What makes the Special 20 different from traditional harmonicas?

The Special 20 was the first harmonica to feature a recessed reed plate. This means the metal plates are sunk into the comb, so the player's lips only touch the smooth ABS plastic, providing a more comfortable experience than exposed metal designs.

What material is the comb made from?

The comb is made from high-quality ABS plastic. This material is chosen because it does not swell, crack, or warp when exposed to moisture from the player's breath, unlike traditional wooden combs.

Is the Special 20 suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is considered one of the best harmonicas for beginners. Its airtight design and responsive reeds make it very easy to produce clear notes and learn basic techniques like bending.

Can you bend notes easily on this model?

Absolutely. The Special 20 is specifically known for its responsiveness, and Hohner describes it as an ideal instrument for learning to bend as every note responds with ease.

When was the Hohner Special 20 first produced?

The Special 20 was first manufactured in the 1970s. It is credited with being the world's first modern harmonica design.

What is the typical price for this harmonica?

In the UK market, the Hohner Progressive Special 20 typically retails for approximately £40. This price point makes it accessible for both students and working musicians.

Does the Special 20 require a lot of maintenance?

Because it uses a plastic comb, it requires less maintenance than wooden models. It won't react to humidity, but like all harmonicas, it should be kept clean and dry after use to preserve the reeds.

What key is this specific model in?

This specific version of the Hohner Progressive Special 20 is tuned to the key of F. It is also available in other standard diatonic keys.

How does the mouthpiece feel during play?

The mouthpiece offers a very smooth 'glide' experience. Because the reed plates are recessed, there is no abrasive metal contact, allowing the player to move across the holes comfortably.

What is the 'Progressive' series?

The Progressive series is a line of Hohner harmonicas designed for modern playability and comfort. The Special 20 is a cornerstone model of this series due to its innovative recessed plate design.

How does the back of the harmonica affect the sound?

The Special 20 features small openings at the back of the cover plates. This design detail influences how the sound projects from the instrument, contributing to its specific tonal character.

Is this harmonica used by professionals?

Yes, despite its affordable price, it is a favourite among professionals. Its durability and the reliability of the ABS plastic comb make it a popular choice for touring and studio work.

Gear article

Hohner Progressive Special 20 Harmonica

The Hohner Progressive Special 20 is a professional-grade 10-hole diatonic harmonica known for being the first model to feature a recessed reed plate design. Produced since the 1970s, it is constructed with a durable ABS plastic comb and is widely regarded for its ease of playability and responsiveness, particularly for bending notes.

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History and Background

The Hohner Special 20 was first introduced in the 1970s and is frequently cited as the world's first 'modern' harmonica. Its design departed from traditional wooden-comb harmonicas, influencing the manufacturing standards of many subsequent models across the industry. As part of Hohner's Progressive series, it remains one of the most popular harmonicas in production due to its reliability and historic innovation in mouthpiece ergonomics.

Design and Key Features

The defining feature of the Special 20 is its recessed reed plate. Unlike traditional designs where the metal reed plate edges are exposed, this model sinks the plates into the ABS plastic comb. This creates a smooth, fully plastic contact surface for the player's lips, significantly increasing comfort and preventing the irritation sometimes caused by metal edges.

The use of an ABS plastic comb provides a distinct advantage over pearwood or other organic materials, as it is completely resistant to moisture. This ensures the instrument will not swell, warp, or crack over time, maintaining a consistent airtight seal and tonal quality regardless of humidity or frequent use.

Performance and Sound Character

The Special 20 is noted for its warm, mellow tone and exceptional airtightness. The small openings at the back of the cover plates help project a focused sound. It is particularly favoured by players who utilise note-bending techniques, as the reed response is calibrated to allow for easy manipulation of pitch. This responsiveness makes it a versatile tool for various genres, including blues, country, and folk.

Target Audience

Due to its accessible price point of approximately £40 and its ergonomic design, the Special 20 is a staple for beginners. The comfort of the plastic mouthpiece reduces the learning curve for those unaccustomed to the feel of metal reed plates. However, its professional-grade internals and durability make it equally suitable for touring professionals who require a reliable, moisture-resistant instrument for live performances.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other Hohner models or competitors like the Fender Blues Deluxe Harmonica in A, the Special 20 stands out for its recessed plate design. While the Fender Blues Deluxe offers a traditional aesthetic, the Special 20 focuses on modern ergonomics. Unlike traditional hand percussion items such as the Stagg Plastic Egg Maracas or Meinl Spin Spark Shakers, the Special 20 is a melodic instrument requiring precise breath control, though it shares the same portability as these smaller rhythmic tools.

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Frequently asked questions

What makes the Special 20 different from traditional harmonicas?: The Special 20 was the first harmonica to feature a recessed reed plate. This means the metal plates are sunk into the comb, so the player's lips only touch the smooth ABS plastic, providing a more comfortable experience than exposed metal designs.
What material is the comb made from?: The comb is made from high-quality ABS plastic. This material is chosen because it does not swell, crack, or warp when exposed to moisture from the player's breath, unlike traditional wooden combs.
Is the Special 20 suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is considered one of the best harmonicas for beginners. Its airtight design and responsive reeds make it very easy to produce clear notes and learn basic techniques like bending.
Can you bend notes easily on this model?: Absolutely. The Special 20 is specifically known for its responsiveness, and Hohner describes it as an ideal instrument for learning to bend as every note responds with ease.
When was the Hohner Special 20 first produced?: The Special 20 was first manufactured in the 1970s. It is credited with being the world's first modern harmonica design.
What is the typical price for this harmonica?: In the UK market, the Hohner Progressive Special 20 typically retails for approximately £40. This price point makes it accessible for both students and working musicians.
Does the Special 20 require a lot of maintenance?: Because it uses a plastic comb, it requires less maintenance than wooden models. It won't react to humidity, but like all harmonicas, it should be kept clean and dry after use to preserve the reeds.
What key is this specific model in?: This specific version of the Hohner Progressive Special 20 is tuned to the key of F. It is also available in other standard diatonic keys.
How does the mouthpiece feel during play?: The mouthpiece offers a very smooth 'glide' experience. Because the reed plates are recessed, there is no abrasive metal contact, allowing the player to move across the holes comfortably.
What is the 'Progressive' series?: The Progressive series is a line of Hohner harmonicas designed for modern playability and comfort. The Special 20 is a cornerstone model of this series due to its innovative recessed plate design.
How does the back of the harmonica affect the sound?: The Special 20 features small openings at the back of the cover plates. This design detail influences how the sound projects from the instrument, contributing to its specific tonal character.
Is this harmonica used by professionals?: Yes, despite its affordable price, it is a favourite among professionals. Its durability and the reliability of the ABS plastic comb make it a popular choice for touring and studio work.