Hohner DIATONIC 560/20 SPECIAL 20 10 HOLES E MI

The Hohner Progressive Series: a modern benchmark for demanding players

Alongside the "standard" Richter harmonicas, Hohner has developed models with a strong character, designed to meet specific techniques and aesthetics. The Special 20 is among the essentials of the diatonic family, and its philosophy perfectly matches the spirit of the Progressive range, often associated with a more contemporary approach to playing: power, precision, and immediate feel. Its traditional Hohner tuning retains the organic and expressive quality that has made the brand renowned among both stage and studio musicians.

For which musician and styles?

The Hohner Special 20 in E is suitable both for the serious beginner seeking a comfortable and motivating instrument, and for the intermediate/advanced player working on bends, riffs, and expressive playing. This key is widely used in blues, rock, and country, especially to easily fit into common "guitar" contexts. Its 10-hole format remains the ideal standard for learning the basics (attacks, articulations, blow/draw chords) and progressing towards more nuanced playing.

Sound and design

The Special 20 is known for a watertight playing feel and quick response: it easily produces a full sound with good presence without forcing. The plastic body contributes to stability and comfort while promoting consistent sound production across all registers. The brass reeds and stainless steel covers contribute to a clear projection, warm timbre, and a nice balance between blow and draw notes.

Diatonic or chromatic

A diatonic harmonica is designed around a main key (here E ) and allows natural chord playing by blowing and drawing, making it particularly expressive in blues and folk music. Thanks to interactions between blow and draw reeds, some notes can be bent to achieve typical colors and fill in "missing" notes. Conversely, a chromatic harmonica aims for direct access to all notes via a mechanism (often a slide). The model presented is indeed a 10-hole Richter-type diatonic.

Recommended compatible accessories

For maintenance and longevity, you can consider replacement reed plates (available for the Special 20) to replace the reed block when wear is noticeable, while keeping your familiar instrument.

Technical specifications

Tone	E	Color	Black
Number of holes	10.0000

Type	Diatonic	Plates	Brass
Number of reeds	20	Plate thickness	0.9 millimeters
Tuning	traditional Hohner	Replacement plates	available
Key	E	Covers	Stainless steel
Body	Plastic	Length	10 cm
Body color	Black	Blow - Holes 1 to 10	E4, Ab4, B4, E5, Ab5, B5, E6, Ab6, B6, E7
Mouthpiece coating	Plastic	Draw - Holes 1 to 10	F#4, B4, Eb5, F#5, A5, Db5, Eb6, F#6, A6, Db7