Hello all, Completed my Beginner to Boss course with Luke a month or so ago, it was great and so was Luke. With that said, I started out with the Easttop 008 in C, and have the 7 piece set from A-G. About half way thru the course I got a bug and purchased a Special 20 in C, I had no problem with the Easttop, still use it on long car trips, but the Special 20 is my go to. I’m a work in progress for sure, not sure how to judge my level just yet but I’ve really been getting into slow blues type tunes and some slow to medium speed songs as well. Working on speed, and I can start to feel it coming around some. So I kinda got a bug about trying my first Low Key harp and my question is what would be a good choice in key and in brand? Please consider I don’t plan on getting another anytime soon. I don’t play in a band and since this may be the only Low key I may ever buy or want, my price range can be anywhere from $50-$100. I appreciate your input, Thanks, Charlie from the 504, NOLA!
Do you mean ‘Low tuned’? There’s been a bit of chat about them, so you could search for some info. I have a rocket LD. I don’t regret buying it, but I could live without it.
Yes, I suppose the LD would be an octave lower than the regular D is my understanding anyway, and it’s the one I am leaning towards because it’s sort of in the middle. From what you said I guess it’s not a harp you would play everyday like a regular tuned harp. I guess it’s more of a want thing rather than need. Just thought it would sound different and cool once in a while. Thanks for your input.
You need lungs like an Olympic rower to play the damn thing. I use it for a breathing exercise and to play a couple of funky tunes. It’s very looooow. A bit of a novelty, but if you find the right tune, it can sound cool.
I’d go with a Low C , after all , thats the key you’re use too
You might consider trying an East Top Lucky13. Holes 1-3 one octave lower, then holes 4-13 , regular tuned.
I have several of these. Really a great idea, but I find their tonal quality not that rich and full like with, for example, Seydel or even other Easttop models. But for the price, I shouldn’t be complaining …
I have a Bb and its the best playing harp I have.
Thanks for the replies and suggestions, I know it’s more of a personal thing but being new to the harp world I just thought I’d ask. Someone suggested a Low E, since I’m kinda stuck between a Low F and D, maybe a Low E may be it. I’ve never played a Low tuned harp before, Still learning and jamming on my C sp 20 and sometimes throw in an A, G, D or another easttop key I may have just to hear what they sound like. I’ll add that I’m not that well winded, so if it takes a lot of wind a Low C may be too much for me. On the other hand if it’s not low enough like maybe a Low F might be then it’s another waste if I can’t get the low sound I would like. So maybe a low E could be the one, if anyone has one or played a Low E, Can you tell me if it’s playable without an a huge amount of wind needed and what type of music it’s best used for? I like to play bluesy tunes and some older rock melodies slow to medium speed, for now at least. Thanks so much, Charlie
Low E plays blues in B so not very many tunes in B if you’re playing 2nd position.
If you’re playing mostly first position Low E is a great choice!
Lee Oskar is the cheapest. There what’d I recommend for your first.
Thunderbird is my favorite tone, but quality control ain’t great.
Rocket Low’s are in the middle price wise.
Thanks Luke, I’m a little lost on this forum, trying to figure it out what goes where. Anyway, By the time I found your message I had already ordered the seydel session steel LF. It will take some getting use to but it’s pretty cool sounding to me, even the LF which i guess is about the highest low available. It’s not something I’ll play with everyday but it’ll come in handy at times I’m sure. I’m just kinda curious about how the low harps sound and play and I need a little distraction sometimes from my sp20 C and a set of A thru G (7) in Easttop 008’s which I also use to explore with. I’m not going to be playing with a band or anything, just a 1 man band so I don’t need any special keys to match anyone else, I just pick a key that sounds good to me for whatever tune I’m practicing and go with it.
I’m about to start the blues course soon, looking forward to it.
PS: My condolences to JP’s Family, you (Luke) and everyone associated with Harmonica.com, I was not aware of JP’s passing until recently, so sorry.
Charlie from the 504 - NOLA
Hey Charlie, thank you so much for your message. I really appreciate it! 
Yeah, the LF is a great way to get into low tuned Harmonica’s and is probably most practical for playing alone or in a duo setting as it can be a bit challenging for it to cut through the mix when you’re playing with a full band.
I feel you, staying low-key is a must. Don’t wanna draw to much attention to yourself… oh harmonica low keys. I got you. I like low F , G , and D
I had no idea. Man I’m sorry I love you guys. Big hugs from me, Brother. Fuck I was joking earlier that somebody made me cry on the forum. Peace, love, and light fly high JP
That’s the route I took when I started with the beginner program, and then I moved to the JP blues crash course. They will fine-tune your fundamentals and help you find your sound! I always come back to these lessons when I am a little off and need some structure, and they are always here for you help make your journey a little easier.