Tombo launches new ‘short cross’ harmonica

Japanese harmonica specialist, Tombo has designed an all-new style of chromatic harmonica – the Mu-01.

There are currently two types of ‘Slide’ Chromatic harmonicas –  Straight and Cross-Key. Cross-Key Chromatic harmonicas feature wide apertures that allow for more breath to pass through, and therefore provide a good tonal balance on each key and a powerful, full sound. However, the downside has always been in the slide’s longer distance of travel. 

So, Tombo has created a chromatic harmonica with a bigger aperture but shorter slide distance. 

The Short-Cross chromatic harmonica, features a sub-slide which has an inverse movement when the main slide is pressed. As a result, in order to cover a 6mm aperture, a press of only 3mm is needed, thus halving the effort and time required. 

With all moving parts precision engineered to require the minimum of maintenance, the system allows the musician to play fast musical passages with much greater fluidity. 

It also features a comfortably textured mouthpiece which helps to guard against dry lips; cover-plates made of a highly tonally-consistent brass core; and 100% lead-free reeds, which in conjunction with the all-new windsaver design, deliver the now-legendary Tombo sound quality.

The harmonica is available from Barnes & Mullins in two variants: Matt Black – £525 and Pink Gold Plated – £750.