Hohner Special 20 D/D - 10 Hole

Special 20 and the Progressive Series: a Modern Classic from Hohner

Alongside the most traditional "Richter" diatonic harmonicas, Hohner develops instrument families designed for specific playing approaches. The Special 20 is one of the brand's essential references: a design focused on comfort and efficiency, which has become very popular for its full sound and durability. It also fits the spirit of the Progressive series, associated with modern harmonica players (blues, rock, jazz, advanced techniques) seeking a responsive, stable, and expressive instrument.

For Which Musician and Styles?

The Hohner Special 20 in key of D suits both the serious beginner and the intermediate or advanced player who wants a reliable diatonic for everyday use. In practice, it is an excellent choice for blues (expressive bends), country (clear attack, notes that "snap"), rock, and pop. Its response facilitates learning articulation (attacks, tongue techniques, effects) and quickly encourages dynamic playing, both rhythmically and in lead.

Sound and Design

The Special 20 is appreciated for its round tone and powerful projection, with a "sealed" instrument feel that helps achieve volume without strain. The 0.9 mm brass reeds contribute to a stable response, while the screwed stainless steel covers enhance robustness and longevity. The black plastic comb provides comfortable contact at the mouthpiece and good consistency, useful for maintaining even sound across all 10 holes.

Diatonic or Chromatic

A diatonic harmonica is built around a key (here D ) and provides the notes of the basic scale, allowing easy chord formation by blowing and drawing. It also offers access to additional notes via bends, essential for blues phrasing. In contrast, a chromatic harmonica covers all notes without bending through a dedicated mechanical system. The Hohner Special 20 is indeed a diatonic, perfect if you are looking for the typical expressiveness and chord playing of a Richter model.

Technical specifications

Tone	D	Color	Black
Number of holes	10.0000

Type	Diatonic	Length	10 cm
Number of reeds	20	Hole 1	Blow D4 / Draw E4
Tuning	Traditional Hohner tuning	Hole 2	Blow F#4 / Draw A4
Key	D	Hole 3	Blow A4 / Draw Db5
Comb	Plastic	Hole 4	Blow D5 / Draw E5
Mouthpiece coating	Plastic	Hole 5	Blow F#5 / Draw G5
Reeds	Brass	Hole 6	Blow A5 / Draw B5
Reed thickness	0.9 mm	Hole 7	Blow D6 / Draw Db6
Replacement reeds	Available	Hole 8	Blow F#6 / Draw E6
Covers	Stainless steel	Hole 9	Blow A6 / Draw G6
Attachment	Screwed	Hole 10	Blow D7 / Draw B6