Hello everyone,
I am teetering on updating my set of 12 Easttop 008k. I’m looking at Hohner Special 20 or the Hohner Rocket. @ny thoughts or suggestions on which of the 2 I should get. I have 1 Special 20 (Key of C) and I like it. I’ve never owned a Hohner Rocket, which is why I’m seeking advice.
Thanks,
Don.
Hi @DonC, I have Special 20s and all three Rocket models. I love the Rockets. My vote is for the Rocket Amp. It’s a few dollars more than a S20, but still not an expensive musical instrument. Try an A or Bb, I doubt you would be disappointed.
Have you considered Lee Oskar or Seydel?
In my opinion, both are much higher quality and about the same price.
Hi @DonC
My experience is that the best tonal quality is with Hohner Rockets, Seydel 1847 models (more expensive, but good quality), or Hohner Golden Melody harps. All blow Lee Oskar away.
I think what you said is true, but I think the most durable harps are probably LO. I ran my A harp hard for 2 years, and probably could have longer. I can’t say the same on other brands.
At the moment, I’m sticking with Hohner. Perhaps I’ll try Lee Oskar later in my harmonica journey.
Thanks,
Don.
I like my Crossovers the most but they are less forgiving as the holes are smaller but when a note it played well the sound is hard to beat. I do replace the wooden comb as moisture and porous wood are a problem. I can just dip my harps in alcohol and in ten seconds they are good to go. I am of the opinion warming a harp before playing it helps, especially on the higher draws.
@DonC I prefer Special 20. Seems like people with bigger hands and/or mouths prefer the Rocket. Some people find it easier to play single notes on the Rocket. I think SP20 is the most bendable.
If I were buying a Rocket, I also prefer the Rocket Amp.
But for me, Marine Band Deluxe and Special 20 are my favorite Horner’s.
Luke
You seemed to always like the Crossover. I have both and feel the Crossover is tougher to play but the Special 20 is easier for single notes but just does not seem to sound as good as a Crossover. Your thoughts? I am getting a Rocket to see how it plays and hopefully it will be the best of two worlds.
I have one L O and it is seldom played as it is like playing a match box and the notes are none as good as a Crossover. I will say the Oskar is easy to lay any note on but the shape and sound are not for me.
My favorite Hohner is the Marine Band Deluxe. but yeah, the Rocket might be the best of both world from how you’re describing it!