In a message dated 96-06-05 13:35:26 EDT, Epping writes:
>RE: 7565 Meisterklasse >There have been a number of requests for this l4-hole chromatic. As the >tooling still exists, the factory is considering bringing the Meisterklasse chromatic >back into production, with a redesigned and improved comb. For those >unfamiliar with it, it is tuned to the key of C, the scale beginning on G below Middle >C. Any interest? > Oh yes!! Here is a hearty endorsement for a 14-holer in C. I will buy one the instant it is available. Many pieces have a few low notes just below middle C. Since you can make 270's in G, I assume that the harp is a 'stretch' version of the 270. I assume that it is the greater length and excursion of the reeds in the bottom two holes that require the wider and thicker dimensions of the 280, and cupped windsavers.
Because the low half of the bottom octave of a 280 is so weak, and because the 280 is such a monster, it seems to me that a 14-hole chromatic could replace not only the 12 hole but also the 16-hole models for most players. Any beginner wanting a less-expensive chromatic could use a 260 or Chrometta.
I hope that "improved comb" means plastic with screwed-on reedplates. I hope that it also means that the coverplate screws are threaded into the comb. Threaded metal inserts in a plastic comb would bring replacing windsavers and replacing reedplates within the reach of most players and would add greatly to the value of the instrument. Nails and through-bolts with nuts are abominations!
