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From: fjm/cja
Date: Tue, 27 Aug 1996 08:08:13 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: still worried about cuts in ZSA5

I just recently broke down and bought some of the current Hohner ZA5 Big
River harmonica production. I'm disappointed, the tuning is very
inconsistent and the action is balky. They also flat too easily. As for
the tuning artifacts no deep gouges on mine. Neatly filed pads with the
occasional fixed end light scratch. I'm awaiting the arrival of the
Martin wooden bodied MS Hohners. Perhaps they'll arrive in a more
playable condition. I must say that my complaints are not anything that
would bother an intermediate or begining player. Getting the tuning
consistent does seem fairly basic though.

On the subject of whistles I wish to report a Filisko that is very
subject to both pops and whistles. A very responsive harmonica that is
difficult to play. The reeds whistle on deep bends and overblows do a
metallic pop at intervals. I'll try the varnish/wax trick to see if it
helps. BTW This difficult harmonica is the one I play almost
exclusively. I find the benefits outweigh the trouble it takes to get
the thing to play evenly. This is this harmonicas second incarnation.
The original was easier to play but lacked the range of expression this
one has. It's a square holed brass bodied Filisko with his covers and an
older Special 20 plate in the key of A. I'm finding myself playing
almost everything on this one harmonica. Like Mike's valved C this is
becoming my key of choice. The way I figure keys is to compare the music
to the A I hear in my head. Consequently I relate most music to an A
harmonica. Positions and overblows get me most of it. This is not
anything I'd do on a stage but I'm headed that direction. I like the A
because of the fact that you get 20 useful reeds to play. Even the 10
blow is useable. fjm