HohnerBlues Band Harmonica, Key of C, Chrome (1501BX)

I have purchased this model over the years for my grandchildren at the age of 2 to get them interested in music and this purchase very affordable and always good HOHNER excellent quality!

I preface this critique with the fact that I have been playing the harmonica in both private and public venues for over 43 years. Although I play all genre of music, my preferences are 19th century western tunes and old-time gospel hymns.At first, I had my reservations about ordering a $7.00 harmonica made in China; but I must admit I was quite impressed with my investment. It came in a cardboard box, in lieu of a case, but I didn't purchase it for the carrying case. In order to give the Hohner Bluesband, in the key of G, a fair assessment, I wanted to play it continually for several weeks and then have something to compare it with in appearance and sound. From the many that I own, I chose my Hohner Special 20 made in Germany. It retails for about 7 times as much as I paid for the Hohner Bluesband made in China."The first impression is a lasting impression," as the saying goes; and I was quite impressed with that first impression of the Bluesband harmonica right out of the starting gate, so to speak. The BluesBand looked and felt remarkably like my Hohner Special 20. They both have a black plastic comb, (yes, even pricier harmonicas come with plastic combs) and they both have stainless steel covers and brass reed plates. They both are identical in dimensions, weight and touch. With my eyes closed, I couldn't tell one instrument from the other. Afterwards, I thought to myself, "it looks and feels great-- but how does it sound?" "Is it all show and no go?" as the saying goes. Needless to say, it sounded wonderful. I was so impressed with the quality of its intonation I could hardly put it down. It sounded that good -- and all for the bargain basement price of under $7.00! I was able to use the same vibrato and muting techniques as I do on a harmonica costing seven times as much. I was so impressed with the appearance and sound I ordered the same make and model in the key of C.The only negative thing I have to say about the one I purchased, in the key of G, is that both reeds in the second hole do not work. I chalk this up to a manufacture's defect or a mistake at the assembly plant. If any of the reeds in holes four through seven had been defective, I would've had to return it. Holes four through seven are imperative in order to play melodies on the harmonica. One can still play a plethora of tunes without holes one, two and ten; but four, five, six and seven -- the diatonic scale -- are crucial. By the way, all the reeds in the Hohner Bluesband harmonica that I ordered in the key of C work with no problem. Ostensibly, quality control was on the job.Out of five stars, I give the one in the key of G four and a half stars for sound and price --but only because the reeds in the 2nd hole are defective. On the other hand, I give the one in the key of C five out of five stars for both intonation and price.In summation, if you're just now learning to play the harmonica, or you are already an accomplished harmonica player like me, looking for something to supplement your play on a whim -- the Hohner Bluesband is for you, offering both an incredible sound at a remarkable price.On the box it reads: "This is a musical instrument, not a toy." I wholeheartedly concur with that assessment. If you want a toy -- buy a kazoo. Here ends my review. I hope you enjoy playing the harmonica as much as I do. : )

good sounding harmonica Well made. notes bendable good little harmonica

this has worked really well as my beginning harp

Great harp

As a beginner blues harmonica, it is awesome

I purchased this for hiking and camping. I wanted a musical instrument that I could carry in my pocket. I am satisfied with my purchase.

Great seller, nicely packaged and highly recommended