Looks Like A Novelty Harmonica But Plays Like A Champ
Not long ago, I Voxed about ignoring holes 7 - 10 on your diatonic harmonica. See below. I have a German buddy in this campaign: Seydel offers a harp called Big Six.
You can accurately guess how many holes this harp has, can't you? Six. What an efficient little blues machine. Let's talk about it.
Price
I paid a little more than $30. That's on the high side for me and harp purchases. I tend to shop in the $15 - $25 harp aisle.
First Impression
The harp arrives sealed in a can. You pop the top like you are getting ready to enjoy some mixed nuts. You instead find your Big Six and a lanyard which allows you to wear your Big Six around your neck. Fun and novelty-ish.
Feel
The small size feels odd. But not for long. Fool around with your Big Six for a couple of days, and you will discover a grip you like.
Sound
I avoid rating a harp's sound because I believe the player is most responsible for sound. Instead, I focus on responsiveness. Does this thing respond to my efforts? Do I have to work too hard? I am pleased to report my Big Six is indeed responsive. It's available in the key of C.
I am happy with my Big Six purchase. I like moving up toward the six hole knowing that I am not going to drift into seven hole territory. This is a neat option, and it fits into the "compact car only" space in your harp gear.
P.S. I have a CD on my shelf by a British rockabilly act called The Big Six. This 1996 release called Ready To Rock is highly recommended. It's got nothing to do with beginner blues harp playing or Seydel or anything. They just share a cool name.