What is the primary benefit of the Easy Third tuning?

The Easy Third layout allows musicians to switch fluidly between major and minor melodies. This makes it easier to play complex folk, jazz, and reggae lines without relying on advanced bending techniques.

How many reeds does the Seydel 1847 Easy Third have?

This harmonica features 20 reeds. These are made from stainless steel to ensure longevity and tuning stability.

What materials are used for the reed plates?

The instrument utilizes nickel silver reed plates. This material contributes to the fast response and overall tonal quality of the harmonica.

Is the walnut comb prone to swelling?

No, the walnut comb is multi-layered and sealed. This construction method is specifically designed to resist swelling and moisture damage common in unsealed wooden combs.

In which key is this specific model tuned?

This specific model is tuned to the key of A. This is a common key for many folk and blues compositions.

What genres are most suited for this harmonica?

It is ideal for Irish and Scottish folk, jazz, reggae, and funk. Its layout supports the melodic requirements of these diverse styles.

Can I play chords on the Seydel 1847 Easy Third?

Yes, it is designed to produce a full-sounding minor draw chord. It also supports double stops such as fifths and octaves for an expanded expressive palette.

How does the sound character compare to other woods?

The sealed walnut comb provides a warm sound. This balances the bright, clear response provided by the stainless steel reeds.

Is this harmonica suitable for beginners?

While it is a professional-grade instrument, it is excellent for players who want to explore melodies without mastering advanced bending. Its layout is described as intuitive for folk and melodic players.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Seydel 1847 Easy Third in A typically retails for approximately GBP 101. This reflects its status as a high-end, German-made instrument.

Does this model use standard brass reeds?

No, it uses stainless steel reeds. These are generally more durable and hold their pitch longer than traditional brass reeds.

How does the size of the 1847 compare to other harmonicas?

The Seydel 1847 is compact and lightweight. It maintains the traditional feel of a blues harmonica while offering enhanced musical flexibility.

Gear article

Seydel 1847 Easy Third Harmonica (Key of A)

The Seydel 1847 Easy Third is a professional-grade diatonic harmonica featuring a specialised tuning layout designed for melodic flexibility between major and minor scales. Manufactured by the world's oldest harmonica maker, it incorporates stainless steel reeds and a sealed walnut comb to provide a warm, responsive tone suitable for folk, jazz, and world music.

Seydel Harmonicas Seydel 1847 - Easy Third Harmonica A

See live prices

Background and Design

The Seydel 1847 series represents the flagship line of the German manufacturer C.A. Seydel Söhne. The 'Easy Third' variant is specifically engineered to bridge the gap between the traditional blues harp feel and the melodic versatility required for complex genres. Unlike standard Richter tuning, which often requires advanced bending techniques to achieve certain intervals, the Easy Third layout provides a more intuitive path for playing melodies across Irish, Scottish, and various folk traditions.

Technical Specifications

The instrument is constructed using 20 stainless steel reeds mounted on nickel silver reed plates. This combination ensures high tonal stability and a fast response time. The comb is crafted from solid walnut, which is multi-layered and sealed to prevent the swelling and warping issues commonly associated with traditional wooden harmonicas. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a portable option for touring musicians.

Musical Character

The Easy Third layout is designed to allow fluid transitions between major and minor melodies. The harmonica produces a full-sounding minor draw chord and facilitates tightly voiced double stops, including fifths and octaves. This expanded expressive palette is achieved without the necessity of difficult overblows. The use of walnut in the comb adds a characteristic warmth to the sound, rounding out the crispness of the stainless steel reeds.

Suitability and Comparisons

This model is particularly suited for folk, jazz, reggae, and funk players who require melodic precision. While instruments like the Fender Blues Deluxe Harmonica offer a standard entry-point into blues playing, the Seydel 1847 Easy Third is a more specialised tool for those moving beyond basic twelve-bar structures. It offers a distinct alternative to standard hand percussion or melodic instruments like the Sonor NG31 Glockenspiel for musicians seeking a portable lead instrument with professional-grade durability.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the Easy Third tuning?: The Easy Third layout allows musicians to switch fluidly between major and minor melodies. This makes it easier to play complex folk, jazz, and reggae lines without relying on advanced bending techniques.
How many reeds does the Seydel 1847 Easy Third have?: This harmonica features 20 reeds. These are made from stainless steel to ensure longevity and tuning stability.
What materials are used for the reed plates?: The instrument utilizes nickel silver reed plates. This material contributes to the fast response and overall tonal quality of the harmonica.
Is the walnut comb prone to swelling?: No, the walnut comb is multi-layered and sealed. This construction method is specifically designed to resist swelling and moisture damage common in unsealed wooden combs.
In which key is this specific model tuned?: This specific model is tuned to the key of A. This is a common key for many folk and blues compositions.
What genres are most suited for this harmonica?: It is ideal for Irish and Scottish folk, jazz, reggae, and funk. Its layout supports the melodic requirements of these diverse styles.
Can I play chords on the Seydel 1847 Easy Third?: Yes, it is designed to produce a full-sounding minor draw chord. It also supports double stops such as fifths and octaves for an expanded expressive palette.
How does the sound character compare to other woods?: The sealed walnut comb provides a warm sound. This balances the bright, clear response provided by the stainless steel reeds.
Is this harmonica suitable for beginners?: While it is a professional-grade instrument, it is excellent for players who want to explore melodies without mastering advanced bending. Its layout is described as intuitive for folk and melodic players.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Seydel 1847 Easy Third in A typically retails for approximately GBP 101. This reflects its status as a high-end, German-made instrument.
Does this model use standard brass reeds?: No, it uses stainless steel reeds. These are generally more durable and hold their pitch longer than traditional brass reeds.
How does the size of the 1847 compare to other harmonicas?: The Seydel 1847 is compact and lightweight. It maintains the traditional feel of a blues harmonica while offering enhanced musical flexibility.