The Marine Band 1896 is the harmonica of the archetype of the blues. Almost unchanged since it was patented in 1896, this iconic instrument embodies real deep blues like no other and is the benchmark against which everyone else is judged.
Initially designed for European folk music, it quickly became a prominent voice of the early twentieth century American blues, played by all the harmonic musicians of this era. It's the soundtrack of broken hearts and dances all night, endless meadows and sweaty nightclubs.
Like no other harmonica, the Marine Band 1896 is an invitation to express yourself in music, a key to unlocking your creativity. When you discover this part of the living musical history, you won't just play blues. You'll feel the blues.
Characteristic
• Reed plates and covers are nailed together for the traditional look and feel.
• Curved decks with side openings for the original blues sound
• Comb sealed with 2 layers of clear lacquer to reduce swelling
Technical details
Sheet plates (material, thickness) | Brass, 0.9 mm |
Sheet plates (surface) | LiterAton |
Rods (number, material) | 20, brass |
Comb (material, color) | Pear, Brown |
Comb (finished) | Double lacquered |
Nozzle (surface) | Pear wood |
Cover plates | Stainless steel |
Tuning | A, Bb, C, Db, D, Eb, E, F, F#, G, G# |
Type | Diatonic |
Number of holes | 10 |
Tonal range | 3 octaves |
Go away | 10cm / 3.9"" |