Where is the Seydel 1847 Noble manufactured?

The Seydel 1847 Noble is hand-crafted in Germany, drawing on the manufacturer's experience of over 160 years in the industry.

What is the specific key of this model?

This specific model is tuned to the key of High G, making it a soprano-tuned harmonica.

How does the comb thickness differ on the High G model?

The High G model features a redesigned thinner comb of 5.2mm, whereas standard models typically use a 6.2mm comb.

What material is used for the reeds?

The instrument uses Seydel's famed stainless steel reeds, which are known for their durability and bright tone.

What material is the comb made from?

The comb is made from black anodised aluminium, which contributes to the instrument's weight and resonance.

Does the comb have any aesthetic features?

Yes, the back of the black anodised aluminium comb features a beautiful laser-engraved logo.

Is this harmonica suitable for playing without an amplifier?

Yes, the design produces a powerful and brilliant sound that makes it a perfect soloing harmonica even without amplification.

What makes the 1847 Noble different from the standard 1847 series?

The Noble is considered the 'crown jewel' of the series, featuring upgraded materials like the anodised aluminium comb for a more premium experience.

Is the Seydel 1847 Noble hand-made?

Yes, Seydel still hand-crafts these harmonicas in Germany to guarantee high quality and precision.

How does the metal comb affect the sound?

The aluminium comb helps produce a clear, brilliant, and powerful sound, particularly in the soprano range of the High G tuning.

What is the typical price range for this harmonica?

The typical price for this premium model is approximately GBP 107.

How does this compare to a standard G harmonica?

The High G version is tuned an octave higher than a standard G harmonica and uses a thinner comb to better suit the higher frequencies.

Gear article

Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica (High G)

The Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica in High G is a premium, hand-crafted diatonic instrument manufactured in Germany. As the flagship of the 1847 series, it features a black anodised aluminium comb and stainless steel reeds, specifically designed for high-pitch soloing and maximum projection.

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Overview

The Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica is positioned as the 'crown jewel' of the 1847 series, representing over 160 years of German manufacturing expertise. This specific model is a soprano-tuned instrument in the key of High G, engineered to provide a professional-grade experience for performers seeking high-frequency clarity and structural durability. It is hand-crafted to ensure precision in airtightness and reed response.

Design and Construction

A defining feature of the High G Noble is its redesigned comb. Unlike standard models that typically use a 6.2mm comb, this version utilises a thinner 5.2mm comb. This modification is specifically intended to enhance the brilliance of the soprano range. The comb is constructed from black anodised aluminium, providing weight and stability, and features a laser-engraved logo on the back. The use of stainless steel reeds—a signature of the Seydel brand—ensures the instrument remains corrosion-resistant and retains its tuning for longer periods compared to traditional brass reeds.

Sound and Performance

The combination of the metal comb and stainless steel reeds results in a powerful, brilliant sound profile. Due to its high-pitched tuning, the High G Noble is capable of cutting through an ensemble mix even without the aid of an amplifier. The airflow is optimised by the precision-milled comb, facilitating fast response times for soloing. The tonal character is bright and piercing, suitable for lead melodies and intricate blues runs.

Target Audience

This instrument is designed for professional musicians and advanced hobbyists who require a reliable soloing instrument. Its robust construction makes it suitable for frequent touring and high-pressure performance environments. Because it is tuned to High G, it is particularly effective for players who need to reach registers higher than those offered by standard G harmonicas.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard harmonicas like the Fender Blues Deluxe, the Seydel 1847 Noble offers superior material longevity due to its stainless steel reeds and aluminium comb. While entry-level instruments often use plastic combs and brass reeds, the Noble is built for premium tactile feel and tonal brilliance. In the context of hand-held acoustic instruments, it provides a much more focused melodic range than rhythmic tools like Meinl maracas or shakers, occupying a unique space in the 'hand percussion' and wind category for its ability to lead a performance.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the Seydel 1847 Noble manufactured?: The Seydel 1847 Noble is hand-crafted in Germany, drawing on the manufacturer's experience of over 160 years in the industry.
What is the specific key of this model?: This specific model is tuned to the key of High G, making it a soprano-tuned harmonica.
How does the comb thickness differ on the High G model?: The High G model features a redesigned thinner comb of 5.2mm, whereas standard models typically use a 6.2mm comb.
What material is used for the reeds?: The instrument uses Seydel's famed stainless steel reeds, which are known for their durability and bright tone.
What material is the comb made from?: The comb is made from black anodised aluminium, which contributes to the instrument's weight and resonance.
Does the comb have any aesthetic features?: Yes, the back of the black anodised aluminium comb features a beautiful laser-engraved logo.
Is this harmonica suitable for playing without an amplifier?: Yes, the design produces a powerful and brilliant sound that makes it a perfect soloing harmonica even without amplification.
What makes the 1847 Noble different from the standard 1847 series?: The Noble is considered the 'crown jewel' of the series, featuring upgraded materials like the anodised aluminium comb for a more premium experience.
Is the Seydel 1847 Noble hand-made?: Yes, Seydel still hand-crafts these harmonicas in Germany to guarantee high quality and precision.
How does the metal comb affect the sound?: The aluminium comb helps produce a clear, brilliant, and powerful sound, particularly in the soprano range of the High G tuning.
What is the typical price range for this harmonica?: The typical price for this premium model is approximately GBP 107.
How does this compare to a standard G harmonica?: The High G version is tuned an octave higher than a standard G harmonica and uses a thinner comb to better suit the higher frequencies.