What is the primary benefit of the Easy Third tuning?

The Easy Third tuning allows players to access minor scales and melodic intervals more easily than standard Richter tuning. It is specifically designed to reduce the need for difficult bending techniques when playing minor blues or folk music.

Are the reeds in the Seydel 1847 made of brass?

No, this model features 20 stainless steel reeds. Stainless steel is used for its superior durability and its ability to stay in tune longer than traditional brass reeds.

What material is used for the comb of this harmonica?

The comb is made from sealed walnut. The sealing process prevents the wood from swelling when exposed to moisture, ensuring the instrument remains airtight and comfortable to play.

What key is this specific model tuned to?

This specific model is tuned to the key of B-flat (Bb). This is a common key for jazz and blues contexts.

Can I play chords on the Easy Third harmonica?

Yes, the layout supports expressive minor chords as well as full-sounding fifths and octaves. This makes it a strong choice for both lead melodies and rhythmic accompaniment.

How much does the Seydel 1847 Easy Third typically cost?

The typical price for this model is approximately £101. It is positioned as a professional-grade instrument.

Is this harmonica suitable for Irish folk music?

Yes, the Easy Third tuning is specifically recommended for Irish folk, as well as jazz and minor blues. It simplifies the melodic runs often found in those genres.

How many reeds does the instrument have?

The Seydel 1847 Easy Third is a 10-hole harmonica featuring 20 individual stainless steel reeds. Each hole typically contains one blow reed and one draw reed.

Does the walnut comb affect the sound?

The sealed walnut comb provides a warm, resonant tone. It combines the traditional feel of wood with modern durability and moisture resistance.

Is the reed plate replaceable?

The instrument features nickel silver reed plates that are tightly fitted. Like most high-end Seydel models, these components are designed for precision and can be serviced by a technician if necessary.

Can beginners use the Easy Third tuning?

While it is accessible, the Easy Third is a specialised tuning. Beginners may find it easier for certain minor melodies, but it differs from the standard Richter tuning taught in most introductory books.

How does the durability of stainless steel reeds compare to others?

Stainless steel reeds are significantly more durable than brass ones. They are less prone to fatigue and corrosion, which helps maintain the harmonica's pitch over a much longer period of use.

Gear article

Seydel 1847 Easy Third Harmonica (Bb)

The Seydel 1847 Easy Third is a high-end diatonic harmonica tuned to B-flat (Bb) and designed to facilitate melodic phrasing in minor keys without intensive bending. It features stainless steel reeds and a sealed walnut comb, prioritising longevity and a full, resonant tone for genres such as folk, jazz, and blues.

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Overview and Construction

The Seydel 1847 Easy Third Harmonica is a professional-grade instrument that utilises the brand's signature 1847 platform. The construction features 20 stainless steel reeds which are known for their durability and tuning stability compared to traditional brass reeds. These are mounted on nickel silver reed plates with high-precision tolerances to ensure airtightness and a fast response.

The body consists of a sealed walnut comb, which offers a warm aesthetic and resists the moisture swelling common in untreated wood combs. This combination of materials is intended to provide a robust instrument suitable for both touring and studio environments.

Easy Third Tuning System

The 'Easy Third' tuning is the defining feature of this model. Unlike the standard Richter tuning found on most diatonic harmonicas, this layout is modified to make minor melodies and specific intervals more accessible.

Key benefits of this tuning include: * Facilitating minor blues and Irish folk melodies. * Allowing for expressive minor chords that are difficult to achieve on standard layouts. * Providing full-sounding fifths and octaves for rhythmic accompaniment. * Reducing the reliance on complex overblow or draw-bend techniques to reach minor intervals.

Sound Character and Performance

In terms of sonics, the Seydel 1847 delivers a full-bodied tone with significant projection. The stainless steel reeds contribute to a bright, clear harmonic profile that remains stable even under heavy breath pressure. Because the comb is made from sealed walnut, it adds a degree of woody resonance to the sound while maintaining the structural integrity required for precise playability. The instrument is designed to handle rapid melodic improvisation as well as sustained chordal textures.

Target Audience and Applications

This harmonica is primarily aimed at intermediate to professional players who require versatility across different musical modes. It is particularly well-suited for musicians who frequently switch between major and minor keys mid-performance. Its design caters to folk players, jazz improvisers, and blues musicians looking for a unique 'chromatic-like' versatility within a compact, diatonic frame. While it is a premium-priced instrument at approximately £101, its build quality makes it a long-term investment for serious performers.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to standard diatonic models like the Fender Blues Deluxe (A), the Seydel 1847 Easy Third offers a more specialised tuning and higher-tier materials such as stainless steel and walnut. While the Fender model serves as a classic blues entry point, the Seydel is a technical tool for specific melodic needs. Compared to chromatic instruments like the Sonor Orff NG31 Glockenspiel or other percussion-based melodic tools, the 1847 provides a more portable, breath-driven alternative for session work.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the Easy Third tuning?: The Easy Third tuning allows players to access minor scales and melodic intervals more easily than standard Richter tuning. It is specifically designed to reduce the need for difficult bending techniques when playing minor blues or folk music.
Are the reeds in the Seydel 1847 made of brass?: No, this model features 20 stainless steel reeds. Stainless steel is used for its superior durability and its ability to stay in tune longer than traditional brass reeds.
What material is used for the comb of this harmonica?: The comb is made from sealed walnut. The sealing process prevents the wood from swelling when exposed to moisture, ensuring the instrument remains airtight and comfortable to play.
What key is this specific model tuned to?: This specific model is tuned to the key of B-flat (Bb). This is a common key for jazz and blues contexts.
Can I play chords on the Easy Third harmonica?: Yes, the layout supports expressive minor chords as well as full-sounding fifths and octaves. This makes it a strong choice for both lead melodies and rhythmic accompaniment.
How much does the Seydel 1847 Easy Third typically cost?: The typical price for this model is approximately £101. It is positioned as a professional-grade instrument.
Is this harmonica suitable for Irish folk music?: Yes, the Easy Third tuning is specifically recommended for Irish folk, as well as jazz and minor blues. It simplifies the melodic runs often found in those genres.
How many reeds does the instrument have?: The Seydel 1847 Easy Third is a 10-hole harmonica featuring 20 individual stainless steel reeds. Each hole typically contains one blow reed and one draw reed.
Does the walnut comb affect the sound?: The sealed walnut comb provides a warm, resonant tone. It combines the traditional feel of wood with modern durability and moisture resistance.
Is the reed plate replaceable?: The instrument features nickel silver reed plates that are tightly fitted. Like most high-end Seydel models, these components are designed for precision and can be serviced by a technician if necessary.
Can beginners use the Easy Third tuning?: While it is accessible, the Easy Third is a specialised tuning. Beginners may find it easier for certain minor melodies, but it differs from the standard Richter tuning taught in most introductory books.
How does the durability of stainless steel reeds compare to others?: Stainless steel reeds are significantly more durable than brass ones. They are less prone to fatigue and corrosion, which helps maintain the harmonica's pitch over a much longer period of use.