Custom Seydel Harmonicas

Playing a custom harmonica has many benefits… but playing a Seydel 1847 Harmonica is even better. All the Seydel harmonicas are top performers for the blues style music that I love but the 1847 holds a special place in my case. First thing anyone would mention about the 1847 is the Stainless Steel Reeds. Most harmonica reeds are made of brass and a few are made of bronze. But only one harmonica line/manufacturer uses Stainless Steel. In comparison to the brass the Stainless Steel lasts much longer. I have a pro player who bought his first harmonicas in 2008 and didn’t need a reed replacement until this year (2010)…. he plays everyday either practicing of gigging. They’re perfect for a hard driving blues player. The Stainless Steel reeds are very responsive when set up correctly and they’re louder. Which is really great for acoustic situations. You can really lean into this harmonica.

Charlie Musselwhite plays a Seydel.

But that’s not all the 1847 has to offer. It has a sealed hardwood Maple comb that has been contoured and shaped at each hole for playing comfort. All the edges are rounded and I go even farther and remove all the sharp edges. The cover plate is Stainless Steel and it has been opened wide for great projection. And all the screws that hold the reed plates on are Stainless Steel reducing corrosion and extending the life of the harmonica. The reed plates are German Silver for more corrosion resistance. In fact the 1847 Silver with the white, solid plastic comb can be put in the dishwasher after every gig!

After I finish modifying your harmonica you can expect it to be very responsive. You can put the softest breath pressure on the reed and activate it. The harmonica will bend easier, play louder. and stay in tune longer.

All my harmonicas are set up to play the blues. On the 1847 I take the time and care you would expect to pay on a very expensive overblow specific custom harmonica. I stand by my harmonicas and will work to make you happy. My goal from the beginning has been to be a positive influence in the blues harmonica community. Please feel free to call me or contact me through the contact form on this web site and I’ll be glad to help you get the best 1847 you can play. One more thing… I’m a Seydel Distributor so if you would like to buy a stock harmonica please call me. Every stock harmonica that leaves my shop will be checked by me to play like it’s supposed to play out of the box. No duds!