Header Graphic
Dirty-South Blues Harp forum: wail on! > Have you tried a Seydel 1847 Silver?
Have you tried a Seydel 1847 Silver?
Login  |  Register
Page: 1

snakes
106 posts
Feb 21, 2009
6:19 PM
I am thinking about picking one up as I can get a new one somewhat discounted due to a generic coupon I have for a music store. Was wondering if anyone had tried one and could tell me if they are really worth the money. (I am rewarding myself for escaping a layoff at work and enduring a total hip replacement within a two day period.) Please let me know if you have tried one and what your experience was - and bear in mind that the only Seydel they have is the 1847 Silver so other Seydel models won't qualify for my discount.) Thanks all
Ant138
67 posts
Feb 22, 2009
3:19 AM
I asked this question myself on here a few weeks ago but the responses turned into a discussion about custom harps, which im sure are good but i really like the look of the Seydel silvers and the wood comb 1847. I love the look of them so i say go for one. There are a few reviews on you tube if you type in seydel silver 1847. I ended up being slightly short of money in the end and ended up buying a Suzuki promaster in A which should be with me in a week or so. Let me know what they are like if you end up getting one.
oldwailer
525 posts
Feb 22, 2009
4:57 AM
Well, I don't have any Seydels--but I would go for it just based on all the reviews I've read--then you can tell me what I'm missing!

You'll probably save enough not drinking for 6 weeks to pay for it! ;-)
OEuropean
21 posts
Feb 22, 2009
7:16 AM
I am the proud owner of a Seydel 1847 silver.

A real masterpiece. High quality, robust, easy to maintain, beautiful, airtight, nice tone, very loud, easy to bend. Deutsche Gruendlichkeit.

The only disadvantage I experienced is that it is a rather thick instrument (I have a small mouth). I suppose that all Seydels are thick (I also own a Seydel Blues Session and it feels the same). A Hohner Marine Band is definitively thinner, feels much more comfortable and requires less effort to play. Of course this is a very personal thing and may not apply to you ...
oda
26 posts
Feb 22, 2009
11:03 AM
Hey Snakes,

I think you're a regular on this forum, I see you around much. So I'll assume you already know all the talk about custom harps and what-not and just wanna know if the '47 silver is good.
I've tried the silver and the classic (Wood) and I found that they're very similiar. The wood is so well sealed it feels like plastic -- the only difference I noticed was TASTE. So I'd say go for it, it's a great harp. It's thick (like oeurpean said) has great volume, and is super easy to bend! It has it's negative side, and I did have to gap the 3 hole and 6 hole -- but anyway, yeah you can get it at a good deal, so go for it bra.
snakes
110 posts
Feb 22, 2009
1:46 PM
Thanks everyone for your posts!

Ant138 - you are gonna love that Promaster. I have one and really like mine. They are a little thicker than the bluesmaster, but they are a nice harp.

OEuropean - thanks for the comments especially about the thickness. That is important to me. I am probably going to get it and hope it is not thicker than a Suzuki Promaster which seems to be a about my comfort limit.

oda - hopefully the taste will go away. I'm prone to play with a touch of cigar or bourbon breath and believe either may be the ultimate taste equalizer.

olwailer - your comment on monetary savings was actually already one of my rationalizations along with the coupon deadline. LOL!

Thanks much all!!!
mojojojo
13 posts
Feb 26, 2009
9:12 PM
I take one in the shower (my woodshed)...it's basically waterproof. Same good quality but the white color of the plastic comb is not the most attractive.
Randy G. Blues
4 posts
Feb 27, 2009
2:44 PM
I have 6 Seydel 1847 Classic (wood comb) harps. While every one was not perfectly set up (some re-gapping will eventually be required on a few reeds) the tone is excellent as is the playability. I switched from Bushman DFs and the difference is apparent. Was at a jam and had to play a DF because I did not have the proper key in my 1847 arsenal, and the Bushman felt like a toy. I am not at all sorry about the cost of the 1847s.

After I bought the first one I also purchased one "Silver" (plastic) comb. I A-B switched them, but I like the feel and sound of the wood better. The sound difference is slight, but the wood has better shape and mouth feel.. to me.

In the US, Rupert Oysler is great to deal with. If you have questions I recommend contacting him.
TheBlackNote
21 posts
May 15, 2009
8:14 PM
What is the difference between the seydel 1847+ and Seydel 1847 regular.
----------
myspace.com/theblacknote
Greg Heumann
36 posts
May 15, 2009
8:25 PM
I have several 1847 wood and a few with the plastic comb. I agree completely with what Randy G said above. I didn't notice any difference in feel between the wood and plastic; I felt the plastic is just a tiny bit brighter in sound but it is very subtle. I've been gigging with Seydel's for a year now and haven't lost a single harp. Once they're set up the way you like them they're rock reliable. And Rupert IS a GREAT guy.


----------
/Greg

http://www.BlowsMeAway.com
http://www.BlueStateBand.net

Last Edited by on May 23, 2009 11:46 PM
nacoran
7 posts
May 15, 2009
8:28 PM
According to the Seydel site the 1847+ has a recessed plate/cover fitting to make it more air tight. There isn't a good picture showing it.

If you use their harp finder it says that the regular silver can be low tuned down to LC, while the + can be tuned down to a LF, but if you go through the harp configurator feature it lets you order all the way down to double low F! I don't know if they will actually deliver it. I sure wish I had the cash to find out. (Actually, I'm thinking about asking for the + in LC for my birthday in a few months.)
LIP RIPPER
53 posts
May 16, 2009
12:21 PM
I have an 1847 in "A" & "D" and I've had both of them apart and embossed them as well as reed adjustments. For me it made a big difference.
I have one Promaster and it's heavy compared to all the others. I'm sure it's the alloy comb.

LR
snakes
224 posts
May 17, 2009
12:02 AM
Saw this thread pop back up so I thought I'd give a report back on the Sedel 1847 Silver. I like it. It has volume and gives the impression that it will last a good long while. I do think the 4 hole needs gapped as there are times that the 4 blow just does not emit sound. I like it, but recognize it needs work - gapping I guess. Anyway - looking to buy a dang screw driver. It bends nice and easy and my cigar breath did not notice a taste that was mentioned above. Coulda' been me... I am considering making Seydel my choice for the low keyed harmonicas. Would be nice to only have to buy one and be done so to speak. ((Time will tell whether the stainless steel reeds actually last longer.)
TheBlackNote
23 posts
May 17, 2009
1:51 AM
Also I love suzuki harmonicas but I am trying out Seydels.
----------
myspace.com/theblacknote
Philosofy
192 posts
May 18, 2009
4:39 PM
I have a B flat. There was a problem with 3 blow, and had to send it to Rupert to have it gapped. Its a good harp, but I've found the playability of my Suzuki Promaster (in D) is a little better. However, I've just ordered a customized Silver in A so I have a great harp to compare my upcoming attempts at customization against.
Bluzdude46
52 posts
May 20, 2009
2:11 PM
I've tried the 1847 wood and the silver. Very nice Harps, had to set the gaps a little tighter. They seem not as loud as SP-20's but that's not a big deal to me. I also tried the Favorites with the Aluminum comb, stainless steel reed plates and brass reeds and I really like them alot. Tighter then the 1847's. When I start replacing my Stage Harps I'll probably switch from SP-20's to the Favorites. Right now I'm using them and the 1847's for practice to see how they hold up.
Dublife
1 post
May 21, 2009
11:16 PM
I just bought a plastic one... it was $90... I think its okay... a little big for me... I would definatley....definatley... definatley... spend 65 more dollars and get a Harrison Harmonica... They are off the Hook! Like little grenades ready to detonate... I talked to Brad... he said he hates seydel and to have boughten a special 20 would have been better!... If you don't know what harrison harmonica are you should really check it out... Brad is one of the coolest people I've ever talked too... his new line of harmonicas are going to be all american... he told me even the machine parts to build them were all american! Jason Ricci Plays these harps too... I spent 162 dollars on one and that harmonica F*n screams!So loud and responsive... 1,oo0,ooo times better than seydel... only problem... takes about 3 months too come in the mail :) Hope all you harp players are having a killer day... if any of you are from southern cali... around Orange county... drop me a line... I'm hacksesh on youtube... I know a couple open mic nights! Hope your having a good day :) -Peace
Buddha
472 posts
May 22, 2009
6:35 AM
Seydel's don't suck. The 1847 is a very good out of the box harmonica. Do they play as well as a custom harp? NO, not even close.

Now the sp20 compared to the 1847? The sp20 will lose hands down.

I am a Seydel Dealer though I don't often advertise it. I can fix seydels and will customize them if you buy them through me.

The tweaked 1847 is a very very nice harp. They are also hard to work on without the proper tools. Of course, I have the proper tools to do it right.

PT Gazell plays seydel and I work on them for him. That alone should tell you all you need to know about my skills and he preference for a good harmonica.
snakes
238 posts
May 22, 2009
1:07 PM
Hmmmmm Buddha,
Would you be willing to work on my 1847 Silver if I sent it to you?
Buddha
476 posts
May 22, 2009
1:09 PM
yes snakes.

send me an email

Last Edited by on May 22, 2009 1:12 PM
TheBlackNote
51 posts
May 23, 2009
12:22 AM
Buddha how much is it for a Seydel silver 1847 custom.
----------
Listen to TheBlackNote
RHYTHMADDICT
1 post
Oct 17, 2009
2:29 PM
I'VE PLAYED FOR 35+ YEARS. I JUST BOUGHT 2 SEYDEL SILVER+ A & Bb.
WHILE THE TONE OUT OF THE BOX IS BETTER THAN MOST FACTORY TUNINGS, I'M COMPLETELY DIS-SATISFIED AT THE ''AIRINESS" OF THE INSTRUMENT.THE SIZE IS NO PROBLEM. THE HOLE SPACING & THE LACK OF NUMBERING IS NOT AN ISSUE. BUT....OUT OF THE BOX IT IS THE LEAKIEST HARP I'VE OWNED. WHATS MORE I DONT SEE A WAY TO ''FIX IT''
@ 90 BUCKS PLUS SHIPPING, IT'S THE MUST OVERPRICED EDSEL OF THE HARP WORLD. STICK TO MARINE BANDS & SPECIAL 20'S FOR PLAY-ABILITY & TWEAK -ABILITY. THE BEST "PRO'HARP OUT OF THE BOX IS THE SUZUKI PROMASTER. I GIG 2-3 NIGHTS A WEEK. THOSE 3 HARPS ARE MY BREAD & BUTTER . MAKE 'EM YOURS TOO. SAVE YOUR $90. & BUY 3 OF THE MB'S OR 2 OR THE PROMASTERS........YOU'LL BE GLAD YOU DID
harpwrench
105 posts
Oct 17, 2009
2:37 PM
I've had several requests for Seydels and finally gave in and built one for a customer with allergen issues. I got an 1847 Silver in A and it was one of the best out of the box harps I've gotten recently. After giving it the full treatment, it made a very fine harmonica indeed. I will be adding these to the lineup.
mickil
565 posts
Oct 17, 2009
3:12 PM
I've not read all the posts - am in a bit of a rush - but it's a beatiful harp: very loud; well made, no tacky feel to it; very comfy in the mouth and hand; unlike some harps, the G will cut through in a band; very nice tone, though that is always a matter of taste and tradition. I think they're worth every penny.

And, don't forget this is not a throw away item like some harps are. When a reed does finally go, it can be replaced, as can all the parts, directly from Seydel online.

EDIT: I've just noticed that the original post was written in Febuary. Oh well, the more info the better, I suppose.

EDIT EDIT: I just read oldwailer's post near the top. In the UK, an 1847 will only set you back about 20 pints of beer. That seems OK to me in the long term.
----------
YouTube SlimHarpMick

Last Edited by on Oct 17, 2009 3:22 PM
Buddha
1088 posts
Oct 17, 2009
3:44 PM
I build lots of 1847, they are great OOTB harps and end up being very nice instruments with a bit tweaking as Harpwrench says.
----------
~Buddha
Pennsylvania - H.A.R.P. (Harmonica Association 'Round Philly)
snakes
374 posts
Oct 18, 2009
1:01 PM
Thanks for the further comments. Since this post I've also purchased an 1847 with a wood comb. These are very nice harps, but I still like my Fire Breaths the best. The Suzuki's have smaller holes and make my tongue blocking attempts easier. I also like the feel of the Fire Breath better and the tone. It is not as loud, but that is okay. Both models of the 1847's are way loud.
528hemi
45 posts
Oct 18, 2009
6:21 PM
I often hear that "My promaster" is much better then "My Seydel" and "my SP20 is better then my Firebreath" and My "harmonica X" blows away My "Hamonica Y". I bought Every popular Suzuki, Seydel,Honer,a Hamond, Lee Oscar and compared them. I found that EVERY brand is inconsistant out of the box and without proper Gapping you can not compare them.
After gapping my SP20 I find it to me to respond very well and is my choice for my playing style. The promaster and Hammond sound good but I find the 1 hole to not project in volume compard to the SP20. The Seydel is nice but does not blow away a SP20 to my ears.

I still consider myself an advanced beginner and all my harps are not setup perfectly so even my comparison can be skewed.
My next harp is the Manji to see how it feels to me but I have a feeling it will not blow away everything else out there that are gapped correctly. I hope I am wrong.

528hemi
oldwailer
919 posts
Oct 18, 2009
8:20 PM
IMHO, if you are expecting an OOTB harp to be consistent, wonderful, and in tune--just go on dreaming--it sounds like a good one--maybe later a great blonde bombshell will show up and offer you truffles. . .
528hemi
46 posts
Oct 19, 2009
6:33 AM
Oldwailer,

I agree with you. That was my point that many beginners buy a harp or harps and expect it to play within reason. If ones buys a promaster or firebreath that happens to be a lemon and also buys a SP20 that is gapped better OOB they might conclude that the higher dollar harps are crap.

BTW: I actually had a Blonde show up at my door with truffles one night. Boy was she expensive. :)
Chris13058
3 posts
Sep 28, 2017
7:03 AM
Like the Seydel Silver a lot. My wife bought me my first one on our 25th (silver) wedding anniversary and soon I was buying more. Easy to play, durable reeds, great tone, responsive. What's not to like except maybe the price. But then I ran into the Yonberg D2 about 6 months ago. Same great Seydel stainless reeds, easier to disassemble and reassemble, slightly more airtight and less gunk buildup inside, slightly louder and cool looking. Oh yeah, they cost about $25 less too.
Andrew
1676 posts
Sep 28, 2017
7:05 AM
way to bump!
----------
Andrew.
-----------------------------------------
ejakon
91 posts
Sep 28, 2017
7:35 AM
I had to adjust mine because it wasnt very air tight OoTB, but it plays very crisp and clearly now. theyre not worth it and as durable as i thought so in the end just buy marine bands and when you have money, maybe turn them into custom harps
Dox
22 posts
Sep 29, 2017
1:35 AM
I play the '47 Silver only! But .... but ... they are the X-Tra Ben Bouman custom!

http://www.benboumanharmonicas.nl/

The '47 out-of-box and Bouman-custom are two different things !! Out of the box does not play bad at all but typically the 2 draw is not really easy to play and the overall playability is not at "maximum level".

After Bouman job, the '47 becomes killer harps !! A lot of air tightness, much simpler to play in all octave, more bending and overblow ready. This is true for any quality harp that undergoes expert hands !! They are not cheap, but a lot of quality and sound have to be paied.

Bye

Last Edited by Dox on Sep 29, 2017 1:37 AM
BnT
106 posts
Sep 29, 2017
2:24 PM
I played 1847 Silvers for a few years. The septuagenarian from Mississippi who worked the Seydel booth at SPAH 2009 got me with her line, "...The reeds are stainless steel. You can wash 'em in your dishwasher." That's all I needed to know. They were reliable and built to last. I never noticed the difference, but my guitar player would always note, "You played one of those Seydels on that song, didn't you?" Whatever the tonal difference was, I never noticed. I've been playing Suzuki Manji's for the past 4-5 years, but the Seydels remain a good practice harp for the car.
----------
BnT
AppalachiaBlues
75 posts
Sep 30, 2017
1:40 AM
funny to see this thread get revived 8 years later :-). I think the 1847 is now pretty well established in the harp community (compared to 2009 when it was still new).

Do any of you use 1847 covers on a Session Steel? This is essentially creating the old "Silver+" model. I am thinking about trying it out, wondering if the benefit is significant... any comments from experience would be appreciated.

Last Edited by AppalachiaBlues on Sep 30, 2017 1:43 AM
Raven
100 posts
Oct 03, 2017
7:20 AM
Only own one 1847. Can't get used to the thick covers...not comfortable for my mouth. Won't buy a second one regardless of the quality.
1847
4476 posts
Oct 03, 2017
9:36 AM
i used to use the silvers, switched to the silver plus because the reed plate sits inside the comb, making it seem a little bit smaller.

the harp is also longer and wider than a marine band. takes a while to get used too.

i changed out all my combs to blue moon, the blue moon combs are bigger.

once i start playing i do not notice. i really like the 1847 covers.you have to learn to play off the top coverplate, not too hard.
i consider it a mouth piece. once you realize what the ridge on top is for, its pretty cool.

IMG_0992

Last Edited by 1847 on Oct 03, 2017 9:38 AM
Dox
23 posts
Oct 04, 2017
4:00 AM
which is the '47 silver+? plus?
Dox
24 posts
Oct 04, 2017
6:01 AM
Which is the '47 plus? Plus?
groyster1
3027 posts
Oct 04, 2017
8:48 AM
never played seydel....Im sure they are very good but really satisfied with much less expensive harps....its true I do have customs from joe spiers,deak harp,andrew zajac,sugar cain and yes they were more expensive but rightfully so.....lots of labor put into them


Post a Message



(8192 Characters Left)


Modern Blues Harmonica supports

§The Jazz Foundation of America

and

§The Innocence Project

 

 

 

ADAM GUSSOW is an official endorser for HOHNER HARMONICAS