Seydel 16501A Blues 1847 Noble — Key A Harmonica

The Seydel 16501A Blues 1847 Noble in Key A harmonica represents the apex of handcrafted excellence, commemorating Seydel’s founding in 1847. This limited-edition model blends vintage-inspired aesthetics with cutting-edge materials and precision engineering. From its solid brass cover plates evoking classic instruments to its African Blackwood comb and proprietary 1847 stainless steel reeds, every component has been meticulously selected and finished by master artisans in Klingenthal, Germany.

1 | Historical Inspiration and Design Vision

Honoring over 175 years of harmonica innovation, the Blues 1847 Noble series reflects a commitment to quality and tonal integrity that dates back to Seydel’s earliest instruments. The Key A edition extends this legacy, offering a harmonica tuned to A Major’s versatile range—perfect for cross-harp blues, rock solos, and melodic folk passages. Its design philosophy centers on creating a noble voice: one that melds the warmth of antique instruments with the playability and durability demanded by modern professionals.

2 | Brass Cover Plates: Warmth and Durability

The cover plates are cast from premium solid brass, then milled to tolerances within mere microns to ensure a seamless fit. A hand-applied satin finish highlights brass’s natural golden hue while reducing glare under performance lighting. Ergonomic beveling around the mouthpiece prevents discomfort, and the robust brass structure imparts warmth and resonance, enriching the midrange frequencies and contributing to the harmonica’s signature tonal depth.

3 | African Blackwood Comb: Resonance and Stability

The comb is precision-machined from sustainably sourced African Blackwood, known for its density and superior acoustic properties. Hand-sanded and sealed with a proprietary finish, the comb resists moisture-driven swelling and maintains airtightness. Its dark grain furnishes a warm, rich tonal foundation, while ergonomic contours and smooth mouthpiece transitions provide exceptional comfort during extended play.

4 | 1847 Stainless Steel Reeds and Brass Plates

Central to the Noble’s performance are Seydel’s proprietary 1847 stainless steel reeds, laser-cut and heat-tempered to achieve optimal flexibility and longevity. Mounted on solid brass plates, these reeds combine bright attack with sustained warmth. Each reed is individually voiced, guaranteeing balanced output, precise bending capability, and stable tuning across all ten holes.

5 | Chargeable Reed-Plate Assembly

Although luxurious, maintenance remains accessible. The reed-case assembly is affixed with brass screws, enabling straightforward removal with the included precision screwdriver. A custom wooden brush facilitates cleaning of both comb and plates, allowing musicians to service the instrument without specialized tools. Regular maintenance ensures decades of peak performance.