Where is the Seydel 1847 Noble manufactured?

The Seydel 1847 Noble is hand-crafted in Germany. The company has a history of harmonica manufacturing spanning over 160 years in the region.

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

The comb is made from black anodised aluminium. This material is chosen for its durability, moisture resistance, and the bright tonal quality it contributes to the instrument.

What is the purpose of the side-vents on the cover plates?

The side-vents are designed to optimise sound projection. This is particularly useful when the player is using a cupped-hand technique, as it allows sound to escape the sides of the instrument.

How can I tell if I am holding the harmonica the right way in the dark?

Seydel uses specific oval-shaped key stickers on the Noble series. These serve as a tactile and visual guide to ensure the player does not hold the instrument upside down.

What makes the Low Bb version different from a standard Bb?

The Low Bb version is tuned one octave lower than a standard Bb harmonica. This provides a deeper, growling tone often used in low-register blues and folk music.

Are the cover plates shiny or matte?

The cover plates feature a matted stainless steel finish. This provides a 'scintillating' aesthetic while being less prone to visible fingerprints than high-polish finishes.

What is the typical price for this model in the UK?

The typical price for the Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica is approximately £92. This places it in the premium tier of professional harmonicas.

Is this harmonica suitable for beginners?

While it is a premium professional instrument, its high-quality construction makes it easy to play. However, beginners may find the £92 price point high compared to entry-level models like the Fender Blues Deluxe.

Does the aluminium comb affect the sound compared to wood?

Yes, aluminium combs typically offer a brighter sound and faster response than wood. They also do not swell or warp when exposed to moisture from breath.

What series does this harmonica belong to?

It belongs to the 1847 series, which Seydel considers their flagship line. The Noble is specifically marketed as the 'crown jewel' of this particular series.

Can the Seydel Noble be used for amplified blues?

Yes, it is highly suitable for amplified blues. The side-vented design and airtight construction allow it to perform well when played through a harmonica microphone.

Is there any branding on the comb?

Yes, the black anodised aluminium comb features a laser-engraved Seydel logo on the back. This serves as a hallmark of its premium construction.

Gear article

Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica (Low Bb)

The Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica in Low Bb is a premium, hand-crafted diatonic instrument manufactured in Germany. As the flagship model of the 1847 series, it features an anodised aluminium comb and stainless steel cover plates designed for professional performance.

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Overview and History

The Seydel 1847 Noble Blues harmonica represents the pinnacle of the 1847 series, reflecting over 160 years of manufacturing expertise. Hand-crafted in Germany, the Noble model was developed to provide a high-end alternative within the 1847 lineage, incorporating modern materials and ergonomic refinements while maintaining the traditional blues harmonica format.

This specific model is tuned to the key of Low Bb, offering a deeper tonal range compared to standard soprano harmonicas. It is marketed as the 'crown jewel' of the Seydel range, emphasising durability and precision engineering.

Construction and Key Features

The instrument is distinguished by several unique design choices:

Comb: Unlike wooden or plastic models, the Noble uses a black anodised aluminium comb. This provides significant structural rigidity and a distinct aesthetic, finished with a laser-engraved logo on the rear.
Cover Plates: The matted stainless steel cover plates are designed for durability and comfort. They include integrated side-vents, which are intended to optimise sound projection even when the player is using a fully cupped hand technique.
Ergonomics: To assist players in low-light environments, Seydel utilises oval-shaped key stickers. This tactile and visual cue ensures the instrument is oriented correctly before playing.

Sound Character and Performance

The combination of the aluminium comb and stainless steel components results in a bright, responsive, and clear tone. Because this is the Low Bb version, it produces a resonant, bass-heavy sound that is well-suited for acoustic blues and accompaniment where a standard Bb might be too piercing.

The side-vented covers play a critical role in the instrument's acoustic footprint, allowing for a broader spread of sound and greater volume when playing unamplified. The precision machining of the German-made components ensures high airtightness, facilitating easier note bending and expressive play.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Seydel range, the 1847 Noble sits above the Classic and Silver models due to its metallic comb construction. While the Fender Blues Deluxe Harmonica in A provides a more entry-level, traditional experience at a lower price point, the Noble is aimed at professionals requiring long-term reliability and specific low-tuning options.

Compared to other instruments in a percussion or acoustic set—such as the Sonor NG31 Glockenspiel or various Meinl shakers—the Seydel Noble is a highly specialized melodic tool. Its price point of approximately £92 reflects its status as a premium European-made instrument rather than a mass-produced alternative.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the Seydel 1847 Noble manufactured?: The Seydel 1847 Noble is hand-crafted in Germany. The company has a history of harmonica manufacturing spanning over 160 years in the region.
What material is used for the comb of the Noble series?: The comb is made from black anodised aluminium. This material is chosen for its durability, moisture resistance, and the bright tonal quality it contributes to the instrument.
What is the purpose of the side-vents on the cover plates?: The side-vents are designed to optimise sound projection. This is particularly useful when the player is using a cupped-hand technique, as it allows sound to escape the sides of the instrument.
How can I tell if I am holding the harmonica the right way in the dark?: Seydel uses specific oval-shaped key stickers on the Noble series. These serve as a tactile and visual guide to ensure the player does not hold the instrument upside down.
What makes the Low Bb version different from a standard Bb?: The Low Bb version is tuned one octave lower than a standard Bb harmonica. This provides a deeper, growling tone often used in low-register blues and folk music.
Are the cover plates shiny or matte?: The cover plates feature a matted stainless steel finish. This provides a 'scintillating' aesthetic while being less prone to visible fingerprints than high-polish finishes.
What is the typical price for this model in the UK?: The typical price for the Seydel 1847 Noble Blues Harmonica is approximately £92. This places it in the premium tier of professional harmonicas.
Is this harmonica suitable for beginners?: While it is a premium professional instrument, its high-quality construction makes it easy to play. However, beginners may find the £92 price point high compared to entry-level models like the Fender Blues Deluxe.
Does the aluminium comb affect the sound compared to wood?: Yes, aluminium combs typically offer a brighter sound and faster response than wood. They also do not swell or warp when exposed to moisture from breath.
What series does this harmonica belong to?: It belongs to the 1847 series, which Seydel considers their flagship line. The Noble is specifically marketed as the 'crown jewel' of this particular series.
Can the Seydel Noble be used for amplified blues?: Yes, it is highly suitable for amplified blues. The side-vented design and airtight construction allow it to perform well when played through a harmonica microphone.
Is there any branding on the comb?: Yes, the black anodised aluminium comb features a laser-engraved Seydel logo on the back. This serves as a hallmark of its premium construction.