When was the Hohner Special 20 first produced?

The Special 20 was first manufactured in the 1970s and is credited as the world's first modern harmonica design.

What is the benefit of a recessed reed plate?

The recessed design sinks the metal reed plate into the comb. This prevents the lips from touching abrasive metal edges, creating a smoother glide and increasing comfort.

What material is the comb made from?

The comb is constructed from ABS plastic. This material is chosen because it does not swell, crack, or warp when exposed to moisture from breath.

Is the Special 20 suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is highly recommended for beginners due to its comfort and ease of play. The airtight design makes it easier for new players to produce clear notes.

How is the harmonica assembled?

The instrument is assembled using torx screws. This makes it simple for users to take the harmonica apart for routine maintenance or cleaning.

What is the typical price for a Special 20?

The Hohner Progressive Special 20 typically retails for approximately GBP 47. This price reflects its status as a professional-level instrument at an accessible cost.

How does this model handle moisture?

Because it features an ABS plastic comb, it is highly resistant to moisture. Unlike wooden-comb harmonicas, it will not expand or leak air after long practice sessions.

What genre of music is this specific model tuned for?

While versatile, this specific variant is configured for country music. Its tuning and response are tailored to meet the needs of country harmonica players.

Can professional musicians use the Special 20?

Yes, despite its accessible price, the Special 20 is a favourite among professionals. Its reliability and tonal qualities make it suitable for stage and studio use.

Is the contact between the lips and the harmonica metal or plastic?

Due to the recessed reed plates, there is fully plastic contact between the lips and the mouthpiece. This prevents the 'cold' feel of metal common in older designs.

How does it compare to the Fender Blues Deluxe?

The Special 20 is often preferred for its modern recessed plate design and ABS comb. The Fender Blues Deluxe is a common alternative, but the Hohner is noted for its specific ease of bending and history of innovation.

Gear article

Hohner Progressive Special 20 Harmonica C Country

The Hohner Progressive Special 20 is a professional-grade 10-hole diatonic harmonica widely regarded as the first 'modern' harmonica design. Featuring a recessed reed plate and a moisture-resistant ABS comb, it is specifically tuned for country music and is prized for its ease of bending and airtight construction.

See live prices

Background and History

First introduced in the 1970s, the Hohner Special 20 represented a significant shift in harmonica engineering. Before its release, most harmonicas utilised wooden combs with reed plates nailed to the surface, which often led to air leaks and lip irritation. The Special 20 was the world's first modern harmonica to address these issues, setting a new standard for the industry. Its design proved so successful that it served as the blueprint for countless subsequent models from various manufacturers.

Design and Key Features

The primary innovation of the Special 20 is its recessed reed plate. The metal plates are sunk into the ABS plastic comb, ensuring that the player's lips only come into contact with the smooth plastic surface rather than abrasive metal edges. This design significantly improves playing comfort and glide.

The choice of ABS plastic for the comb provides durability and stability; unlike traditional pearwood combs, it will not swell, warp, or crack when exposed to moisture. The instrument is held together with torx screws, allowing for easy disassembly and maintenance for players who wish to clean or adjust their reeds.

Sound and Performance

This specific version is tuned for country music, offering a distinct tonal character suitable for the genre. The Special 20 is renowned for its responsiveness and airtight seal, which makes it particularly effective for 'bending' notes. Every note on the instrument is designed to bend with ease, making it a staple for players who rely on expressive microtonal techniques. Its projection is clear and consistent across all registers.

Target Audience

The Special 20 occupies a unique position in the market as an instrument that suits both novices and touring professionals. Beginners benefit from its easy playability and the forgiving nature of the plastic mouthpiece, while professionals value its reliability and tonal quality. Its accessible price point of approximately GBP 47 makes it a viable entry point for those serious about learning the instrument without sacrificing professional specifications.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to traditional models like the Fender Blues Deluxe, the Special 20 offers a more ergonomic experience due to its recessed plates. While many purists still prefer the sound of wooden-comb harmonicas, the Special 20's ABS construction provides superior longevity and resistance to climatic changes. Within the Hohner range, it is often viewed as the more comfortable, user-friendly alternative to the Marine Band series.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

When was the Hohner Special 20 first produced?: The Special 20 was first manufactured in the 1970s and is credited as the world's first modern harmonica design.
What is the benefit of a recessed reed plate?: The recessed design sinks the metal reed plate into the comb. This prevents the lips from touching abrasive metal edges, creating a smoother glide and increasing comfort.
What material is the comb made from?: The comb is constructed from ABS plastic. This material is chosen because it does not swell, crack, or warp when exposed to moisture from breath.
Is the Special 20 suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is highly recommended for beginners due to its comfort and ease of play. The airtight design makes it easier for new players to produce clear notes.
How easy is it to bend notes on this model?: The Special 20 is considered ideal for learning to bend. Every note on the instrument is designed to bend easily, which is essential for country and blues styles.
How is the harmonica assembled?: The instrument is assembled using torx screws. This makes it simple for users to take the harmonica apart for routine maintenance or cleaning.
What is the typical price for a Special 20?: The Hohner Progressive Special 20 typically retails for approximately GBP 47. This price reflects its status as a professional-level instrument at an accessible cost.
How does this model handle moisture?: Because it features an ABS plastic comb, it is highly resistant to moisture. Unlike wooden-comb harmonicas, it will not expand or leak air after long practice sessions.
What genre of music is this specific model tuned for?: While versatile, this specific variant is configured for country music. Its tuning and response are tailored to meet the needs of country harmonica players.
Can professional musicians use the Special 20?: Yes, despite its accessible price, the Special 20 is a favourite among professionals. Its reliability and tonal qualities make it suitable for stage and studio use.
Is the contact between the lips and the harmonica metal or plastic?: Due to the recessed reed plates, there is fully plastic contact between the lips and the mouthpiece. This prevents the 'cold' feel of metal common in older designs.
How does it compare to the Fender Blues Deluxe?: The Special 20 is often preferred for its modern recessed plate design and ABS comb. The Fender Blues Deluxe is a common alternative, but the Hohner is noted for its specific ease of bending and history of innovation.