Is the Lee Oskar Harmonica right for you? (No BS Review)

► Get the full review here: www.harmonica.com/store/lee-o...
Want to know which harmonica to buy? www.harmonica.com/which-harmo...
Need a fast track for learning harmonica? www.harmonica.com/lessons/
Intro 0:16
Bendability 0:47
Comfort 1:20
Responsiveness 2:23
Tone 2:54
Looks 5:26
The Boxes Connect 6:48
Durability / Fixability 7:30
Final Verdict 8:18
Blooper Reel 8:55
Verdict - Lee Oskar harmonicas are my harmonicas of choice. They are the #1 harmonica that I have played over the decades at countless gigs, recording dates, and jam sessions, and I’ve never had a problem with them. They’re very responsive, very easy to bend, sound great, are comfy to play, they have easily readable key labels giving you the key for 1st and 2nd position to remove any guesswork, and they are durable. They are especially good for single note playing, and also come in a variety of interesting tunings that can be fun to explore.
If you’re wondering which brand is better between Lee Oskar and Hohner, my answer is yes. LOL. But seriously, it’s a personal choice, and for me Lee Oksar and Hohner are my favorite 2 harmonica companies (followed by Suzuki and Seydel.) I like Lee Oskar #1, and Hohner #2 (with my favorite Hohner models being the Special 20, Golden Melody, Crossover, and Rocket.)
Within the tone section of this video I do an A/B of Lee Oksar vs. Special 20 in chordal style and in single note style.
Any questions or comments about the harmonica just let me know in the comment section below!

[@timothycliffe3061]

Very informative and well done. Enjoyed the blooper at the end!

[@Harmonicacom]

Ha! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@heidinorton89]

Thanks! Trying to gift one for a Christmas Present and this was super helpful!

[@Pammywong]

Great, thorough review, Luke!

[@Harmonicacom]

You are so funny, watching these videos Pam!

[@mrjay4000]

Nice review! As a newbie who has been wanting to learn this and has procrastinated for too long, I finally just ordered the L.O in C major today. I am very excited to start.

[@Harmonicacom]

Woo hoo! YESSAH!! I hope you love it.

[@tremendous6732]

Have you kept up with it?

[@mikesmatenreyd9789]

Thx for the review man, it's really helping me. i'm a newbie n i decide to order the C major Lee Oskar today. Nice review. Greet from Indonesia☺

[@Harmonicacom]

Ooooh, great choice Mike! Congrats. Hope you love it. Glad I could help! Aloha from Hawaii.

[@qualudia1]

I concur with your statement about having the other harmonicas having the 2nd position on the 10 note side. As always a great review, fair, succinct, honest. A “going to heaven” review.

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on Tomaso. Thanks man. You gotta come hang with the fam at forum.harmonica.com if you're so inclined. Rock on, Luke

[@belindabarrett2384]

thank so much for all the information on the Oskar Harmonica

[@Harmonicacom]

You're welcome Belinda!

[@gregoryporch8395]

Lee Oskar is what I'd call the Working Man's harmonica. I have a G, low F# and a low F because they are definitely the most affordable low tone harmonicas. I greatly prefer the tone of wood combs but I also have to test them for spit lodging prior to playing

[@edlinton4113]

bought a Lee Oskar today. Had an old (80's) special 20 that I had never played much. Just beginning and not liking it much. I am hoping the Lee Oskar is good for me. Thanks Luke. I've been following your videos since I started learning a couple weeks ago. I always wanted to learn. I am getting old and battle some health issues. Gonna learn so I can play in heaven.

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on Ed! Look forward to jamming with you up there if not sooner. I'm so glad you're digging the Lee Oskar. You may have already seen this lessons, but this is the most important fundamental at the beginning: www.harmonica.com/how-to-play-the-harmonica/ Rock on, Luke

[@funkencool]

I just picked up a Special 20 in the key of A that I found locally today and I love it. I thought Lee Oskar would be next though because I respect the dude and hear such good things about the harmonica. I'm so glad you mentioned the mustache catching specifically haha, because I've noticed that can be in issue.. I'm still going to think about it but that's definitely something worth knowing. Thanks so much for a great review!

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on Caleb! Congrats on picking up the Special 20. Great harp!

[@Rood67]

Lee Oskar is the first harmonica brand I got hooked on. I have a few others, Special 20, Suzuki, etc - but LO’s are my favorite.

[@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244]

I'm really enjoying your videos. I'm 70 and have been playing harmonicas since I was ten years old when my father bought a Hohner Marine Band in C and played Sugar Blues on it as he leaned it while in the Navy during WW2 and then handed it to me. Harmonica playing is very good for your health as it helped prevent and treat Sleep Apnea by keeping the soft palate and surrounding structures toned. You are helping me by infusing me with new enthusiasm. But I have never played in a band. I just play for pleasure. I learned mostly by playing along with records and still do that now. So I am nowhere near an expert even though I can perform all the note tricks, etc. One thing I would really like to see a video on is harmonica maintenance and how to tune reeds.

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey thanks so much for sharing. That's really cool I never knew it could help sleep apnea. Keep on jamming my friend! Aloha, Luke

[@brushe8025]

I play marine bands and lee Oskar's whichever suits the song is the one I go for.

[@NoirFan01]

Thanks for this review, Luke. I have been using special 20s the past two years and was thinking to buy a Lee Oskar in key of D to try a different brand. Your comments on the pros and cons helped me to decide on buying one.

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on. Keep us posted about your thoughts...

[@tnysteph]

The two things I really like about the Lee Oskar and you talked about both. 1 is the key label both first and second position are labeled on the harmonica. 2 is the cases, the fact that they interlock together I think is very cool. I also like these harmonicas, but I do use other brands. This was a very good review Luke.

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Tony! good to hear from you bro. Rock on. 🤙🏼

[@JBIComms]

Hi Luke, thanks for the review, just got my 1st Lee Oskar Major C and its amazing. Its replacing my Suzuki FolkMaster. I can say the Lee Oskar is amazing so far and also confirm i'm the problem for hole 8 9 and 10 not the Suzuki haha

[@uripmargono946]

Makes me want to buy one. Thank you.

[@Harmonicacom]

DO IT!

[@lennyharp]

I have tried most harmonicas in my 45 years of playing. I use H Special 20 and the Turbo Harp covers. I spend a little more but enjoy added comfort and projection.

[@romancymerkiewicz7182]

It is funy coincedence . Few days ago I bought my first Lee Oscar harmonica (A) and have huge fun playing it and swapping between my Hohner Blues Harp . My next buy is going to be Special 20 , but so far really enjoy your classes on UTube and sending You a Big Fat thanks for your classes, tips and videos - it push me forward fast and joufull. Roman from Ireland

[@Harmonicacom]

Awesome Roman! Keep on rocking.

[@mikemyles4916]

When I discovered Lee Oskar harps everything became so much easier - especially bends. And key labels - yes, yes, YES! Still my go-to brand.

[@johndilloway9762]

If you read my previous comment, I thought it was maybe a coincidence but it sounds as though you had a similar experience to me, not much experience myself but they are what I will continue to buy.

[@rustycasteele6121]

I have been playing a Fender Blues Deluxe, my wife bought me a LO and there is a lot difference. While the Fender is good, and a lot cheaper, the LO is easier to play and bend. I was so glad for the comfort factor right out of the Xbox with the LO, my Fender I actually sanded the corners because it was uncomfortable, not it's better. Thanks for your advise and lessons.

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on Rusty. Yeah, the LO is a big step up for sure!

[@mattaparicio571]

My goto harp for playing hymn melodies and I have a lot of fun with is my Lee Oskar harp in G love it!

[@mikelisacarb]

@mikelisacarb 1 minute ago (edited) Lee Oskar was amazing in the way he used his instrument as an inside voice of the "War" R&B fusion horn section. Nobody else has ever really done that, and it absolutely makes so much musical sense. Once you mic the "harp", the sound can be colored in many ways, but the distinctive harmonica breathiness is always there in the background. Every once in a while, it peeks up out of the inner texture, but he seldom has it in your face as a constant solo instrument, the way that most blues harp players do. Through most of their songs, you'd swear it was a saxophone. Sometimes you really hear it more as a harmonica, but it always serves the needs of the song! A real musician's musician, as all of these hit-making guys tended to be! It's all about the groove!

[@MMSikorsky]

Отличный обзор, Люк! Спасибо! Никогда раньше не обращал внимания на гармоники Lee Oskar. Всю жизнь играл на Marine Band и Suzuki, но теперь появилось огромное желание купить что-нибудь рекомендованное тобой в том числе и в настройке гармонического минора.

[@Harmonicacom]

Yeah the alternate tunings are a lot of fun!

[@DavidNance-gn2ly]

I think I'm going to get me a lee Oskar harp, because your right, they are a really nice harmonica.

[@Sammy10100]

I just ordered this harmonica. I'm a beginner player.

[@Harmonicacom]

Hope you love it Scott!

[@thehighway2023]

Perfect choice, you'll never need anything else. Keep playing! 🙂

[@TremoloHarmonica]

Oskars are my favorite also. I have over 20 in various keys and tunings. I started on Sp20s and Golden Melody and Big River but switched over about 18 years ago. Never threw away an Oskar, but I have replaced reed plates in 2 of my harps after years of playing. My KZbin channel is mostly about tremolo harps but when I get the chance to play with other musicians I almost always play a 10 hole diatonic Lee Oskar. More versatile than the tremolo and they bend. Let the guitar or piano handle the chords. Melody Maker is my favorite tuning.

[@Harmonicacom]

Cool! Nice to meet a Lee Oskar brother. Your playing sounds great!

[@JB-rw9xt]

So far Lee Oskar’s are for me. I tried Hohner 20 Specials and Fender Blues DeVille. Lee Oskar’s just fit my style and tone of blues harmonica. And yes, they are more easy to bend notes on.

[@Harmonicacom]

Me too! 😎

[@austinknowlton1783]

I chose Lee Oskar as well, for a lot of the same reasons. They are actually more bang for your buck vs Hohners in the same price range but keeping that little secret from the harmonica community at large is fine by me.

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Austin - well yes I agree with you insomuch as they're about the same price, but in my experience, the Lee Oskars last longer.

[@austinknowlton1783]

Hence why I said "more bang for your buck."

[@skeeterman7144]

Just picked up a low E. Very impressive! ❤

[@Harmonicacom]

I'm not sure how they let me?

[@thehighway2023]

The reed plates are also easy to get to so if you have a reed that's binding up, you can go thru and "plink" the reeds and a lot of times that will cure it. If not, new reed plates are about $10 cheaper than a new harp, and fairly simple to install.

[@billmiller7613]

Really enjoyed both this review and the special 20. Wow! I STILL don’t know which one I want to buy😁.

[@Harmonicacom]

LOL. They're both great harps!

[@billmiller7613]

@@Harmonicacom just bought a special 20 that has been upgraded by Albertharps. It’s an impressive upgrade for sure!

[@petrstowasser7613]

I just bought a low D - I've had it for about an hour. It's my first Lee Oscar. That's the best! It is tuned low so bending should be difficult. But it's not, it goes on its own. Blowing is also completely clean. Beautiful! Dear Hohner, we need to have a serious talk ;-)

[@Harmonicacom]

🤣 Nice. Congrats! Lee Oskars are DEFINITELY the best value low tuned. Most companies charge more for low tuned!!!

[@LuvBlues64]

These are both great harps,i also like the Suzuki Harpmasters in this price range,which are excellent responsive harps,which also have replacement reedplates.Also Kongsheng Bluebird.

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks for sharing!

[@tnysteph]

I am a fan of the Kongsheng Mars harmonicas with their round holes. The Bluebird is nice and I also like the Suzuki Bluesmaster harmonicas.

[@DRK4x4]

Just got my Lee Oskar MD Key of C in the mail today I ordered from you guys after reading your reviews on the website. I think I'm gonna spend the money and get your beginners course. It looks like something I'll be able to follow. Looking forward to learning something new this year. Thanks

[@Harmonicacom]

WOO HOOO!!! Good for you for investing in yourself. I think you're gonna be really happy. See you inside the course. :-)

[@thebarleymow]

I agree with all you had to say. I’ve been using Lee Oskar harps for years. Surprised you didn’t mention the replacement Reed plates. They make the harps so much great value.

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on! I did mention it in passing during the section on durability / fixability. thanks for the note! Aloha, Luke

[@inderneilboseroychowdhury]

In Diatonic I am using Hohner Marine Brand, Crossover, Thunderbird, Blues Harp, Rocket & Meisterklasse.. I also have one Seydel Blues, Suzuki Overdrive , Bluesmaster & Manji.. But I have never played Lee oskar as yet.. I will then purchase one to taste the taste of it.. I also play various Chromatic like Hohner Meisterklasse 7565 14 hole , 280 c 16 hole, Suzuki Chromatix 16 hole & also 24 Songstar.. Then I also have Tombo Chromatic 12 hole & Cascha 10 hole Chromatic.. Since 1977 I am tinkering around with Harmonicas... But anyway this is not about what is suitable for my playability but Lee Oskar to trial.. I like the sound better than Hohner special..

[@Harmonicacom]

Intersting. Keep me posted how you like the Lee Oskar! Aloha, Luke

[@tabriff3832]

Interesting, because I’ve now got both. Special 20 first, Lee Oscar second. Even as the beginner I am, I did feel their was a difference in the sound, and yes it is exactly as you say, single note / chords. So why as a beginner did I buy another harmonica, when the Special 20 is pretty good. Well it is something I thought you’d mention, but didn’t. The comb sticks out a lot further on the Special 20 than the Lee Oscar, and I just found it so uncomfortable. In comparison to the L O, the S 20 is crude and square edged. On comfort, the Lee Oscar wins hands down. I’ll still play the S 20 for the sound, but I’ll never like it. For a beginner, I would recommend the L O. The S 20 is getting a bit long in the tooth, time for Hohner to do a make-over. I may round the edges of the comb. Thanks. A useful review for me. PS just pulled out the S 20. The issue with the comb doesn’t look that significant, but as soon as you play it, you’re aware of the difference. I shall investigate. Hardly aware of the comb on the L O.

[@Harmonicacom]

Yeah I'm with you 100%! That's why I gave the SP 20 a 4/5 stars on comfort (sharp corners) vs. the LO a 5/5 stars (rounded corners.) The Hohner Crossover, Rocket, and Golden Melody are all super comfy harps. But for me right now I'm sticking with my Lee Oskars. Love 'em. Thanks for the note - right on target!

[@49684]

You can’t go wrong with a Lee Oskar, I’ve played many from cheap to expensive in my inexperienced 25 years of playing and over all I like the Lee Oskars the most. The only thing I don’t like is the taste of them, you can really taste the stainless steel. They patina well too. As matter fact, they are the only ones I’ve ever had that patina. If he made the same models with premium materials I would by them, but I understand why and what he did as a business decision, but great product with those harps. I apply the same principles in my business as well. Your a smart man Lee Oskar. I like the big holes too. I like the update of this channel, personality, and website as well. I like the other guy too, but it needed a new face lift and kept up on. Keep up the good work. You have many people looking up to you. 😊💪👊

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey JW - thanks for the encouraging words! Yeah, JP is the man! I'm glad you're digging the new look and feel of the website and everything. Keep in touch. Aloha, Luke

[@rickbouthillier4394]

I am surprised you like them I think they are pure garbage!

[@paulotoole744]

Cheers Luke. As a total novice I just purchased Special 20 -C ,so far it's fine. My birthday is coming soon, so I will treat myself to a Lee Oscar., why not? You take care ok

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Paul - it IS your birthday after all, so why not? You deserve it! Cheers! ;-)

[@oskarknutsson479]

Also it is Lee Oskar with a K 😁😁😁

[@dolphinsdaydreams]

Great harmonica for trying out different modified tunings for cheap by exchanging plates. See the article "mixin' and matchin' reedplates" by Pat Missin. When you cut and polish sides of comb and plates, they also nicely fit into Turbolids by James Antaki. (Except from the good feel and looks, makes it very quick and easy to work on the reeds).

[@Harmonicacom]

Wow, this is fascinating...

[@peterharman4141]

Love my Lee Oskars, I have a load of them...sound good and last so long😄

[@Harmonicacom]

Roger that, Peter! 😎

[@sync1216]

Got my 1st Lee Oskar, 2nd Pos. Gm(N) yesterday. It's also my first natural minor. As my fender blues deluxe set arrived with it, I tried to compare them...(DON'T!) It's 2 different worlds, the fenders are probably more in the direction of special20's style. Single notes can be played, but sound less harmonic...( still, considering the price, great value for your money) The Lee Oskar on the other hand is everything you said Luke, feels great! 1:50 , what you said about comfort in holding it.. agreed. Especially next to the fenders, which are a bit sharp on the edges. And also the beard trap is real... but have seen worse, the big six from seydel got me real good one time 😅 One detail that caught my eye is how they are put together. On all the other harmonicas I own, there are always two identical screws holding it together. One up, one down, on each end. Only on Suzuki's Bluesmaster and Olive did they chose different screws for each side. My golden melody, Manji's and Big Six all have identical screws, which takes away confidence that I could take them apart and put them back together as they were. And then there is the Lee Oskar(made by Tombo, Japan). A screw and a nut! Yay, I'm impressed! 👍 😁 And there is more to it, how the reedplates are held in place before srewed together. And the resulting 2 holes on each end, allowing the use of a strap(like the big six). Designed by a Player, as you said!

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on!

[@ecalzo]

Hey Luke.. I just grabbed one as a bargain.. used in nice condition for 18€... I hope nothing bad has happened to the inside.. we will see.. it's on his own way to my home..

[@Harmonicacom]

Woo hoo! Hope you love it.

[@lindajones49]

It is also my favorite instrument for absolute sure. Oh thanks I learned something new didn’t know the cases would slide together. So cool 😎 I have more than one ☝️ key 🔑.

[@Harmonicacom]

Sweeeeet. very cool. Glad you liked it!

[@lindajones49]

@@Harmonicacom I shared it across social media platforms and sent it to a friend who is just getting started.

[@sk22ng]

I urge every harmonica player to at least try this one out. I use these for my minor set of keys. I would place it in the category of Hohner Rocket and Special 20 harps. I have a fairly bushy moustache and don't have much of a problem regarding fascial hair. Yes, I prefer the plastic combs because they are smooth on the lips and easier to play than other combs. My A minor is the oldest of these at around four years old. I have played the crap out of it, and it just won't die. I bought a replacement set of plates two years ago and never opened the package. And yes, I like how the cases connect firmly together and carry this little "brick" separate from my harmonica case. I am in a rut playing my Hohner Rocket Amp harps because to me they take the least amount of effort to play and have a lot of volume. On the negative side they are expensive, and I only get a year or two out of them and have to keep new spares on hand for when a reed will break.

[@Harmonicacom]

My man. Here's a fist bump from one Lee Oskar lover to another. 👊🏼😉

[@flddoc2]

I’m a beginner and I don’t know jack. I’ve bought Hohner special 20’s and Blues as well as a few of the Lee Oskar’s. I’m one of those unruly beard guys and I did notice the hair ripper thing. Yeah it stings but, it doesn’t knock me off my game so....I’m not shaving. One issue I seem to have with almost every harp I buy is at least one of the reeds on every one goes bad within a month or two. I warm the instrument up slowly than start practicing. I’m sure I must’ve developed a bad technique and either blow or draw too hard or something. Signing up for lessons is probably smarter than blowing up a harp, buying another, repeat, spend money.... Side note. Drums/singing are my main instruments. I bought a holder, learned Piano Man, played it while drumming and it was always a great hit. BUT, even as a beginner I noted a difference in the chord sounds between the two harps. I’m finding it difficult to find the warmer tones without, what I call, cradling the harp. (I know “shocker”) Probably why there aren’t many drummer/harp solos. I’m a technical drummer who doesn’t sacrifice creative playing to sing OR play harp. I’m working really hard to play some harp solos in a few songs I sing. Got my Mojo Working is my first effort. Singing, drumming and playing this solo is turning out to be one of the most challenging efforts of my life. Is it possible to get better tone on my single note solo playing when I have to put the harp in a holder? Also, which of your courses do you suggest I take? I can play notes but it’s all just natural ability. I barely know up from down on the harp. I know the low note is on the left haha. I’m a caveman drum beater. I know time signatures, I can sight read drum music, but scale notation and theory totally escapes me. I didn’t even know why the second note on the Lee Oskar’s is there. I knew when we played a song in A, the A harp didn’t work haha. So it was trial and error...pick up a harp, blow, NOPE! Grab another, blow, NOPE, until I found the right one. I’m so focused on drum practice and teaching I’ve never taken the time to learn what harp goes with what key song. I (am I’m not proud of it) I just labeled my harps by the song I used it for haha. Like I said, knuckle dragging caveman. Dragging my knuckles is becoming very ouch on my fingers though. I’m a professional drummer, I need to become a professional harp/drummer/singer. Time to learn. Where to start? Wow! That was some “side note”. Sorry for the length. Thanks for the great review.

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Iggy - cool man! That's quite a feat to play Piano Man on drums and harmonica at the same time! I feel you, I've played bass and harmonica at the same time which also like patting your head and rubbing your belly at the same time, lol. But, no you can't get around the inferior tone of playing through the holder, vs using your hands. On piano man, it's not a big deal, but on a song like Mojo Working, perhaps consider doing a "breakdown" kinda vibe during the harmonica and just do a boom chick with your feet on kick and hat, and then hold the harmonica. That could be really cool!! If you're really wanting to invest in your harmonica playing, it sounds like my course Beginner to Boss might be just the perfect fit for you! www.harmonica.com/lessons/ Also, on that page, under Lessons>Beginner I think you might really like my free lessons on Keys, Chords, and Blues. Rock on, Iggy!

[@georgevalente4223]

The plastic comb sold me on the LO harmonica.

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on George! I like the plastic combs myself! Rock on, Luke

[@smokeyallanritter3211]

Very Helpful! I am still playing the Lee Oscars I bought 25 years ago! Might get replacements as a couple of the notes seem to have gone a bit flat. I clean them by soaking in a glass of water with hydrogen peroxide to get out the gunk and make them very clean. I used them on my album 20 years ago and I'm still playing them! How's that for durability?? I only play straight harp in keys of C & D and once in awhile cross harp G and A. I also use a chromatic Suzuki because it has more notes for songs like Moon River. You can hear the Lee Oscars on my YT videos. Thanks!

[@Harmonicacom]

wow! Thanks for sharing Allan!

[@robertbairt9094]

I like the large Brail (Stevie W😎) deep imbedded #1 - 10 because I can see them beyond reflection of Stainless HD covers that doesn't rust up and discolor along top #1-10 from spit such as Sp20's. So bonus point 4 Lee Oscar build quality over cheap H covers and added ugly Lee O easy locator alignment service tabs grow on U. I see Lee O holes are larger than Sp20, FBD, I don't have a Rocket yet to compare to Lee O size but may be responsible 4 Sp20 tone & response. So 5-1=4+1bonus4Qualiy Value⚒️ durability=5/5 💸 Spot on Review 👍

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on Robert. The Rocket holes are bigger than the LO's.

[@dusanbjelotomic169]

Hi man. You are amazing. I have lee oskar in C key. I am beginner. Harmonica is a very hard instrument. I practice every day, but bending on 2 and 3 hole is inposible for me. Thanks for learning 😘

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on! You can do it! Have you seen my lesson on bending? www.harmonica.com/how-to-bend-harmonica/

[@dusanbjelotomic169]

@@Harmonicacom Hi Luke ! I try to bending. I don't know did I succeed...

[@MP-tf7cc]

Another good video Luke. Are there different LO models, or just one; and how do the hole sizes and spacing compare to the Golden melody or Marine band deluxe?

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on. Just one model (although they come in different tunings - Melody Maker, Natural Minor, Harmonica Minor.) I find the holes to be the same size as Golden Melody and Marine Band. The Rocket has slightly larger holes.

[@rebeccaabraham8652]

My 2nd harmonica - after my Bluesmaster - was a Lee Oskar… and after a week, I took it apart and adjusted the reed gaps. Now - it barely takes any breath to make it sing, which is just fine by me - I have an aversion to hammering musical instruments. Other brands - the cheaper ones - I’ve found don’t take too easily to be being adjusted.

[@Harmonicacom]

NIce! Thanks for sharing, Rebecca.

[@yamahapeanut44]

Which do you like better? The lee or the suzuki?

[@rebeccaabraham8652]

@@yamahapeanut44 I like them both - they’re both excellent instruments… although I do have more Suzuki’s (and Kongshengs, which I see as directly equivalent; KS is a Suzuki OEM) than Lee Oskars. While I’m learning to bend the notes… I would say that the brass reeds of the LO’s are slightly easier to get to grips with…. but I do love the bright tones of the Suzuki PB reeds! That said - nothing wrong with the sound of brass reeds - it’s right for some pieces and techniques - you have to try them and make the call depending on what you want to play. Finally - the place where I put my money down is my Suzuki Chromatix; that is one very serious instrument!

[@yamahapeanut44]

@@rebeccaabraham8652 thanks for the info

[@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244]

I have a mustache a bit longer than yours and I own eight Lee Oskar harps. No problem with ripping hairs, etc., although sometimes I think that the stach hairs interfere with sealing at times.

[@Harmonicacom]

thanks for sharing!!

[@keithwilkinson5707]

Great review. Loved the 'alphabet mouth' at the end too. One of the things that you did not mention was hole size. I was told the Lee Oskars have slightly larger holes. Would this be an advantage or disadvantage to a health compromised 73 year old wanting to learn?

[@Harmonicacom]

Yeah good point. Some people find it's easier to learn how to isolate notes on the Lee Oskar. Advantage. Rock on Keith! 😎

[@bgdn5]

I've bought Lee Oskar, very easy to play this I like, but in summary the sound of Special 20 mush more attractive more beaffy may say

[@Harmonicacom]

Yeah me too Brian!

[@davidcastellanos881]

Hi bro, here in Mexico it's kinda difficult to find them but I found the one I want and it's an A major. It's says "A major 1st" Is it the one you need to play Road house blues and whammer jammer, etc? That "1st" write on it made me think a lot.

[@Harmonicacom]

Yes, David you are correct. The A harmonica is the one you want to play Blues in E like Roadhouse Blues and the like. Rock on, Luke

[@JimD-mb9bh]

Great Harmonica

[@Harmonicacom]

INDEED.

[@patrikduller8449]

Great harmonicas but not the best for the overblows. These days I play mostly Crossovers. Thanks anyway, Bro'! Stay safe! :)

[@Harmonicacom]

Fair enough! I haven't really gotten into overblows too much yet, but the crossovers are amazing harps if you can afford 'em! ;-) (I've got a crossover review coming out soon BTW)

[@patrikduller8449]

@@Harmonicacom They are more expensive, I'll admit that. However It's surely worth the extra-money. Great I'll be here! :)

[@cadiscase]

I have more trouble with bends on the Lee Oscar then the Marine Band. Did you do something to the Lee Oscar to make it easier to bend ?

[@Harmonicacom]

No I didn't. That's interesting to hear. I've always found LO's easier than MB's....

[@balazsmagyar4211]

Nice review and a great channel!! Which of the two is louder, the LO or SP20?

[@Harmonicacom]

I think they're about the same, but If you're playing hard, I've found the the LO's last longer.

[@craiginker6732]

Great reviews Luke. For a Low F F what Harmonica would you recommend to get that real sexy, low tone... Thanks again

[@Harmonicacom]

Lee Oskar makes a Low F. So do Hohner and Suzuki.

[@TNungesser]

Is the LO bendable only for you on every note? Would a beginner be able to bend all the notes you bend out of the box? Does one have to open up the LO and adjust the reeds to get them all to bend? Don't mean to be a Debbie Downer (of Saturday Night fame) but I keep seeing reviews of this and that harmonica on KZbin and I will purchase them but they never bend like the ones being demoed. What am I missing? If I purchase a Lee Oscar, will all the notes bend for me like they do for you right out of the box?

[@Harmonicacom]

Bending is a challenging technique to learn, and some harmonicas are easier to learn on than others. In my opinion, Lee Oskar and Hohner Special 20 are a couple of the easiest. But it's still hard to learn to bend on a harmonica that bends easily! Here is my article on bending: www.harmonica.com/how-to-bend-harmonica/

[@bernardlesperance742]

Have you played the Lee Oskar Mick Jagger Harmonica that Mick Jagger sells on his website? I've never played any musical instruments but recently purchased a Jagger harmonica online and plan on starting to learn how to play it this summer. Just wonder what pros think of it.

[@Harmonicacom]

kzbin.info7F9nspn9U8Q?si=jD8__NHmjzZzUY4h

[@martrog3429]

I would argue about responsivness, its not as responsive as special 20 on the lower octave, 123 draw demands more diaphragm muscle pull. I only bought it because of the natural minor tuning, but I wouldnt switch to them on major because of that factor.

[@Harmonicacom]

Hmm, that interesting. Hohner used to make SP 20's in natural minor tunings, but I believe now it's their Rocket line which offers natural minor. If you're ever in the market for another natural minor, you might wanna check one of those out. They're great harps too! Aloha, Luke

[@johndilloway9762]

I started learning 3 months ago, cheap harp, just could not get it, bought a lee oskar and bang everything just fell into place, dont know whether it was the harp or it was just time for me to get it right, I like to think it was a coincidence of both as the first harp is still difficult to get right and the lee oskar just feels right to me. anyway it worked so I would recomend them to anyone, dont buy cheap rubbish to start with.

[@Harmonicacom]

Great advice John. Glad you got a great harp and you're on your way! Rock on! 😎

[@mazproteg]

If i have a c tone what’s the next tone A or D and a major (orange) thanks

[@Harmonicacom]

I'd go with A so you can play blues in E, but you'll want both eventually.

[@ritammukherjee1615]

Hey would you do a review on Hohner Blues Harp MS ??

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Ritam - The Blues Harp MS is fine (but not as good as a Marine Band.) If one can afford the Marine Band, I think it's worth the extra money.

[@sugengnarimo385]

Its good harmonicas, i like it ....

[@Harmonicacom]

right on.

[@Dogatemyhomework927]

I just picked up a 1984 key C. Have they changed? Nice review!💯👍🏽

[@Harmonicacom]

Not that I know of

[@kirkemckenzie6402]

Love me Lee Oskar Low F

[@Harmonicacom]

Ya me too!

[@runevistisen]

@@Harmonicacom Hey Luke :) I just got a Lee Oskar Low F, but when I do the 6-hole overblow, some uncomfortable squealing sounds comes with it. Is that common for that harp, and do you have any good advice to avoid them?

[@pamelaskipper5429]

I recieved 5 Lee Oskar harmonicas for Christmas about 20 years ago. I love them. I think Lee corners the market as a professional harmonica musician. I can take them apart to clean them, I fell in love with my D and G.

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks for sharing! I'm a Lee Oskar guy too.

[@bigseanSM]

Do any harmonicas get a 5 star review? I have the special 20 and an East top blues. I like both, but the east top has very poor 1& 2 hole draw notes

[@Harmonicacom]

No nothing gets 5 star review. But my highest rated harps are Hohner Crossover, Golden Melody, Lee Oskar, and I also love the Hohner Rocket, Special 20, and Marine Band. All great harps. You can check out my ratings here: www.harmonica.com/which-harmonica-to-buy/ On the box on the left there's a line that says "harmonica ratings." It's so subjective though. Everyone is different. Even my own tastes and preferences are always changing... Rock on, Luke

[@bontorvernantamardoharsima3990]

What the different between melody maker series and diatonic major??

[@Harmonicacom]

Melody Maker is labeled in the cross-harp (2nd position) key. So a G Melody Maker is comparable to a C diatonic major. As far as tuning goes, the 3 is a whole-step higher, and the -5 is a half-step higher, which effectively allows you to play a major scale in 2nd position, and without having to do the challenging -3". Hope that helps? Aloha, Luke

[@or1227]

It has been two years since you posted the video. So far, which of these two would you recommend in terms of responsiveness and bendability? Thanks

[@Harmonicacom]

Lee Oskar and SP20 are both great in both categories. I get 50/50 of students preferring one to the other.

[@1rwjwith]

My favorites too…

[@Harmonicacom]

👊🏼

[@truenorthmuskoka9077]

I recently bought a Hohner Marine Band in key of C. Im new at this and have nothing to compare. How would you rate the Marine Band with the Lee Oscar.

[@Harmonicacom]

Comprable. Marine Band has better tone, but it's less comfy on the lips.

[@landztranz]

Great vid! i love my Lee Oskars, all minor keys and Melody Makers, but I'm wondering why the vast majority of blues players play harmonicas other than LOs. Do you know? Can you relate to that?

[@Harmonicacom]

Well, it's such a subjective thing, right? Like I can't relate to anyone who chooses to play Suzuki's or Seydel's, lol! ;-) That's just me. There are GREAT players who LOVE them. But I'd say #1 thing would probably be TONE. You really can't beat the tone of Marine Band for that woody Blues sound. If someone's doing a lot of chordal kind of playing, the LO's and Golden Melody's tuned more for single notes. And then if it's modern guys who are doing overblows, as I'm just starting to get into them, I'm finding Lee Oskars aren't the best out of the box for overblows. But then that's really luck of the draw. Ideally harps are setup aftermarket for overblowing. Anyways, that's my $.02. :-) Rock on, Luke

[@landztranz]

@@Harmonicacom Thanks for the prompt response! I find my LOs aren't nearly as good for bending in general, whereas my Blues Harps are very bendable. And re Seydels, I live in Israel and the top blues harp player here plays Seydels, I believe exclusively, and he's great!

[@rickeydenler2385]

How about air tightness and how much air does it take to play the lee oscar my air is limited I am what you call old lol I had a hohner big river give it away did not have enough air to play it I have been playing special 20's and now the rocket amp which is louder easy to play with the least air required .

[@Harmonicacom]

I think it's comparable to a Special 20.

[@scottpritchard2446]

What about Seydel, Suzuki,..Manji, 1847, Pro Master...(I do play the Golden Melody)...

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Scott - Everyone is different. For me personally I'd take a Golden Melody over any of the other brands or models you mentioned.

[@jaciobe]

Is there a lee oskar that compares to the marine band? I have a lee oskar in key of C and wanting another key to play. Not sure if i should go another lee oskar or try a marine band. Or what key to choose. Maybe D??

[@Harmonicacom]

Maybe try a low key like an A or a G. Marine Band Deluxe is nice in those keys. You can get 'em at Rockin' Rons.

[@orangecaprinun]

Hi! I'm looking to get myself a Lee Oskar. It's going to be my first harmonica, but I'm confused about the whole tunings thing. As far as I could tell you're using a major diatonic in this video but you said that it was better for single notes. Is that to say that I can play songs/melodies on this harmonica easier? or is it still for blues. Because I would really like to play covers of pop songs rather than blues, but then what does the melody maker do? And are they both (melody maker and major diatonic) as easy to bend? Finally, this is more of a practical issue, most of the youtube tutorials for songs that I like to learn and play are made with tabs for the common diatonic tuning and not this custom one of the melody maker, so is that going to be a problem for me when trying to learn songs if i get the melody maker? Anyway, thanks mate, you're doing an awesome job and putting out great content! Keep it up!

[@Harmonicacom]

Start with a major diatonic in the key of C. Later on you can explore a MM if you want to it, but it's a totally different thing and you're not gonna be able to follow beginner vids. You can play pop melodies on the major diatonic! I'm excited for you! 😎

[@orangecaprinun]

​@@Harmonicacom Oh wow! Thank you for your reply. I wasn't expecting you'd recommend a major diatonic for melodies/pop to be honest, but you are the expert. plus, it's a good point that I would only be able to follow beginner tutorials with a major diatonic. I guess it boils down to the special 20 vs a Lee Oskar major diatonic since the melody maker is out of the question FOR NOW, lol. I'll have to think long and hard to pull the trigger on either one. In any case, Thank you, sending love from Syria!

[@josephballerini3730]

I like my Lee Oskars because of the comfort

[@josephballerini3730]

And you can purchase new reed plates and save a few bucks.

[@juvenwang]

Some people said "Lee Oskar Harmonica is difficult to overblow." What do you think? (why do you give it a 5 star to bend, if it is hard to overblow?) thanks Luke!

[@Harmonicacom]

Ah yes, that's true. Not good for overblows. The Hohner Crossovers and Golden Melodies I've found best out of the box for overblows. I don't do them, and few people do which is why I didn't include it my rating. If you want to know why, I just wrote about it today: forum.harmonica.com/t/harmonica-overdraws-overblows/6019/16?u=luke

[@michaelruth8359]

Luke, which specific LO harmonica is this one?

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Michael - Lee Oskar only has one kind of harmonica, although he has various tunings (Natural Minor, Melody Maker, and Harmonic Minor.) But I'm using one of his standard tunings key of C for this review.

[@MllxPomPote]

Looking to purchase one as a gift, what key do you recommend getting for a beginner?

[@Harmonicacom]

Definitely C, Alba. Definitely Key of C!

[@elvismemphisgs]

Hi Are these good for Cross Harp What model is that

[@Harmonicacom]

Yes!! Just a regular Lee Oskar harp, key of C.

[@cruz6294]

Opinion about Fender blues deville harp C please!!

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey do you mean the Fender Blues Deluxe? If so: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4HLkpaYn9aIbdE

[@akiten4649]

.I wish that you can tell me if this can play sharp and flat notes Thanks

[@Harmonicacom]

Hmmm. Can you elaborate your question? This is a diatonic harmonica, so you can't play all the chromatic notes in all 3 octaves without learning some advanced techniques. This explains differences between types of harmonica: www.harmonica.com/exploring-the-3-types-of-harmonica/

[@swedenharmonica2076]

Thoughts on the Melody Maker?

[@Harmonicacom]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXi5Zp6BmNxjg8k

[@jacobwoolfington250]

Not sure if I caught it in your video or not, but is the one in the video in the Key of C?

[@Harmonicacom]

Yessir Jacob. This is key of C. Rock on, Luke

[@GrilloTheFlightless]

I first started to learn with a Hohner Pocket Pal as a teenager 27 years ago and it was a cheap, nasty instrument. Then I got my first Lee Oskar and it instantly changed my playing. I found that what I thought were problems with my technique were actually problems with my Pocket Pal which was a cramped, hissy sounding beast. By changing to a LO I suddenly found I could bend effortlessly and notes were so responsive. I’ve exclusively used LO ever since. It’s probably unfair of me to judge all Hohner’s by the Pocket Pal because it was a deliberately cheap bottom of the range instrument, but it put me off for life.

[@Harmonicacom]

LOL. Right on. Lee Oskar rock!

[@saraadams9682]

😢I don’t play the harmonica but would love to learn. At the moment I’m particularly trying to learn the instrumental part of baggy trousers but it has chords on it that I can’t find on my C harmonica. Is there a harmonica that has a minor mode? Which harmonica would you recommend to most easily play this instrumental?

[@Harmonicacom]

Hmmmm. I don't think that's actually a harmonica. I think it's a melodica.

[@saraadams9682]

@@Harmonicacom ah thank you. In the video it’s a harmonica but maybe they were just miming. I have seen they do harmonicas in minor keys so might try that

[@wendysharp8556]

Im a beginner and have a HS 20, and H rocket in G and think ive made a boob in ordering a Lee Oskar in A minor but it says on other side H. Can you tell me which LO to order in an A, as i say im a beginner and been advised to get the LO. Thank you

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Wendy - yeah you got an A Harmonic Minor Lee Oskar which probably isn't what you want if you're not trying to play Eastern music. Depending whom you bought it from, they might let you exchange it. Is your SP 20 key of C?

[@wendysharp8556]

@@Harmonicacom thanks for your reply. Yes I have an Special 20 in C and a rocket amplifier in G. I got chatting to a guy at the weekend who advises to buy a Lee Oskar in an A.

[@stuffnuns]

Tho many use the Lee Oskar harps, and I used to play them, but, man o man, they are really leaky. The cover plates don’t fit precisely, which is why they are leaky, and why they’re called “moustache ripper”. The labeling on the LO’s are confusing to me. A C is a C, whether 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th If you want bendablity, go with the Golden Melody. That harp sounds, to me, much sweeter, less harsh than the Oskar.

[@Harmonicacom]

I also love the Golden Melody harps.

[@EIijahtree]

Do you think the melody maker in the key of G is good for beginner?

[@Harmonicacom]

I'd start with a standard tuning.

[@johnnydee3828]

Hi great review, is the harmonica magnetic? I want to use it with a harplock ... thanks

[@Harmonicacom]

Yes, the Lee Oskars are magnetic. 🤙🏼

[@johnnydee3828]

@@Harmonicacom Thanks 😊

[@tomdelange3710]

Always wanted a LO but unfortunately not available in South Africa. 😥

[@Harmonicacom]

Aw bummer. The Golden Melody is a very similar playing / sounding harp.

[@tomdelange3710]

@@Harmonicacom hi Luke, I've managed to find one online. Should get it in a week's time. Keep up the good work. Love your harp playing technique.

[@markwalmsley5892]

I think Lee oskers are a very good harp don't like wooden combs honer golden melady are good too

[@Harmonicacom]

Yes. I agree Mark!

[@tomryan6389]

I wanted to like Lee Oskars, I really did. Maybe it's because I'm a noob - maybe it's technique, I have 2 of them - in C and D - and I just can't get happy with them. They feel heavy to play and I can't bend the 6 without them squealing. And the bending plastic hinge on one of the cases has already broken. I've had better luck with Special 20's, Marine Bands and Manji's. I'll keep trying with the ones I have, because they get consistently good reviews, but I gotta say... not my favourite.

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on Tom. Harp preferences is totally subjective, and they're are PLENTY of people who will enthusiastically agree with your preferences. My advice is always go with what you love and with what makes you feel inspired! Rock on, my friend!

[@sepultura7771]

I agree,i really wanna like em,but holes 123 sound weak to me,all my Hohners and Suzuki’s sound fine on these holes I like the higher notes ,but something is missing overall

[@bakatterpendam1021]

Please review Suzuki Blues Master

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey - I probably won't get to it soon, so here's some notes I made on it a couple years ago. If I played it again, I might revise some things, but here's a ballpark for you: Suzuki Blues Master phosphor bronze reeds cover plate right into comb (no tin sandwich) Bendability 3 / 5 (10, -2, and -3 all challenging) Comfort 4 /5 (Height of it is bigger) Tone 4 / 5 (Dull tone, weaker projection) Responsiveness 3 / 5 (-2 and -3 sluggish) Looks 3 / 5 TOTAL: 3.6 / 5

[@bakatterpendam1021]

@@Harmonicacom OMG, i already pay for it , but thanks for the review,, I'm a beginner and also a subscriber.. i will pick up some special 20 for next month..