the instrument sings. Thanks, Luke, great job as always.
Ordered this just now. Coming in next week so I can start playing. Never ever touched harmonica before so counting on your lessons! Nice work with all these lessons!
Great! Watched some of your videos and ordered a Special 20 this morning. Love your energy man. Very good reviews, straight to the point (no BS, as you say). Subscribed. Thank you!
I learned to play on SP20s and pretty much agree with the review. The one thing I’ll add is that if you like these, you should try the Hohner Rocket. It’s basically an updated SP20. All the corners are rounded and it just looks more polished. Next to a Rocket, the SP20 looks almost like a prototype. I ordered one in A and liked it so much I then ordered a full set.
Hey Ralph - I just played a Rocket for the first time recently, and I agree with you. They’re fricken awesome! Probably my favorite Hohhner harmonica. Rock on, sir!
Hi! I have A, C and D SP20s, and what I did on all of them is to take them apart and polish the comb, all the edges and specially the corners. Within 10 minutes you have a really comfortable harmonica. With a nail polishing file you can make the plastic shine again, but I prefer the look of a matt finish. My next replacement will be a Rocket , though. What do you think about the larger holes?
Pau Perrim, that did take some getting used to and it’s the reason I don’t really play the SP20s anymore. I don’t want to confuse myself with two different hole sizes. After a while, though, I stopped noticing the larger size and am now completely used to it. The larger size, however, actually works. It is much easier to draw and blow on a Rocket than a Sp20. On balance, I like the larger size even though it took a while to become accustomed to them.
@@theraven6836 Nice!! I am at that point where I can play a clean scale, but it still sounds "dirty" when I try to do a fast solo... I think it is the perfect time to give it a try. Thanks!
I use Special 20s almost exclusively. I like the sound and tone and are very easy to bend. They are also easy to take apart and clean. The plastic comb is great as it won't swell when exposed to water. I own two of each except for the B and E as I don't use those much. There is nothing worse than having a reed go bad when your gigging so a spare is essential. When a reed goes bad I order a new set of reed plates instead of buying a new harmonica. I wait until I need a bunch of them then order them all at the same time to save on shipping costs. The reed plates are quite easy to replace and I like saving money and not having to throw out the whole harmonica which I find is wasteful. They will eventually wear out but the trick to having the reeds last long is to not play too hard as that places unnecessary stress on the reeds. Playing how to bend while playing softly takes time and practice but it will improve tone. Many great players do not play hard even if it seems so. Let the equipment do the work by turning up the amp if you need to be heard. Just remember to not start playing too hard or your sound level will increase too much. That being said, playing softly for accompaniment and then a bit louder to solo is desirable. My two cents :)
I'm a Special 20 guy! Good, solid instrument at a decent price. It may not be flashy, but it's got it where it counts...and I can't see it when I'm playing, anyway!
I bought one of these a few days ago. Should arrive some time next week. I already own a Belcanto, but I'm very excited and really looking forward to playing it. Great video!
I've been playing like 2 months, getting decent at single hole, playing songs with tabs, etc. I had a $10 fender and $10 Hoerner. I could not for the life of me get the 1 thru 3 holes to do much of anything. I upgraded to the special 20's, got the set of five for like $190. It is so worth it! Guys, new to playing, think it's your fault you can't get it sounding right, especially 1-3? It isn't you I promise, it's your harmonica. I can't believe the difference having these has made, all the mistakes I assumed were all me, nope, cheap crap harps were the main problem. It is an incredible difference. Just saying...ty. Man, I should be getting paid for this. Cya
I think a lot of that's luck when you buy cheap.. especially if it's a cheap one that laid around for any length of time unused. I could actually get some really nice sounds out of the lower 5 on my 10$ hohner bluesband (one of them that I ended up with) and I learned the draw bends pretty well on it. However the upper notes were extremely unreliable and my new special 20 is a dream to play compared to that thing overall.
@@funkencool yeah if you know how to gap and adjust the reeds you can get a half decent sound out of the bluesband, but only have decent nothing exceptional. Still a decent starter for like 2 weeks before getting something better like this or marineband or blues harp.
I watched this video just after ordering one, lol. I was drawn to the harmonica as a kid and had a cheap one but it seemed very difficult to play. So, several decades later, I decided to get back to it and the Special 20 in G sounds like the right one for me to help get that melancholy tone I love so much.
When I'm able to take up harmonica and teach myself to play it, I've already settled on the Special 20. I hope to get one very soon to be able to start playing, within the next few days (my local music store has Special 20s in all keys, according to their website, including in C, so I'm good)
ive bought the same harmonica :) in my country its even cheaper than 50-60$. got into it harmonicas many years ago from black sabbaths song the wizard :) now i finally decided to buy one and try to play something and hopefuly one day ill play the wizard :)
Thanks for the great video! Could you help me choosing between Special 20 and Golden Melody? This will be a gift for my husband (beginner) and I think he would fall in love with the retro design of Golden Memory, but is it more easy to learn and play with Special 20 than with Golden Memory? Btw he’s playing guitar and loves rock, blues ect. (Which harp and key (C?) goes alongside the acoustic guitar?) I’m confused and need your help asap please! 🌸
All right, good looking out wifey! Golden Melody is just easy as Special 20, so go for it! Definitely Key of C is what you want to start on. Aloha, Luke
I'm a beginner player and I started on this harp in the key of C. I think you're on the right track already, before you've even played. It's been a great thing for me, I hope you love it as well
Hey man I’m going to buy this harp. I know absolutely nothing about harmonica but some of my favourite John Mayer songs are played with one. I’ve been playing guitar for 2 and half years now and am never going to put it down. Any tips on where I should learn harmonica online? Thanks
Sounds like a great choice, which key would be the best choice for playing alongside guitar. Depends on the key of the song, of course, but just in general which key would you recommend.
Dave - yes, you answered your own question in that it depends on the key of the song. If you're wanting to do blues in E, the A harmonica is your axe. A lot of folk stuff like Neil Young and Bob Dylan is nice in G in 1st position - G harmonica. Hope that helps! Aloha, Luke
Hey Isaac - well I’m playing in second position, and I’m bending. Perhaps this video might help if you haven’t seen it yet: ua-cam.com/video/JNSfYblG1oY/v-deo.html
@@Harmonicacom Hey Luke, I just wanted to say thanks for the advice and I can bend really well on the harmonica. I am having fun with it and my father got me a case of 7 harmonicas but each one is worth cheap and the quality doesn’t last long. They are in the keys of C, G, D, F, Bb, E, and A. I bought me a Midnight Blue in the key of A, a Special 20 in the key of C, a Rocket Amp in the key of Bb and my Dad bought me a Lee Oskar Natural Minor in the key of Am for my birthday. I am looking forward to getting a Crossover and a Seydel Session Steel and getting them in the keys of G and Ab, and maybe getting other keys like a Rocket Low Harmonica. Next I’ll learn how to do a flutter sound playing the harmonica.
Hey Luke how are you ? The end part of the video I mean the last tune was great including bending ..can you please give us the tab? so that we can practice . Take care bro.
Richard - the deep relaxed mouth position is the first big key. I demonstrate it in this video: ua-cam.com/video/v4mDMJzsnoU/v-deo.html After that, I recommend lifting that back of the tongue up against the hard palette like you’re saying “Kk.” Hope that helps!
I like the ingraved labels anyway because when they're painted on the key labels will wear out I've had that problem before I give the engraved labels a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ of 5 ⭐️"s
@Harmonicacom Sorry, my name's not matthew, but thank you. I'm still waiting on my horner special 20 from amazon, but I can't wait to get my hands on it
Thanks a lot for your review . I watched many time . But I still don't know which one I will order between Hohner Special 20 or Lee Osca for key of G and A . Could you give me your opinion , please !
SP20 is my first choice and therefor I've got all of them. The lack comfort of because of the sharp corners could perhelps be adjusted by rounding them yourself a bit. Bending is nice and easy, but I like the sound and tone of a wooden comb more, like for instance my blues harps and marinebands which were my first purchases.
Hey, Roland I’m with you all the way. Sharp corners are super-minor, bending is great, and wood combs have that classic old bluesy tone. The sound, well…. Woody! Lol.
@@Harmonicacom Yeah try to round/shape those sharp corners of the SP20 if it really bothers you. Use a file or sanding paper to smoothen those edges. Can't do no harm.
Hello from Edinburgh, Scotland. Enjoyed your review. I'm a professional musician and have been using Hohner Big River Harps for 20 odd years but have started to become slightly disillusioned with the quality. They sometimes go out of tune almost immediately. Is this because they have outsourced some makes to China? Feel ready to move up to the Special 20 and will pay the extra for the right type if it means it will last. What is your opinion?
Aloha Graeme from Scotland! YES, I think you will be SO HAPPY with what you find with playability, tone, and longevity on the Special 20. Well worth the extra money. Keep me posted...
Hi there, thank you for making this videos for us. Want to ask, which gift you recommend me to buy as a gift to a friend? I was between the hohner special 20 or the golden melody
Special 20! Depending on the friend, there's also collector's item pink-combed one they released in October for breast cancer awareness month with portion of proceeds going to cancer research. You can see it at Rockin' Rons.
It's easy on your lips, sounds great, corners could be better. If these have not changed in quality they are great. Mine is old, still sounds great. Never gave it a thought on looks.
Thanks so much for your great reviews ❤ I was wondering if it’s possible to make a review some Suzuki harmonicas especially the Pure Harp that stands out from the rest maybe even the Sub30 would be great and not to forget the wilder tuning harp, Akai also. :) the Pure Harp first though:) Thanks again!! I wish you would basically do all the harps in the world - it’s a great sound and presentation!! Much ❤
Hi teacher I hope you are well 1. Is Cheromatix SCX64 - 16hole suitable for someone who wants to play classical music? (like Beethoven, Bach, etc...) 2. Do you think SCX64 is more suitable for classical music or Larry Adler 16 holes?
I recently ordered s20 on Amazon and it came with a different packaging and a sticker with a "Made in China" on the box. The code for free lesson works though...
Is there a video somewhere where i can see what to expect from different holes? I had to order a replacement because the 9 and 10 holes were very inconsistent on blow and draw... now the replacement has the same problem but also the 2 draw sounds like a dying duck. I'm willing to admit user error but I'm also trying everything I'm seeing online about puckering etc
Yeah, it's not the harp! 🤣 Don't you worry, this is normal problem that most beginners experience! 👌🏼 These are the tips for a getting good -2: 1.) Let gravity lower your jaw so that it's totally relaxed and in a nice "aw" vowel shape, your teeth should be far apart from each other 2.) Keep the back of your tongue down, like it is when you yawn. Make sure it's not in the "Kk" zone (how your tongue is when you say a "Kk" consonant.) 3.) Nice steady, GENTLE, airflow. Most beginners (and many intermediate and advanced players) use WAY to much pressure. Be patient with it. Until it get better for you, when needed, you can always play 3 instead of -2 (since they're the same note.) Hope that helps! 😎 Aloha, Luke
Got special 20 in c as a starter some reviews say they dont last long is this because harsh playing or practicing as beginner . How abt rocket saw review on resonsness others say very responsive . Regular rocket / or amp as other choice ?
Well chromatic harmonica is the type of instrument most often used for jazz, which I talk about here: www.harmonica.com/exploring-the-3-types-of-harmonica/ It's great for blues, soul, gospel, country....
No, that's country tuning! You definitely wanna start with standard tuning! (You can check out country tuning later, but I don't recommend starting with it.) But yes, Special 20 is GREAT for beginners as I mention here: www.harmonica.com/which-harmonica-to-buy/
@@Harmonicacom thank you so much for your reactivity !That was very helpful! Yes i saw it already , ill stick to the special 20 progressive then, you are doing a great job!
Hey Luke, you mentioned in your Lee Oskar review that players had told you that they were bad mustache grabbers. How about these Special 20s, are they also mustache grabbers??
@@hugochen303 they are an upgrade to the special 20 , super easy to play , very comfy and easy bends . special 20 (stock) Rocket (turbo) Rocket Amp ( Nitro ) lol try one , I have 3 , A Bb, and C. The A has a great sound.
Hi I'm a beginner from Thailand,thank you for make this videos for us. But I want to know this "Hohner Special 20" and "Hohner The Beatles Signature" it different or not? Which one can bending better and easier? Thank you very much🙏🏻😅
Just opened up my first Easttop Blues and was impressed. If you're on a tight budget or you're just wanting to dip your toes in the water, the Easttop is perfectly acceptable!
In the Hohner line I'd say the Rocket. But it's not my favorite because I find it to be slightly less responsive than I like. I think the Seydel's shine in the "loudest" category from the perspective you can blow and draw with all your friggin might and those stainless steel reeds will take the licking and keep on ticking! If you wanna play REALLY HARD, you might consider Seydel. My favorite of there line is the Seydel 1847 CLASSIC. Rock on.
Marine Bands are the old school classic so if you’re going for “old” “woody” sound, it’s worth considering, BUT are more painful on the mouth because of wood comb. Special 20 and Golden Melody have plastic combs so they’re much more comfy on the lips. Special 20 is tuned to sound better on chords, and Golden Melody is tuned to sound better on single notes. They’re all equally great harps, but those are the strengths of each. Hope that helps!
The special 20 is an excellent harmonica, but you have to be lucky to get a good piece. My first special 20 had a great sound, especially the second hole had a great sound, and was easy to play and bend it. The next piece ( I'm comparing harmonicas of the same key of course) didn't play as tinga nice on the second hole. Yes, I still played it, but with much more effort and therefore not as fast..I bought a hohner service kit and learned reed offsetting, but to no avail. Eventually I found out that the bend of the end of the second reed plays a major role and you can't set that yourself... With the dealers there is no talk about this problem, everyone says the same thing: You have to learn to play the second hole, it takes practice... I know that of course, but the main thing is the differences in the setting and the shape of the second reed... Does anyone have a similar experience?
Nope, all the Special 20's I've bought have been great on -2. You coulda got a bad one. But I agree that most problems that people have with the -2 is technique related more than harmonica related. Thanks for sharing!
I don't feel like my skills have improved much since getting my Special 20 a few weeks ago HOWEVER, I did run some errands Saturday without it in my pocket and felt naked all day. So, there's that. Lol
From what I understand, there are no significant differences in the way they play and sound. I’m reviewing a brand new one in this vid, so if you buy a new one, you’ll be playing they same type I’m reviewing.
It's a great harmonica. I rank it 4.4/5 stars. I personally like the Crossover (expensive) and the Golden Melody better from Hohner, but the Blues Harp is great if you want a wooden comb. (I prefer playing plastic combs.)
Hi broo! Please answer me. I will bay this harmonicas ! 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 - Hohnera special 20 C for learning. - Hohner CX-12 C Tenor Harmonica: for future (after learning). - Seydel Big Six: for time pass in car or travel or...... Give me idea please. Thank you very much broo... 😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁
Im considerin Blues Harp , Lee Oskar , And Special 20. Which one would u prefer?? Plus ive been usin Pro harp of Hohner. Do you think its much different from Special 20?
I've never played the Pro Harp, but it looks like the cover plates don't fully cover the reed plates, which means you'll probably find the Lee Oskar or SP 20 a little more comfy on the lips. My personal fav is the Lee Oskar, but The special 20 is great too! I'd go for one of them over the Blues Harp. Hope that helps!
Just got one - finally. Really impressed with the sound and the feel of it. Yes, the sharp corners could have been rounded at the factory, by design, rather than leaving me to do it with a file but it was 5 minutes well spent and to my eye it's no better or worse looking than the other Hohners. Which makes it 5/5.
hello, your model is the 560PBXC? what is the difference between it and the 560BXC? (progressive vs classic) according to the video v=6SAZxMMgdFE "progressive" is inferior... last question is there a difference with the M560016X model (found on amazon with this number)? thx
Hey there - the progressive is not inferior to the classic. The only real difference is the artwork on the cover plate, and the reed plate has an extra set of holes so that it can be interchangeable with the Rocket (which has it's screws closer to the front of the comb) and the Golden Melody. (The Rocket, the Golden Melody, and The Special 20 are all part of Hohner's Progressive line of harmonicas.) In 2014 when they first made the switch, the reed plates were gapped higher, and that's where you get people talking about that the classics were better. But Hohner quickly got that corrected. So there is no longer any real difference in sound or playability between the progressive and the classic. This info is coming straight from the horses mouth! Hope that helps! Aloha, Luke
SP 20 is a bit better in tone and especially playability (more comfy on the lips) than the Blues Harp. If you already have a Blues Harp, not to worry, you're good to go! BUT, if you're considering buying a Blues Harp or a SP 20, I'd definitely go with the SP 20!
Hi there from Germany. Fine lessons you give, makes fun to learn how to play harmonica. I live just 20 km away from the Hohner factory and they have a fantastic museum over there, not only tons of different harmonicas but also a lot of other instruments the produced over the last 100 years. Keep on rockin´! :-)
Wow, cool! I’d love to see that some day. You keep on rockin’ too, my friend!
lucky man
Could you get me maybe one of the good ones they make?
I must see it sometime!
@@Harmonicacom Hey man, have you visited already?
That was one of the most upbeat, positive reviews of ANYTHING I have ever seen. I already bought a Special 20 last night, but if I hadn't I would be getting one today after this review.
Right on! Great harp for sure!
Just got a Special 20 for Christmas! I am brand new (and I mean BRAND NEW) to playing but so far it seems very forgiving. Your lessons have helped a great deal too, Luke! I’m really enjoying my Special 20!
AWESOME.
How're you going 5 months on?
I've played Marine Band for decades and tried a Special 20 several months ago and was blown away... all, for the reasons you mentioned especially bending and responsiveness. A slight breeze across the holes and the instrument sings. Thanks, Luke, great job as always.
Great harmonica!!! Special 20 !
Thanks Robert! Yeah, I’d take a Special 20 over a Marine Band any day purely for comfort on my lips.
Happy Harpin’!
Ordered this just now. Coming in next week so I can start playing. Never ever touched harmonica before so counting on your lessons! Nice work with all these lessons!
Woo hoo. So stoked for you. Rock on! 😎
Thanks for the review, my special 20 will be coming in tomorrow, can’t wait. Thanks for all your quidence, your teaching are the best 🙏🏾
Right on big congrats on the new harp. Thanks for the kind words. Glad you're digging the vids. ROCK ON. 😎
Great! Watched some of your videos and ordered a Special 20 this morning. Love your energy man. Very good reviews, straight to the point (no BS, as you say). Subscribed. Thank you!
Thanks Liam. Good for you, my friend. Hope you love the Special 20! Thanks for the kind words. Keep us posted how you like it.
I learned to play on SP20s and pretty much agree with the review. The one thing I’ll add is that if you like these, you should try the Hohner Rocket. It’s basically an updated SP20. All the corners are rounded and it just looks more polished. Next to a Rocket, the SP20 looks almost like a prototype. I ordered one in A and liked it so much I then ordered a full set.
Hey Ralph - I just played a Rocket for the first time recently, and I agree with you. They’re fricken awesome! Probably my favorite Hohhner harmonica. Rock on, sir!
Hi! I have A, C and D SP20s, and what I did on all of them is to take them apart and polish the comb, all the edges and specially the corners. Within 10 minutes you have a really comfortable harmonica. With a nail polishing file you can make the plastic shine again, but I prefer the look of a matt finish. My next replacement will be a Rocket , though. What do you think about the larger holes?
Pau Perrim, that did take some getting used to and it’s the reason I don’t really play the SP20s anymore. I don’t want to confuse myself with two different hole sizes. After a while, though, I stopped noticing the larger size and am now completely used to it. The larger size, however, actually works. It is much easier to draw and blow on a Rocket than a Sp20. On balance, I like the larger size even though it took a while to become accustomed to them.
@@theraven6836 Nice!! I am at that point where I can play a clean scale, but it still sounds "dirty" when I try to do a fast solo... I think it is the perfect time to give it a try. Thanks!
@@pauperrim8946 I think you'll like it.
I use Special 20s almost exclusively. I like the sound and tone and are very easy to bend. They are also easy to take apart and clean. The plastic comb is great as it won't swell when exposed to water. I own two of each except for the B and E as I don't use those much. There is nothing worse than having a reed go bad when your gigging so a spare is essential. When a reed goes bad I order a new set of reed plates instead of buying a new harmonica. I wait until I need a bunch of them then order them all at the same time to save on shipping costs. The reed plates are quite easy to replace and I like saving money and not having to throw out the whole harmonica which I find is wasteful. They will eventually wear out but the trick to having the reeds last long is to not play too hard as that places unnecessary stress on the reeds. Playing how to bend while playing softly takes time and practice but it will improve tone. Many great players do not play hard even if it seems so. Let the equipment do the work by turning up the amp if you need to be heard. Just remember to not start playing too hard or your sound level will increase too much. That being said, playing softly for accompaniment and then a bit louder to solo is desirable. My two cents :)
Right on Claude! Thanks for sharing. 🤙🏼
I'm a Special 20 guy! Good, solid instrument at a decent price. It may not be flashy, but it's got it where it counts...and I can't see it when I'm playing, anyway!
I bought one of these a few days ago. Should arrive some time next week. I already own a Belcanto, but I'm very excited and really looking forward to playing it.
Great video!
Ooh, exciting! Hope you’re having fun playing it!
I've been playing like 2 months, getting decent at single hole, playing songs with tabs, etc. I had a $10 fender and $10 Hoerner. I could not for the life of me get the 1 thru 3 holes to do much of anything. I upgraded to the special 20's, got the set of five for like $190. It is so worth it! Guys, new to playing, think it's your fault you can't get it sounding right, especially 1-3? It isn't you I promise, it's your harmonica. I can't believe the difference having these has made, all the mistakes I assumed were all me, nope, cheap crap harps were the main problem. It is an incredible difference. Just saying...ty. Man, I should be getting paid for this. Cya
I think a lot of that's luck when you buy cheap.. especially if it's a cheap one that laid around for any length of time unused. I could actually get some really nice sounds out of the lower 5 on my 10$ hohner bluesband (one of them that I ended up with) and I learned the draw bends pretty well on it. However the upper notes were extremely unreliable and my new special 20 is a dream to play compared to that thing overall.
@@funkencool yeah if you know how to gap and adjust the reeds you can get a half decent sound out of the bluesband, but only have decent nothing exceptional. Still a decent starter for like 2 weeks before getting something better like this or marineband or blues harp.
I have a special 20 I love it! Way better than my marine band. Thanks
I hear you Robert. Way more comfy!
I watched this video just after ordering one, lol. I was drawn to the harmonica as a kid and had a cheap one but it seemed very difficult to play. So, several decades later, I decided to get back to it and the Special 20 in G sounds like the right one for me to help get that melancholy tone I love so much.
Congrats Michael! Hope you love it! Consider buy a C harmonica great for learning - all beginner vids are in C.
@@Harmonicacom I just got a C in the mail today! I have an A coming too; both East Top. :D
Good review and demo. Very concise, thanks.
Thanks Douglas. My pleasure!
Great review!!! Especially because I bought a Hohner Special 20 a couple of months ago and I am still at the beginning with bending. 😁
Right on, Aluzio. You’ve got a great one for working on bends, man! Have fun!
When I'm able to take up harmonica and teach myself to play it, I've already settled on the Special 20. I hope to get one very soon to be able to start playing, within the next few days (my local music store has Special 20s in all keys, according to their website, including in C, so I'm good)
Sweet! Get it! Keep us posted... 😎
great review...had one of these for years....like it alot
Right on. Thanks for the note!
ive bought the same harmonica :) in my country its even cheaper than 50-60$. got into it harmonicas many years ago from black sabbaths song the wizard :) now i finally decided to buy one and try to play something and hopefuly one day ill play the wizard :)
You got this! 👊🏼
Thanks for the great video! Could you help me choosing between Special 20 and Golden Melody? This will be a gift for my husband (beginner) and I think he would fall in love with the retro design of Golden Memory, but is it more easy to learn and play with Special 20 than with Golden Memory? Btw he’s playing guitar and loves rock, blues ect. (Which harp and key (C?) goes alongside the acoustic guitar?) I’m confused and need your help asap please! 🌸
All right, good looking out wifey! Golden Melody is just easy as Special 20, so go for it! Definitely Key of C is what you want to start on.
Aloha,
Luke
I've just subscived this channel.
Good sound for everybody !!!
Thanks Fulvio!
Yep, sounds cool! I just Subbed myself.
Great don't forget to subscribe to me also
I'm starting to learn the Harmonica very soon, and i just bought one of these, i wanna play the Blues, i hope its a good choice
FANTASTIC choice. I hope your journey is great!
Blues on,
Luke
I'm a beginner player and I started on this harp in the key of C. I think you're on the right track already, before you've even played. It's been a great thing for me, I hope you love it as well
This has been very helpful. Absolutely informative! Subscribed 👏
Awesome, thank you Samantha!
Someone told me to get a better Harmonica. 😢 I like it. Good review 😄
I Have the Special 20 for C and for G Dur and i Love the Harmonica !In Germany 25 € 😎👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
You’re lucky, Nobody! I guess they’re cheaper in Germany! Makes sense since they’re made there!
Is this true for the Progressive Series ?
Sehr gute Review. Greetings from Germany Bro 🇩🇪
1 year later. Haha
Aloha from Hawaii!
Is it a CLASSIC Special 20 or a PROGRESSIVE Special 20? I am confused which of these is the suggested buy.
Hmmm. I'm not too sure. Sorry about that!
Hey man I’m going to buy this harp. I know absolutely nothing about harmonica but some of my favourite John Mayer songs are played with one. I’ve been playing guitar for 2 and half years now and am never going to put it down. Any tips on where I should learn harmonica online? Thanks
congrats!!!! I think this is the best lessons online:
www.harmonica.com/lessons/
(and I'm totally unbiased. 😉)
that was everything I needed to know. thank you
Awesome You're welcome. It's my pleasure. Rock on! 😎
Sounds like a great choice, which key would be the best choice for playing alongside guitar. Depends on the key of the song, of course, but just in general which key would you recommend.
Dave - yes, you answered your own question in that it depends on the key of the song. If you're wanting to do blues in E, the A harmonica is your axe. A lot of folk stuff like Neil Young and Bob Dylan is nice in G in 1st position - G harmonica.
Hope that helps!
Aloha,
Luke
So does that mean we can’t play alongside guitar if we choose the C major harp?
0:22 How do you make the harmonica sound like that? I’m trying to figure out how harmonica players do that.
Hey Isaac - well I’m playing in second position, and I’m bending. Perhaps this video might help if you haven’t seen it yet: ua-cam.com/video/JNSfYblG1oY/v-deo.html
@@Harmonicacom Hey Luke, I just wanted to say thanks for the advice and I can bend really well on the harmonica. I am having fun with it and my father got me a case of 7 harmonicas but each one is worth cheap and the quality doesn’t last long. They are in the keys of C, G, D, F, Bb, E, and A. I bought me a Midnight Blue in the key of A, a Special 20 in the key of C, a Rocket Amp in the key of Bb and my Dad bought me a Lee Oskar Natural Minor in the key of Am for my birthday. I am looking forward to getting a Crossover and a Seydel Session Steel and getting them in the keys of G and Ab, and maybe getting other keys like a Rocket Low Harmonica. Next I’ll learn how to do a flutter sound playing the harmonica.
Thanks! Greetings from Germany 🇩🇪👍🏼🔥
You’re welcome! Aloha from Hawaii.
Hey Luke how are you ? The end part of the video I mean the last tune was great including bending ..can you please give us the tab? so that we can practice . Take care bro.
-8 8 -9 8 -8 8 -9' 9 10 10" 9 9' (slide to left)
-8 8 -8 -7 -6 6
-5 -5 5 5 -4 -4 4 4 -3' -3 -3' -3 6
-5 -4 -4' -3' -2 4 -3' -2 -2
-2 -3 -2 -3" 4 -3" -3' -4' -3' -34 (trill)
-3 -4 -3 -3' --4' -4' -3" 4 -3" -23 (trill)
-3 -3" -2 -1 1 -123
-14 25 -14 -25 36 -25 25 -14 36
Rock on Ananda.
Thanks alot...
Got exactly what i wanted to know.
M going for Hohner Special 20👍👍
Love from India🙏
Great 👍 Glad the video helped. I think you'll love it!
Aloha from Hawaii.
@@Harmonicacom Namaste from India🙏❤️🤗
Thanks for the review... Did it come out of the box in tune?? Take care, Luke...
Hey Bruce - it did indeed. Sounds beautifully in tune right out of the box!
Don't have teeth.
Only top plate right now.
Any tips to bending notes ?
Have trouble for LONG time trying
Thanks
Richard - the deep relaxed mouth position is the first big key. I demonstrate it in this video:
ua-cam.com/video/v4mDMJzsnoU/v-deo.html
After that, I recommend lifting that back of the tongue up against the hard palette like you’re saying “Kk.” Hope that helps!
I like the ingraved labels anyway because when they're painted on the key labels will wear out I've had that problem before I give the engraved labels a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ of 5 ⭐️"s
Aw that's so kind of you Matthew. You're welcome. It's my pleasure. Rock on! 😎
@Harmonicacom Sorry, my name's not matthew, but thank you. I'm still waiting on my horner special 20 from amazon, but I can't wait to get my hands on it
@@Harmonicacom ROCK ON ! 🤘🤘
@Harmonicacom Hey, I came to tell ya that my Harmonica came in today, and I love it. I've playing at nonstop
Thanks a lot for your review . I watched many time . But I still don't know which one I will order between Hohner Special 20 or Lee Osca for key of G and A . Could you give me your opinion , please !
If you'll be playing chords, the Special 20. If only single notes, Lee Oskar.
@@Harmonicacom thank you ! ❤
SP20 is my first choice and therefor I've got all of them. The lack comfort of because of the sharp corners could perhelps be adjusted by rounding them yourself a bit. Bending is nice and easy, but I like the sound and tone of a wooden comb more, like for instance my blues harps and marinebands which were my first purchases.
Hey, Roland I’m with you all the way. Sharp corners are super-minor, bending is great, and wood combs have that classic old bluesy tone. The sound, well…. Woody! Lol.
@@Harmonicacom Yeah try to round/shape those sharp corners of the SP20 if it really bothers you. Use a file or sanding paper to smoothen those edges. Can't do no harm.
Hello from Edinburgh, Scotland. Enjoyed your review. I'm a professional musician and have been using Hohner Big River Harps for 20 odd years but have started to become slightly disillusioned with the quality. They sometimes go out of tune almost immediately. Is this because they have outsourced some makes to China? Feel ready to move up to the Special 20 and will pay the extra for the right type if it means it will last. What is your opinion?
Aloha Graeme from Scotland! YES, I think you will be SO HAPPY with what you find with playability, tone, and longevity on the Special 20. Well worth the extra money. Keep me posted...
good scoring system it makes it clear what are the strong points.
Glad it helped!
Hi there, thank you for making this videos for us.
Want to ask, which gift you recommend me to buy as a gift to a friend? I was between the hohner special 20 or the golden melody
Special 20! Depending on the friend, there's also collector's item pink-combed one they released in October for breast cancer awareness month with portion of proceeds going to cancer research. You can see it at Rockin' Rons.
@@Harmonicacom Thanks for the suggestion.. before making decision I’ll check your review about the golden melody aswel and make the final decision.
about the key label you said on 3:18 I think you're wrong. it's etched on the right upper side, above the right screw, CMIIW.
It's easy on your lips, sounds great, corners could be better.
If these have not changed in quality they are great. Mine is old, still sounds great. Never gave it a thought on looks.
Frank - yeah, looks is probably not the most important category, lol. But the lack of key labels is annoying.
Thanks... Will go to store for this...
Right on Gary! Hope you love it!
Thanks so much for your great reviews ❤ I was wondering if it’s possible to make a review some Suzuki harmonicas especially the Pure Harp that stands out from the rest maybe even the Sub30 would be great and not to forget the wilder tuning harp, Akai also. :) the Pure Harp first though:) Thanks again!! I wish you would basically do all the harps in the world - it’s a great sound and presentation!! Much ❤
Hi teacher
I hope you are well
1. Is Cheromatix SCX64 - 16hole suitable for someone who wants to play classical music? (like Beethoven, Bach, etc...)
2. Do you think SCX64 is more suitable for classical music or Larry Adler 16 holes?
Yes the Suzuki is GREAT. I own one. Fantastic instrument.
You're right. I bought it. Thanks.
Sweeeeet. Congrats.
can you do review nonslider harmonica by seydel luke?
What be one ya recommend for a newbie but want to be worthy of excellent music even when your experienced?
This (Hohner Special 20) would be a great one! Or Lee Oskar.
I recently ordered s20 on Amazon and it came with a different packaging and a sticker with a "Made in China" on the box. The code for free lesson works though...
And I'm guessing you like the harmonica, right?
Made in China sounds like you got a Chinese copy and not the original made in Germany.
LOVE my hohner !!!
Yes, Hohner’s are rock solid, no doubt.
Ambrose Kenny Smith from The Murlocs and King Gizzard uses this too
Newbie here, I have a special 20 (c). I want to buy another harp. A nice one. No plans to gig. Just for fun. What do recommended?
You could sample a Lee Oskar to compare. Or if you wanna splurge on something, maybe check out a Hohner Crossover.
Is there a video somewhere where i can see what to expect from different holes? I had to order a replacement because the 9 and 10 holes were very inconsistent on blow and draw... now the replacement has the same problem but also the 2 draw sounds like a dying duck. I'm willing to admit user error but I'm also trying everything I'm seeing online about puckering etc
Yeah, it's not the harp! 🤣 Don't you worry, this is normal problem that most beginners experience! 👌🏼 These are the tips for a getting good -2:
1.) Let gravity lower your jaw so that it's totally relaxed and in a nice "aw" vowel shape, your teeth should be far apart from each other
2.) Keep the back of your tongue down, like it is when you yawn. Make sure it's not in the "Kk" zone (how your tongue is when you say a "Kk" consonant.)
3.) Nice steady, GENTLE, airflow. Most beginners (and many intermediate and advanced players) use WAY to much pressure.
Be patient with it. Until it get better for you, when needed, you can always play 3 instead of -2 (since they're the same note.)
Hope that helps! 😎
Aloha,
Luke
Yup. I’m convinced! I just got one haha
I hope you love it!
Is this still one you would recommend or are there now better ones
Special 20 is a great one! More here: www.harmonica.com/which-harmonica-to-buy/
I am looking into starting to play Harmonica. Is this the better option between this and the Marine Band?
I think so Liam.
Got special 20 in c as a starter some reviews say they dont last long is this because harsh playing or practicing as beginner . How abt rocket saw review on resonsness others say very responsive . Regular rocket / or amp as other choice ?
I like the rocket amp better than the rocket. It's definitely a great harp. Many people LOVE it. ua-cam.com/video/LN8EGSqW83E/v-deo.html
Is it good for jazz? There are better ones for sure, but I'm wondering about this one
Well chromatic harmonica is the type of instrument most often used for jazz, which I talk about here: www.harmonica.com/exploring-the-3-types-of-harmonica/
It's great for blues, soul, gospel, country....
Is necessary make a "paddy richter tuning" because non all of people plays only blues
Would you recommend this as a beginner harmonica? Does it bend efficienly ? Hohner - M560616X, Diatonic Harmonica Special 20 Country in C
Thank you
No, that's country tuning! You definitely wanna start with standard tuning! (You can check out country tuning later, but I don't recommend starting with it.)
But yes, Special 20 is GREAT for beginners as I mention here: www.harmonica.com/which-harmonica-to-buy/
@@Harmonicacom thank you so much for your reactivity !That was very helpful! Yes i saw it already , ill stick to the special 20 progressive then, you are doing a great job!
Hi I've purchased the Hohner International Blues Band in the Key of c, but it sounds too Tinny ?
Yeah, the Blues Band is not really a professional level harmonica.
Hey Luke, you mentioned in your Lee Oskar review that players had told you that they were bad mustache grabbers. How about these Special 20s, are they also mustache grabbers??
No I don't think so...
Great review!!!
Glad you found it helpful!
Aloha,
Luke
Which harmonica key (Special 20) is best for bending?
Hey Nicola - thanks for watching. Definitely recommend starting with key of C for sure, no doubt.
Rock on,
Luke
@@Harmonicacom ok! thanks
Glad I got the upgrade lol Rocket Amp in C.
Yeah, the Rockets rock!
Hi there,The Rocket one is really good choice?
@@hugochen303 they are an upgrade to the special 20 , super easy to play , very comfy and easy bends . special 20 (stock) Rocket (turbo) Rocket Amp ( Nitro ) lol try one , I have 3 , A Bb, and C. The A has a great sound.
Hi I'm a beginner from Thailand,thank you for make this videos for us.
But I want to know this "Hohner Special 20" and "Hohner The Beatles Signature" it different or not?
Which one can bending better and easier?
Thank you very much🙏🏻😅
I prefer the special 20
ua-cam.com/users/shortsXr89bCFx4D4
Would you recommend an SP20 or Easttop Blues for an absolute beginner?
Just opened up my first Easttop Blues and was impressed. If you're on a tight budget or you're just wanting to dip your toes in the water, the Easttop is perfectly acceptable!
This special 20 gets loud but, What do you think is the loudest growliest wailing blues harp there is?
In the Hohner line I'd say the Rocket. But it's not my favorite because I find it to be slightly less responsive than I like. I think the Seydel's shine in the "loudest" category from the perspective you can blow and draw with all your friggin might and those stainless steel reeds will take the licking and keep on ticking! If you wanna play REALLY HARD, you might consider Seydel. My favorite of there line is the Seydel 1847 CLASSIC. Rock on.
Luke your great in any ways, cool. Thank you very much.
I appreciate that, Robert!
What is the difference between harmonicas if on one is label special 20 progressive, and on another special 20 marine band?
Hmmmm. I can't remember. Sorry...
Hohner blues harp c vs special 20 c ???
Special 20 any day of the week.
Special 20,Golden melody or marine band which is the best?
Marine Bands are the old school classic so if you’re going for “old” “woody” sound, it’s worth considering, BUT are more painful on the mouth because of wood comb. Special 20 and Golden Melody have plastic combs so they’re much more comfy on the lips. Special 20 is tuned to sound better on chords, and Golden Melody is tuned to sound better on single notes. They’re all equally great harps, but those are the strengths of each. Hope that helps!
The special 20 is an excellent harmonica, but you have to be lucky to get a good piece. My first special 20 had a great sound, especially the second hole had a great sound, and was easy to play and bend it. The next piece ( I'm comparing harmonicas of the same key of course) didn't play as tinga nice on the second hole. Yes, I still played it, but with much more effort and therefore not as fast..I bought a hohner service kit and learned reed offsetting, but to no avail. Eventually I found out that the bend of the end of the second reed plays a major role and you can't set that yourself... With the dealers there is no talk about this problem, everyone says the same thing: You have to learn to play the second hole, it takes practice... I know that of course, but the main thing is the differences in the setting and the shape of the second reed... Does anyone have a similar experience?
Nope, all the Special 20's I've bought have been great on -2. You coulda got a bad one. But I agree that most problems that people have with the -2 is technique related more than harmonica related. Thanks for sharing!
Does anyone know the weight of this harmonica? I am wondering because I want to bring it on a long distance hike:)
.1kg. BRING IT!!! YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!!! 🎶
It’s a great harp, but your on the money about the sharp corners, I filed my corners off😏
What key do you have it in?
I have it in the key of C
Harmonica com thanks man
Is this key of G?
C harmonica (plays blues in G)
@@Harmonicacom thank you very much! Thanks for your help!!
How would the Special 20 compare with Lee Oscars?
Aloha David - they’re very comparable.
@@Harmonicacom Gracias, Amigo
I don't feel like my skills have improved much since getting my Special 20 a few weeks ago HOWEVER, I did run some errands Saturday without it in my pocket and felt naked all day. So, there's that. Lol
That's a good sign.
Is this the classic or progressive? I can't seems to find the classic anymore.
From what I understand, there are no significant differences in the way they play and sound. I’m reviewing a brand new one in this vid, so if you buy a new one, you’ll be playing they same type I’m reviewing.
Can you do a review on the Hohner Blues Harp ? there are a lot of mixed reviews on the internet either people love it or hate it.. peace
It's a great harmonica. I rank it 4.4/5 stars. I personally like the Crossover (expensive) and the Golden Melody better from Hohner, but the Blues Harp is great if you want a wooden comb. (I prefer playing plastic combs.)
Is this a good for beginningers???
Yes, Julie it's GREAT for beginners if it feels affordable. Here is my article on which brands to buy: www.harmonica.com/which-harmonica-to-buy/
Are all keys available?
Yes!
hey guys , iam really want to learn how to play and start a good start and i don't know any of the basics can someone assists me ?
Hey Muhammed - these vids might help you:
ua-cam.com/play/PLyv42f0OGtPrZ8_C-0WN0bWNZH442LGHY.html
Is this an A, B, or C?
C
Hi broo!
Please answer me.
I will bay this harmonicas !
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
- Hohnera special 20 C for learning.
- Hohner CX-12 C Tenor Harmonica:
for future (after learning).
- Seydel Big Six:
for time pass in car or travel or......
Give me idea please.
Thank you very much broo...
😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁
Sounds like a plan. The Special 20 is a great one to learn on for sure.
@@Harmonicacom
Thank you very much broo 👍
Nice job
Thanks Manuel!
Love special 20's.
David - yep, they’re great.
So u can play any music on the Special 20
Honestly, I really like how it looks. Also, I have really big hands so you can hardly even see it when I’m playing.
Winston - right on. The sound is paramount in the final analysis!
Could not make overblow on special 20
Noted! Thanks (I haven't started getting into overblows or overdraws yet.)
How to blow low A?
Hey Gary - I'm not understanding your question?
Im considerin Blues Harp , Lee Oskar , And Special 20. Which one would u prefer??
Plus ive been usin Pro harp of Hohner. Do you think its much different from Special 20?
I've never played the Pro Harp, but it looks like the cover plates don't fully cover the reed plates, which means you'll probably find the Lee Oskar or SP 20 a little more comfy on the lips. My personal fav is the Lee Oskar, but The special 20 is great too! I'd go for one of them over the Blues Harp. Hope that helps!
Just got one - finally. Really impressed with the sound and the feel of it. Yes, the sharp corners could have been rounded at the factory, by design, rather than leaving me to do it with a file but it was 5 minutes well spent and to my eye it's no better or worse looking than the other Hohners. Which makes it 5/5.
Nice!
hello, your model is the 560PBXC? what is the difference between it and the 560BXC? (progressive vs classic) according to the video v=6SAZxMMgdFE "progressive" is inferior... last question is there a difference with the M560016X model (found on amazon with this number)? thx
Hey there - the progressive is not inferior to the classic. The only real difference is the artwork on the cover plate, and the reed plate has an extra set of holes so that it can be interchangeable with the Rocket (which has it's screws closer to the front of the comb) and the Golden Melody. (The Rocket, the Golden Melody, and The Special 20 are all part of Hohner's Progressive line of harmonicas.)
In 2014 when they first made the switch, the reed plates were gapped higher, and that's where you get people talking about that the classics were better. But Hohner quickly got that corrected. So there is no longer any real difference in sound or playability between the progressive and the classic. This info is coming straight from the horses mouth!
Hope that helps!
Aloha,
Luke
Excellent
Thank you! Cheers!
How does this compare to the Blues Harp in tone and playability?
SP 20 is a bit better in tone and especially playability (more comfy on the lips) than the Blues Harp. If you already have a Blues Harp, not to worry, you're good to go! BUT, if you're considering buying a Blues Harp or a SP 20, I'd definitely go with the SP 20!
i can this harmonica on amazon for £38 but in the us its over $100
Hmmmm. Are you in the US? We sell it for $47 right now:
www.harmonica.com/store/hohner-special-20/
@@Harmonicacom thank you 🙏