Hohner 257-C Chrometta 14 Harmonica, Chromatic, Key of C, Silver

I like it.Chromettas always seem to play easier from to to bottom than higher priced harmonicas.I just purchased a Suzuki Chromatic 64, and although it is a really nice instrument, I really enjoy playing the Chrometta much more. It's lighter, my lips don't stick to it while sliding up and down the scale and the slide works really nice.The Chrometta and the Chromatix are really set apart as far as sound goes. The Chrometta being more raspy and gritty while the Chromatix has smooth jazzy sound, more like a sax. The Chrometta seems less affected by moisture, even though they both have wind savers.I don't play professionally, so as a non-professional I would recommend the Chrometta.It's really easy to learn on and a much more forgiving instrument.I also own a SeydelDeluxe Steel and I prefer playing the Chrometta over that, simply because of the lip friction involved. The Seydel has a very sticky mouth piece, probably because of silver content in the plating.The mouth piece on the Chrometta is plastic and the holes are very large in comparison to anything else which in turn, lends itself to an easier playing experience. Less friction. No need to lick it to slide easy. Keeps the harmonica dryer inside.I have a 10 and a 14.Going to get a12 soon.The 8 just doesn't have enough room for my repertoire, or I'd get one of those also.

The mouthpiece of this harmonica is 11mm vs 8mm of the other Hohner harmonicas. You have to change the habits in order to play it.The worst thing is, you ARE NOT ALLOWED to return it.Think twice before you do anything.

I play a lot of instruments by ear, but one I've never done before was a harmonica. I mean, yeah, like most kids I've messed around with toy ones when little, but never something more substantial.This arrived quickly, in a small vinyl carrying case that snaps open (only downside, wish it had used a magnetic catch rather than the snaps). There's no padding or soft material inside, just the vinyl, but other than the snaps inside, there's nothing to scratch or mar the harmonica, and even the snaps are smoothly painted inside, so shouldn't pose any issues.The harmonica itself is large but very comfortable in the hand. The slide mechanism works very smoothly, and it is very easy to shift the keys while playing.Sound is beautiful. But then again, as I said, I'm not a harmonica player, so all I have to compare it to are other harmonicas I've heard, both adult ones as well as toys. But this one sounds better than any other one I've heard so far. Very rich and vibrant, and the reeds are very responsive to changes in breath.This is something I'm looking forward to learning more of, and I think this will be a great harmonica to try with.

having problems with harmonica at times notes do not play, then later on they play not good when playing with a small band

I bought this harmonica because I needed the notes below middle C. I'm returning to playing the harmonica after too many absent years, my old Hohner 270 has seen better days and the 270's lowest note is middle C. I figured this Chrometta 14 would get me back in the game without spending too much. The Chromettas are made in China instead of Germany even still the list price on this guy is $212. I snagged mine for half that.The Chrometta has good sound and the slide doesn't get stuck like my old 270 does but that's probably because the Chromettas are leaky. The holes are on the large side too. I knew what I was getting into because I've had a Chrometta 10 for years and it hasn't let me down yet. The Chromettas are a good choice for someone who wants to try a Chromatic harmonica, or like me, use it for practice until I know if I need the extended range or not. The best chromatic harmonicas are expensive. This inexpensive Chrometta lets me test drive while I discover which harmonica(s) suit me best long term.

I give this chromatic 5 stars, simply because I think it is the best sounding chromatic (to my ear, when playing) that I own. I bought it because I had read so many reports that it sounds beautiful. I own some very expensive chromatics and I prefer the sound of my Crometta. It is well constructed, but not as 'solid' as the very expensive harmonicas. I have found the large square holes take some getting use to, but I like them as I get a more direct feeling that inhale/exhale = beautiful sound. The slide has a long throw and that may be a problem for some. It is smooth, but can be a bit noisy. I have had it for close to 2 months and it has become the chromatic I play and prefer.

Great instrument. Great price.

Amazon advertises that this in made in Germany , but it is not. And I will not buy from China. That’s whereThis is made. It is not worth the price that is being demanded.