Where is the Seydel 1847 Session Steel manufactured?

The harmonica is handmade in Germany by C.A. Seydel Söhne, the world's oldest harmonica manufacturer.

What makes the reeds in this harmonica unique?

It uses stainless steel reeds rather than traditional brass. These reeds are corrosion-resistant and offer greater tuning stability under stress.

What is the benefit of the ABS comb?

The ABS plastic comb is completely moisture-proof and will not swell or warp over time like wooden combs.

What genres is the Melodic Maker tuning best for?

It is specifically designed for country, folk, jazz, and blues styles where melodic lines are prominent.

Is a case included with the purchase?

Yes, the Seydel 1847 Session Steel typically includes a leather pouch for protection and transport.

What is the typical price for this model?

The current market price is approximately £71 in the UK.

What key is this specific Melodic Maker harmonica in?

This specific model is tuned to the key of D-flat (Db).

How does the sound compare to brass reed harmonicas?

The stainless steel reeds produce a sound that is full, loud, and particularly rich in overtones compared to standard brass.

Can beginners use the Seydel Session Steel?

Yes, it is marketed as an accessible instrument for learning because of its ergonomic design and stable tuning.

What materials are used for the reed plates?

The reed plates are made from German silver, a material chosen for its durability and resistance to oxidation.

Is the Session Steel part of Seydel's premium range?

Yes, it shares the same high-quality stainless steel reeds and German craftsmanship as Seydel’s most expensive professional models.

Gear article

Seydel 1847 Session Steel Melodic Maker Harmonica

The Seydel 1847 Session Steel Melodic Maker is a professional-grade diatonic harmonica handmade in Germany, featuring corrosion-resistant stainless steel reeds. Designed specifically for genres such as country, folk, jazz, and blues, this model utilizes the 'Melodic Maker' tuning to facilitate easier melodic play in the D-flat key.

See live prices

Overview and Design

The Seydel 1847 Session Steel is a high-performance harmonica crafted to withstand heavy usage. Unlike traditional harmonicas that use brass reeds, this instrument features Seydel’s signature stainless steel reeds, which are known for their durability and tuning stability. The construction is entirely corrosion-resistant, utilizing an ABS plastic comb, German silver reed plates, and stainless steel screws to ensure longevity even in humid conditions or under heavy saliva exposure.

Melodic Maker Tuning

This specific variant employs the Melodic Maker tuning, which differs from the standard Richter tuning found on most blues harmonicas. The Melodic Maker configuration is intended to make playing complex melodies in country, folk, and jazz more intuitive. By altering specific notes in the scale, it allows players to navigate major scales and relative minor scales with fewer difficult techniques like overblowing, making it an accessible choice for learners and professionals alike.

Sound and Performance

The use of stainless steel reeds gives the Session Steel a distinctive acoustic character. The sound is described as full and rich in overtones, providing a bright projection that cuts through in live session environments. Because the reeds are resistant to stress, they maintain their pitch longer than brass alternatives, even when played with the high breath pressure common in blues and rock styles.

Target Audience and Comparison

While beginners often start with basic models like the Fender Blues Deluxe, the Session Steel is positioned as a premium upgrade for those seeking a 'lifetime' instrument. It sits in a similar tier of specialist instruments as the Sonor Orff glockenspiels or Meinl Planetary bowls, where material quality is prioritized. It is particularly suited for players who find standard diatonic layouts limiting for melodic improvisation in keys like D-flat.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Seydel 1847 Session Steel manufactured?: The harmonica is handmade in Germany by C.A. Seydel Söhne, the world's oldest harmonica manufacturer.
What makes the reeds in this harmonica unique?: It uses stainless steel reeds rather than traditional brass. These reeds are corrosion-resistant and offer greater tuning stability under stress.
What is the benefit of the ABS comb?: The ABS plastic comb is completely moisture-proof and will not swell or warp over time like wooden combs.
What genres is the Melodic Maker tuning best for?: It is specifically designed for country, folk, jazz, and blues styles where melodic lines are prominent.
How does this model handle corrosion?: Every part of the instrument, including the German silver reed plates and stainless steel screws, is designed to be corrosion-resistant.
Is a case included with the purchase?: Yes, the Seydel 1847 Session Steel typically includes a leather pouch for protection and transport.
What is the typical price for this model?: The current market price is approximately £71 in the UK.
What key is this specific Melodic Maker harmonica in?: This specific model is tuned to the key of D-flat (Db).
How does the sound compare to brass reed harmonicas?: The stainless steel reeds produce a sound that is full, loud, and particularly rich in overtones compared to standard brass.
Can beginners use the Seydel Session Steel?: Yes, it is marketed as an accessible instrument for learning because of its ergonomic design and stable tuning.
What materials are used for the reed plates?: The reed plates are made from German silver, a material chosen for its durability and resistance to oxidation.
Is the Session Steel part of Seydel's premium range?: Yes, it shares the same high-quality stainless steel reeds and German craftsmanship as Seydel’s most expensive professional models.