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Author Topic: Low Octave reed problem  (Read 2412 times)

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Roland Carson

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Low Octave reed problem
« on: March 08, 2008, 02:53:17 PM »

I wonder if anyone can shed some light on a recent problem I have had with one of the low octave reeds on the treble end of my Hascy?
A few days ago one of the low octave reeds didn't sound when I engaged it.  I took the treble end off and removed the reed box and when I blew gently into the offending hole nothing happened. I lifted the leather and plastic flap and it all seemed to be the same as the others.
After fiddling about for a short while it started to work again so I put it back together and it all seems fine now.
However, I didn't discover the cause of the problem and would appreciate any suggestions as to what it may have been.
Thanks
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Theo

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Re: Low Octave reed problem
« Reply #1 on: March 08, 2008, 04:27:41 PM »

Probably some sort of airborne foreign body had lodged between the reed and its slot.  Your fiddling about has cleared it.  It's a common problem, though more common on higher pitched reeds just because their small size makes them easier to obstruct. 
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Theo Gibb - Gateshead UK

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Roland Carson

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Re: Low Octave reed problem
« Reply #2 on: March 08, 2008, 09:28:55 PM »

Thanks Theo.
I hope that is the case. It would be disturbing if it happened at a gig. 
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rosenun

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Re: Low Octave reed problem
« Reply #3 on: March 09, 2008, 03:29:55 AM »

By the way, not a good idea to blow onto a reed as it will form a film of condensation on the reed possibly causing corrosion.
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Theo

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Re: Low Octave reed problem
« Reply #4 on: March 09, 2008, 10:24:52 AM »

By the way, not a good idea to blow onto a reed as it will form a film of condensation on the reed possibly causing corrosion.

In theory I agree, but in practice it would only happen if the instruments was very cold and you were working in a very cold environment so that condensation could form and remain on the reed for a significant period of time.  In practice it should not be a problem if you are working at a comfortable room temperature.

On the other hand a more effective way of clearing a stuck reed is to use a fine screwdriver, or something similar, to gently move the reed up and down in its slot.  Then check if it is working by blowing the reedblock like a harmonica.
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Theo Gibb - Gateshead UK

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