Hohner Marine Band - Thunderbird, E-Low harmonica

General

If you are looking for a good harmonica to play the lowest notes well, you are now on the right page. The Marine Band Thunderbird was the first diatonic harmonica that made it possible to play entire layers of notes without suffering from rattling reeds or a slow response. Hohner's patented design is still one of the most ingenious ever.

Design adaptations

The Marine Band Thunderbird is very similar to the Marine Band Classic. The difference lies mainly in the fact that the Thunderbird is tuned low. This can, with 'normal' harmonicas, lead to unpleasant side noises (or no sound at all). Hohner was the first to come up with the idea of adapting the design. However, this idea did not bubble up overnight, Hohner took over 110 years to make this instrument perfect for bass. For example, the Thunderbird has specially shaped covers that prevent the reeds from rattling the moment the harmonica is blown.

Extremely fast response

The Hohner Marine Band Thunderbird has special tongue profiles that ensure the harmonica maintains a very fast response with good volume. Hohner has done its job well and created a beautiful instrument for the bass. This copy of the Marine Band Thunderbird is tuned in low E.