Best C.A. Seydel Söhne Nonslider Chromatic Solo LD Alternatives

Based on 5 reviews

I have been using Hohner Chromatic Harmonicas for 60 years, and their lifespan leave a lot to be desired. I found myself requiring to buy a new one frequently, rather than having them repaired. Sticking reeds was always a problem, and in the end, the harmonica can be an expensive instrument over the years. I decided to try a Seydel Chromatic, thinking it surely must last as long as the Hohner. I chose a 12 hole in C. The quality was excellent. I was surprised by how solidly it felt to handle, and the sound was superb. Because of this I decided to buy a Seydel Sohne Saxony Orchestra 12 hole, and for the price, it is one of the best Harmonicas that I have ever played. Of all the Harmonicas that I have at the moment, this is the one I play the most. I can only hope that it outlives the rest...

Based on 3 reviews

I purchased the C.A. Seydel Söhne Saxony Chromatic Harp C, and overall, I'm quite satisfied with its performance. This harmonica offers a smooth and responsive playing experience, making it a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced players alike. The instrument's construction is sturdy, and it feels well-built in my hands. The chromatic capabilities are impressive, allowing for a wide range of musical expression. The tonal quality is rich, and it performs admirably across different musical genres. However, I did encounter a minor issue with the drawn note on F in the lower octave. It seems that there is some inconsistency or difficulty in achieving the desired sound on this specific note. While this doesn't significantly impact the overall playability of the harmonica,...

Based on 2 reviews

The CX12 Jazz is a lovely instrument to play - very airtight, good slide action that always works and doesnt need ungumming every other time you pick it up. This is my second one.. had one before and sold it on. I got another because it's a very good harp to learn and improve on.. I seem to make much quicker progress on it than a "normal" chrom. Only downsides are 1. i find it a bit fat and not easy to hold, certainly not to cup and do hand wahs, and 2. the sound is a bit plasticky. But it's very loud, very responsive, and a joy to play. Looks good too. With this one haven't so far had any sticky windsaver problems... which i did with the other.

Based on 2 reviews

Weighing in at 448gm or 15 ? oz. this has got to be about the heaviest 16 hole chromatic on the market. So what do you get in return for all this weight? It feels very comfortable and solid in the hand. The tone is superb, whether played at low or high volume, and this is the loudest chromatic I have ever played. The top 8 holes allow you to bend the notes fairly easily to produce a good blues sound. All the reeds have windsavers, except the top 2 on each reedplate, they work well and silently, so there is very little air loss, and you do not end up gasping. The quality of workmanship and material is excellent. The slider return spring arrangement is very innovative and allows the removal of the slider for cleaning without the usual complete dismantling of the mouthpiece. Also when...

Based on 1 reviews

I am very happy with the purchase of my new harmonica. Besides it's solid and durable build, I really like it's playability, shape and sound. I put only 4 stars on features, because the funcionality of the new magnetic slide (which is not so strong when pushing out), depends a little more than others on having a clean harmonica. Also the slider seemed to have some issue with the rubber screw gaskets inside. Good thing you can supply with a spring. It is a large harmonica compared to many other 12 holes for small hands, but I guess most will get used to that. Thumbs up!

Based on 1 reviews

No moving parts, strong and rust-resistant materials, no valves (in Solo-C version). You can clean it by pouring tap water inside. Throw it in a backpack, play it cold, store it wet: no problem. Rustic instrument, yet it responds to soft breath consistently across the range. The reeds produce bright tones if slightly strident, similar to a Seydel Saxony but less "full". Holes are smaller but spaced like a normal harmonica. Recommended for beginners *if* you pick up a slider chromatic to practice alongside with it. You will appreciate ease of play and consistency, it is a forgiving instrument. Advanced players will appreciate the challenge of adapting their playing technique. Important note: some versions of the Nonslider are valved, check Seydel's website.

Based on 1 reviews

I bought my first Suzuki chromatic in 2015, and loved it immediately. It's solid and well-made harmonica with sweet sound. But the most important part for me is the quality and manufacturing. Made in Japan, this harmonica has unique and simple mouthpiece design, which allows you quickly disassemble it for lubrication and cleaning. The slide is very quiet as well which is also very important if you play through microphone. I had 12 hole Hohner Chromonicas, and didn't like them because of weak chrome mouthpiece coating , and I had 16 Super Chormonica which was comparable in quality with Suzuki and had excellent silver coating on mouthpiece, but 16 holes were too much for me. But this Suzuki is much better in my opinion. Highly recommended!

Based on 1 reviews

Very pretty instrument. I bought it as an alternative to Hohner and also because it has just 12 holes rather than 16 as on my previous model. It comes in a black case which contrasts with the silver finish and the Seydel name adds a touch of class. It almost resembles a piece of jewelry and would make a nice gift. In fact, if you cannot afford to buy your wife or mistress a diamond necklace buy her one of these instead. See what happens. Overall, a very pretty instrument which looks and sounds very good.

Based on 1 reviews

i bought the Xpression 48 because i needed a second chromatic, next to my Hohner Super 64 Performance - of which i am rather protective - to carry with me wherever i go, so i can practice and play whenever i want, and as a spare instrument in case i run into a problem with my Super 64. it doesn't sound as good as the Super 64 - especially for ballads and mellow tunes - but for a regularly priced chromatic you get good value for your money. the response is good and fast. the straight tuning and short slider action adds to that. the sound is crisp and quite loud for a 'small' chromatic. i had to get used to a strong slider spring again, but that didn't bother me, nor did it really hinder my playing. although a light and compact instrument, it feels like one smooth solid block of music...

Based on 1 reviews

Ordered Suzuki and Hohner CX12 at the same time. Suzuki OK, just a couple of highest notes responding badly for now. The rest good. Low notes responding very well but valves are a bit loud. Hopefully it's me, i need to learn how to play them ( never tried 16 hole harmonica before). Hohner: its box had opened during shipment somehow and during playing it had a lot of shh, hiss, air loss. I dismantled it and after 1 hour managed to fix it - small white rubber part of slide mechanism wasn't on its place. Highest notes also responding badly so I think it's my fault, not harmonica's. So both harmonicas OK I suppose. Will try to improve my technique first, and then judge more properly.