Hohner DIATONIC 1896/20 MARINE BAND 10 HOLES BB SIB
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Hohner
https://www.hohner.fr
hohnersas@hohner.fr
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HOHNER S.A.S.
Email: hohnersas@hohner.fr
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A Historical Reference at Hohner: The Marine Band Legend
Manufactured since 1896, the Hohner Marine Band 1896 is the harmonica that helped define the aesthetic of traditional blues. Its pearwood comb and "sandwich" assembly are part of the Marine Band series' DNA, which has become over the decades a true sonic benchmark. Little changed in its spirit since its inception, this model has established itself as a flagship of Hohner diatonics, adopted by countless musicians and heard on recordings that have shaped the history of popular music.For Which Musician and Styles?
This Marine Band 1896 in B flat (Bb) is suited both for the motivated beginner looking to start with a reliable choice and for the intermediate to advanced player seeking a harmonica with a strong personality. It excels in blues (Chicago, traditional, roots), but also performs very well in folk, country, rock, and variety styles whenever an organic sound and a "vintage" response are desired.Sound and Design
In diatonic harmonicas, the magic comes from the interaction between the reeds on blow and draw in each channel: this allows very natural production of chords, as well as accessing bends (bent notes) that give the iconic plaintive character of the blues. The Marine Band construction, with brass plates and curved stainless steel covers featuring side openings, promotes direct projection and a sharp attack. The lacquered pearwood mouthpiece coating contributes to the traditional playing feel while maintaining a sober and timeless aesthetic.Diatonic or Chromatic?
A diatonic harmonica is built around a given key, with a layout designed for easy switching between melody and chords. It is especially appreciated for expressive techniques (such as bends) and blues/folk/country styles. A chromatic harmonica, on the other hand, provides access to all notes via a dedicated system, for a more "all keys" approach. The Hohner Marine Band 1896 is indeed a diatonic, here in B flat (Bb).Recommended Compatible Accessories
To preserve the reeds and tuning over time, a case or transport box for 10-hole harmonicas is a relevant choice. A soft cloth can also help wipe the instrument after playing and reduce residual moisture.Technical specifications
| Tone | Bb |
| Number of holes | 10.0000 |
| Color | Brown |
| Type | Diatonic |
| Key | Bb / B flat |
| Tuning | Traditional HOHNER tuning |
| Body | Pearwood, brown |
| Mouthpiece coating | Lacquered pearwood |
| Length | 10 cm |
| Blow | Bb3, D4, F4, Bb4, D5, F5, Bb5, D6, F6, Bb6 |
| Draw | C4, F4, A4, C5, Eb5, G5, A5, C6, Eb6, G6 |
Questions frequently asked
Is the Hohner Marine Band 1896 Bb suitable for blues?
Its traditional Hohner Bb tuning and 10 holes favor blues playing, especially the bends achieved by drawing and blowing. The brass reeds provide a clear attack, while the stainless steel covers with side openings support projection.
What key is this Marine Band harmonica in?
The tuning is in Bb, noted as Bb or Sib. The blown notes range from Bb3 to Bb6 across the ten channels.
Can one learn on a diatonic Bb harmonica?
This model is suitable for a motivated beginner wanting to approach a 10-hole diatonic. The layout allows playing melodies and chords, with progressive access to bends.
Is the comb of the Marine Band 1896 made of wood?
The body is made of brown pearwood and the mouthpiece receives a lacquer finish. This sandwich construction is a historic element of the Marine Band series since 1896.
What is the size and how to transport this harmonica?
With a length of 10 cm, this instrument can be stored in a case or carrying box designed for 10-hole harmonicas. A soft cloth can be used to wipe moisture after playing.
