JDR Trochilus Solo and Blues Richter Chromatic Harmonica Unboxing, First Impressions and Comparisons

[@bluesbun2278]

Hello, I am the designer of Bun Trochilus, and I am also a harmonica lover. After receiving the JDR notification, I took a closer look at the problem described in your video. For the problems you feel, I will give you some answers, hoping to help you: the problem of inconsistent volume of the yellow model is mainly because the arrangement of the blowing reed of the single hole will lead to different sound effects. Because the Trochilus does not have a diaphragm, the blowing reed shares the same air duct, so when a single reed vibrates, the other reed will cause interference, which is a common phenomenon in the traditional ten-hole harmonica "double reed pressure". When the pitch difference of the blowing reed in a single hole is only half a tone, this sense of leakage and a brighter tone will be especially obvious. You will feel that the fa and do tones in particular on the lower register will be brighter and louder, this is a normal phenomenon, and this will be mitigated to some extent by controlling breath and mouth movements. In addition, when the blowing sound is higher than the inspiratory pitch in a single hole, the hole is the blowing pressure sound, so when you play the do of the fourth hole, if the tone is very sharp, the reed is actually in a state of pressure sound (the do of the eighth hole has the same phenomenon, but it is relatively less obvious). In addition to changing the mouth and breath, you can also solve the problem of uneven volume and timbre by partially or completely laminating the Trochilus. The effect is immediate. When you apply the diaphragm to the Trochilus, its air tightness and timbre are equivalent to that of a traditional chromatic harmonica. I hope my answer can solve your confusion, have any questions feel free to leave a message. In addition, thank you for your support, the video production is very hard! I can feel your love and expectation for this instrument. We will continue to work hard!❤❤

[@FilipJersMusic]

Hi Bun! Great meeting you in Seoul this summer! Yes, you are correct, it is physics between semitones in the same reed chamber. Strange phenomenon.

[@drfretboard]

Thanks for the explanation @bluesbun2278. Can you elaborate on what you mean by "diaphragm" and by "laminating"?

[@bluesbun2278]

@@FilipJersMusic Yes, thank you. Look forward to seeing you again😊

[@bluesbun2278]

@@drfretboard Sorry I didn't see your message in time, I replied to you on Facebook

[@jwvandegronden]

22:30 I love that tone! You can almost hear the wood. Warm, crystal clear. Best so far but I’m a n00b finding his way around a possible new hobby. But that sound is absolutely tickling al sorts of taste buds…

[@drfretboard]

Brass reeds and wooden comb is what made Hohner great. Certainly still the sound of the great innovators Toots Thielemans and Larry Adler. The Trochilus has an ABS comb, phosphor bronze reeds, and no valves. All factors contributing to tone.

[@woelneberg]

Great video! It's a shame JDR is not taking QC seriously. I hoped mine was a special occasion, because the design and innovation is very promising. I stick to my old trusty Easttop Forerunner for practicing without Valves.

[@drfretboard]

I had a very good response from JRD, I'll update here when the matter is crystallised.