Where is the Seydel 1847 Noble manufactured?

The Seydel 1847 Noble is hand-crafted in Germany. The brand prides itself on over 160 years of German manufacturing expertise to ensure a premium product.

What material is used for the comb of the 1847 Noble?

The comb is made from black anodised aluminium. This material provides a sleek look and offers superior durability and airtightness compared to plastic or wood combs.

What are the benefits of the side-vents on the cover plates?

The side-vents are designed to optimise sound projection. This is particularly useful for players who play with a fully cupped hand technique, allowing the sound to escape more efficiently.

How does the 1847 Noble help players in dark environments?

The instrument features oval-shaped key stickers. This design choice helps the player identify the correct orientation and key of the harmonica even when visibility is low.

What is the typical price range for this harmonica?

The Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica in the key of A typically retails for approximately GBP 92. This reflects its status as a professional-grade instrument.

What finish is used on the cover plates?

The cover plates feature a matted stainless steel finish. This provides a 'scintillating' aesthetic that stands out from the shiny chrome finishes found on standard harmonicas.

Is the 1847 Noble suitable for beginners?

While it is a premium instrument designed for professionals, beginners can certainly use it. However, its high price point and specialised features are generally targeted at those seeking a 'crown jewel' experience.

What key is this specific model tuned to?

This specific model of the Seydel 1847 Noble is tuned to the key of A. This is a common key used in blues, folk, and rock music.

How does it compare to the Fender Blues Deluxe?

The Seydel 1847 Noble is a higher-end instrument featuring an aluminium comb and stainless steel covers. The Fender Blues Deluxe is a more budget-friendly alternative for players who do not require premium German hand-craftsmanship.

What branding details are found on the comb?

The back of the black anodised aluminium comb features a beautiful laser-engraved logo. This adds to the premium aesthetic and identification of the Noble series.

How long has Seydel been making harmonicas?

Seydel has been manufacturing premium harmonicas for over 160 years. The 1847 series is named in honour of the company's founding year.

Can the 1847 Noble be used for recording?

Yes, its airtight construction and precise tuning make it an excellent choice for studio recording. The side-vents also help capture a fuller sound when using microphones.

Gear article

Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica (Key of A)

The Seydel 1847 Noble is a premium diatonic harmonica handcrafted in Germany, representing the flagship model of the 1847 series. It is distinguished by its black anodised aluminium comb and matted stainless steel cover plates, designed for professional-level projection and durability.

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History and Background

Seydel Harmonicas stands as one of the oldest manufacturers in the industry, with a production history spanning over 160 years. The 1847 Noble represents the pinnacle of this heritage, serving as the 'crown jewel' of the 1847 series. While many modern harmonicas are mass-produced, the Noble series maintains a tradition of being hand-crafted in Germany to ensure rigorous quality control and a premium feel.

Design and Key Features

The 1847 Noble incorporates several high-end materials to distinguish it from entry-level instruments. The comb is constructed from black anodised aluminium, providing a rigid and airtight foundation that resists warping. The exterior features matted stainless steel cover plates that are visually striking and functional.

Side-Vents: The cover plates include side-vents, which are specifically engineered to optimise sound projection when the instrument is played fully cupped by the player's hands.
Laser Engraving: The back of the comb features a laser-engraved logo, reinforcing the premium branding.
Ergonomics: To assist performers in low-light environments, Seydel uses oval-shaped key stickers. This tactile and visual cue ensures the player correctly orientates the instrument even in the dark.

Sound Character

The use of an aluminium comb coupled with stainless steel components results in a bright, responsive, and powerful tone. Because of the airtight construction and the side-vented plates, the Noble offers significant volume and clarity. The instrument is tuned to the key of A, a standard requirement for blues and folk repertoire.

Suitability and Comparison

The Seydel 1847 Noble is designed for professional musicians and serious enthusiasts who require a durable instrument for frequent performance. Its price point, typically around GBP 92, reflects its position as a high-end tool compared to more affordable alternatives like the Fender Blues Deluxe Harmonica.

While hand percussion items such as the Meinl Small Plastic Egg Maracas or the Stagg Rock 5-1/2" Cowbell serve rhythmic roles in a band setting, the Seydel Noble provides the melodic and harmonic complexity required for lead blues performance. It is often compared to other professional instruments like the Sonor NG31 Glockenspiel in terms of build quality, though it serves a different musical function.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the Seydel 1847 Noble manufactured?: The Seydel 1847 Noble is hand-crafted in Germany. The brand prides itself on over 160 years of German manufacturing expertise to ensure a premium product.
What material is used for the comb of the 1847 Noble?: The comb is made from black anodised aluminium. This material provides a sleek look and offers superior durability and airtightness compared to plastic or wood combs.
What are the benefits of the side-vents on the cover plates?: The side-vents are designed to optimise sound projection. This is particularly useful for players who play with a fully cupped hand technique, allowing the sound to escape more efficiently.
How does the 1847 Noble help players in dark environments?: The instrument features oval-shaped key stickers. This design choice helps the player identify the correct orientation and key of the harmonica even when visibility is low.
What is the typical price range for this harmonica?: The Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica in the key of A typically retails for approximately GBP 92. This reflects its status as a professional-grade instrument.
What finish is used on the cover plates?: The cover plates feature a matted stainless steel finish. This provides a 'scintillating' aesthetic that stands out from the shiny chrome finishes found on standard harmonicas.
Is the 1847 Noble suitable for beginners?: While it is a premium instrument designed for professionals, beginners can certainly use it. However, its high price point and specialised features are generally targeted at those seeking a 'crown jewel' experience.
What key is this specific model tuned to?: This specific model of the Seydel 1847 Noble is tuned to the key of A. This is a common key used in blues, folk, and rock music.
How does it compare to the Fender Blues Deluxe?: The Seydel 1847 Noble is a higher-end instrument featuring an aluminium comb and stainless steel covers. The Fender Blues Deluxe is a more budget-friendly alternative for players who do not require premium German hand-craftsmanship.
What branding details are found on the comb?: The back of the black anodised aluminium comb features a beautiful laser-engraved logo. This adds to the premium aesthetic and identification of the Noble series.
How long has Seydel been making harmonicas?: Seydel has been manufacturing premium harmonicas for over 160 years. The 1847 series is named in honour of the company's founding year.
Can the 1847 Noble be used for recording?: Yes, its airtight construction and precise tuning make it an excellent choice for studio recording. The side-vents also help capture a fuller sound when using microphones.