When was the Hohner Special 20 first produced?

The Special 20 was first introduced in the 1970s as the world's first modern harmonica design.

What makes the Special 20 mouthpiece unique?

It features a recessed reed plate, meaning the metal plates are set into the comb so the player's lips only touch the smooth plastic mouthpiece.

Is the comb on the Special 20 made of wood?

No, the comb is made of injection-moulded ABS plastic, which prevents it from swelling or cracking due to moisture.

Is this harmonica suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is a favourite for beginners because it is very easy to play and provides a smooth 'glide' experience for the lips.

Can you bend notes easily on a Special 20?

The Special 20 is considered ideal for learning to bend, as every note is designed to bend with relative ease.

What key is this specific model tuned to?

This specific model of the Hohner Progressive Special 20 is tuned to the key of D Major.

What is the typical price for this instrument?

The typical price range for this harmonica is approximately £39 (GBP).

How does the plastic comb affect maintenance?

Because the ABS plastic does not swell or crack like wood, the instrument is more durable and requires less maintenance regarding airtightness.

Does the design of the cover plate affect the sound?

Yes, the small openings at the back of the cover plates help project the sound and contribute to its specific tonal profile.

Is the Special 20 used by professional musicians?

Yes, it is a popular choice among both professionals and beginners due to its reliability and comfortable design.

How does it compare to the Fender Blues Deluxe?

Unlike the Fender Blues Deluxe, the Special 20 features a recessed reed plate which many find more comfortable for extended playing sessions.

What series does the Special 20 belong to?

The Special 20 is part of the Hohner Progressive series, reflecting its role in modernising harmonica design.

Gear article

Hohner Progressive Special 20 Harmonica

The Hohner Progressive Special 20 is a professional-grade diatonic harmonica renowned for being the first model to feature a recessed reed plate design. It is widely considered the first 'modern' harmonica, offering a durable ABS plastic comb and a design that prioritises player comfort and air-tightness.

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History and Development

First produced in the 1970s, the Hohner Special 20 represented a significant shift in harmonica manufacturing. Before its introduction, most harmonicas featured exposed reed plate edges and wooden combs. The Special 20 was the world’s first modern harmonica to integrate a plastic comb with a recessed reed plate, a design choice that has since inspired numerous other models across the industry.

Design and Key Features

The defining characteristic of the Special 20 is its recessed reed plate. By sinking the metal plates into the injection-moulded ABS plastic comb, Hohner ensures that the player's lips only make contact with the smooth plastic of the mouthpiece. This design prevents the abrasive feel of metal edges and eliminates the risk of lip irritation.

The use of an ABS plastic comb provides significant structural advantages over traditional pearwood. Unlike wood, the plastic material will not swell, warp, or crack when exposed to moisture from breath, ensuring long-term tuning stability and a consistent airtight seal. The cover plates feature small openings at the back, which contribute to the instrument's specific projection.

Sound and Playability

The Special 20 is noted for its responsive nature, making it a preferred choice for players who utilise note-bending techniques. Because the construction is exceptionally airtight, the instrument requires less breath to produce a clear tone, allowing for greater control during technical passages. The tonal character is warm and consistent, suitable for a variety of genres including folk, rock, and blues.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to traditional models like the Fender Blues Deluxe (Key of A), the Special 20 is often favoured for its superior comfort due to the recessed plates. While models such as the Blues Deluxe offer a classic aesthetic, the Special 20 is generally regarded as more accessible for beginners who may find exposed metal plates difficult to navigate. Within the wider world of hand-held instruments, it occupies a professional tier alongside percussion such as Sonor Glockenspiels or Meinl Planetary Tuned Singing Bowls, despite its compact size.

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Frequently asked questions

When was the Hohner Special 20 first produced?: The Special 20 was first introduced in the 1970s as the world's first modern harmonica design.
What makes the Special 20 mouthpiece unique?: It features a recessed reed plate, meaning the metal plates are set into the comb so the player's lips only touch the smooth plastic mouthpiece.
Is the comb on the Special 20 made of wood?: No, the comb is made of injection-moulded ABS plastic, which prevents it from swelling or cracking due to moisture.
Is this harmonica suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is a favourite for beginners because it is very easy to play and provides a smooth 'glide' experience for the lips.
Can you bend notes easily on a Special 20?: The Special 20 is considered ideal for learning to bend, as every note is designed to bend with relative ease.
What key is this specific model tuned to?: This specific model of the Hohner Progressive Special 20 is tuned to the key of D Major.
What is the typical price for this instrument?: The typical price range for this harmonica is approximately £39 (GBP).
How does the plastic comb affect maintenance?: Because the ABS plastic does not swell or crack like wood, the instrument is more durable and requires less maintenance regarding airtightness.
Does the design of the cover plate affect the sound?: Yes, the small openings at the back of the cover plates help project the sound and contribute to its specific tonal profile.
Is the Special 20 used by professional musicians?: Yes, it is a popular choice among both professionals and beginners due to its reliability and comfortable design.
How does it compare to the Fender Blues Deluxe?: Unlike the Fender Blues Deluxe, the Special 20 features a recessed reed plate which many find more comfortable for extended playing sessions.
What series does the Special 20 belong to?: The Special 20 is part of the Hohner Progressive series, reflecting its role in modernising harmonica design.