At Sound House, we carry a wide range of products from guitars and speakers to smaller instruments like harmonicas. When you think of harmonicas, artists like Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi and Koji Iwasawa from Yuzu might come to mind♪
Harmonicas are generally divided into three main types: 10-hole (diatonic) harmonicas, tremolo harmonicas, and chromatic harmonicas.
This time, I’ll be introducing some recommended models specifically from the tremolo harmonica category!
TOMBO / Tombo Premium 21 #3521 Tremolo Harmonica
One of the most popular models among TOMBO’s line of tremolo harmonicas. It features a resin body that offers greater durability compared to traditional wooden bodies, which is perfect for long playing sessions without worry. Its standout feature is the rich, resonant tone, full of overtones! While it retains the traditional shape of a wooden-bodied harmonica, it uses screws to secure the body and reed plates, making it easier to maintain and adjust. And with an impressive lineup of 30 different keys, you’ll have plenty of options to match your playing needs!
SUZUKI / SU-21 Humming Tremolo Harmonica C
The Suzuki Humming is known for its easy playability and rich tone. Even with light breath, it produces a clear, beautiful sound. It features a “Do” position marker, making it easy for beginners to find their starting note with a glance.
With high airtightness, there’s no breath leakage, and the sound response is excellent. You can effortlessly express dynamics, from soft to strong playing.
This is a well-rounded model that’s ideal for both beginners and experienced players alike!
TOMBO / Super Deluxe Iwasaki Solo #1921S Tremolo Harmonica C
A top-of-the-line tremolo harmonica! This premium model was developed under the supervision of Shigeaki Iwasaki, a leading figure in the world of tremolo harmonicas — which is why “Iwasaki” appears in the product name♪
The reeds are finely adjusted with a low reed gap, allowing the instrument to respond even to gentle breath. This makes it easy to play delicate passages with precision.
Most of all, its soft, beautiful tone truly stands out. The body is designed to be as slim as possible, making it extremely comfortable and easy to play.
HOHNER / Echo-Harp 2×32 54/64
Compared to the other tremolo harmonicas I introduced so far, this one has a slightly unusual design.The Echo-Harp 2×32 features two keys — C and G that are arranged back-to-back, and each side covers a 2-octave range. This means you don’t need to switch instruments when changing keys! The two reeds are slightly detuned from each other, creating that classic, rich tremolo sound that’s both vibrant and beautiful♪
TOMBO / Special Tombo Band #1521 Tremolo Harmonica C
First released in 1927, the “Special Tombo Band” is a long-selling tremolo harmonica that has been loved by players for generations. It features a wooden body that produces a warm, rich tone that only wood can provide. Its gentle tremolo sound embodies the traditional Japanese tremolo harmonica tone. This model is especially recommended for those who enjoy playing children’s songs, enka, tango, and other classic melodies from around the world. It’s also available in a wide range of 40 different keys, just like the “Tombo Premium 21”, which gives you plenty of options to choose from!
So, what did you think?
While many first-time harmonica players tend to start with a 10-hole diatonic, there are also plenty of beginner-friendly tremolo harmonicas that are easy to play.
I encourage you to try out the unique sound experience that only tremolo harmonicas can offer♪