Harmonica players use amplifiers (amps) and microphones (mics) to raise the volume when playing along with other musicians and, often, when entertaining an audience.
The mic converts sound into electrical pulses that feed into an amp, recorder or transmitter. In a sense, it’s the link between a player and an audience and has huge potential in amplification of the tone.
Harmonica players need a mic that’s easy to cup with the hand and adjust while playing, sensitive enough to respond correctly to every hand command and wind pressure. Plus, of course, it should be able to howl like a giant!
Like the microphone, an amplifier plays a key role on the harmonica scene. In partnership with a mic, electric instruments plugged in directly, and perhaps recorded backing tracks, it’s used to increase the volume and balance sound levels through a speaker system.
Tips to Prevent Unwanted Feedback:
Feedback – we’ve all heard it. It’s the ear-screeching noise produced when the output signal from the speaker is picked up by the input device (mic). The mic, the room, amp settings and component set-up all can cause feedback. Your first action is to turn down the amp immediately. Feedback can destroy expensive equipment. The only way to avoid it is to reduce volume. Other actions you can take include:
* Point the amp away from you.
* Don’t get the mic near the amp when adjusting volume.
* Preferably have a volume control for the mic.
* Feedback often comes from the treble setting; turn it low, with the bass up.
* Seal the harp and the mic with your hand to make sure the only sound that the mic picks up is from your harp, with your hand blocking the amplified sound from the speaker.
When making your equipment buying decisions, it’s best to first buy the mic so you can then experiment on various amps to identify which would work best with it.
Having said all of that, here’s an important point: The quality of a player’s music does not depend on the mics and amps. In other words, they won’t make you good at playing harmonica. That comes from within. Their purpose is to make your sound loud enough for your audience. The louder the volume, the more likely that poor playing will be heard loud and clear.
So, remember: no mics or amps, pricey or cheap, can make a great harmonica sound by themselves. Only the player can do that.
