Hohner M590056 Big River Harp MS in E – Diatonic Harmonica

Quick Product Summary

The Hohner M590056 Big River Harp MS in E is a versatile 10-hole diatonic harmonica combining reliable modern construction with the expressive response expected from Hohner's MS Series. Its durable black ABS comb, 20 brass reeds and stainless-steel cover plates provide a comfortable, dependable playing experience suited to folk, country, blues, rock and general melodic harmonica playing.

Tuned to E major, this version delivers a bright, lively voice with plenty of projection. As part of Hohner's MS – Modular System – Series, its comb, reed plates and cover plates can be interchanged with compatible MS components, making the Big River Harp an excellent choice for players who value straightforward maintenance and long-term versatility.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Hohner
Model	Big River Harp MS
Product Code	M590056
Series	MS – Modular System
Type	Diatonic Harmonica
Key	E Major
Tuning	Richter
Holes	10
Reeds	20 Brass Reeds
Comb	Black ABS
Condition	New
Best For	Folk, Country, Blues, Rock & Roots
Main Appeal	Durable construction, bright E tuning and modular MS design

What Makes the Hohner Big River Harp MS Special?

The Hohner Big River Harp MS offers a practical combination of responsive diatonic performance and robust construction. Its resilient black ABS comb provides consistent performance across changing temperatures and humidity levels, while 20 brass reeds deliver the dynamic response needed for melodies, chords, bends and expressive articulation. Curved stainless-steel cover plates provide a comfortable shape in the hands while contributing to the instrument's familiar Hohner feel.

Its biggest practical advantage is Hohner's MS Modular System. The comb, reed plates and cover plates can be interchanged with compatible components from other MS Series harmonicas, giving players additional flexibility for maintenance, replacement and experimentation. Torx screw construction further simplifies access when servicing is required.

Who Is It For?

The Big River Harp MS in E is a strong choice for beginners, developing players and experienced musicians looking for an affordable and dependable diatonic harmonica.

Hohner particularly positions the Big River Harp towards western, folk and Nashville-style country playing, although its standard Richter tuning makes it equally capable for blues, rock and roots music.

The higher E tuning provides a bright and projecting sound that works particularly well when the harmonica needs to remain clearly defined alongside guitars and other instruments.

Why Choose a Diatonic Harmonica in E?

An E major harmonica has a bright and energetic voice, sitting higher in pitch than common C and D models. This added clarity can help melodies and rhythmic phrases cut through a busy arrangement.

It is useful for direct first-position playing in E and can also be used across a wide range of folk, country and popular music.

For blues musicians using second-position or cross-harp technique, an E harmonica is commonly used when playing in the key of B.

Durable ABS Comb

The Big River Harp MS uses a black ABS comb, providing reliable performance without the moisture-related swelling that can affect traditional untreated wooden combs.

This makes it particularly practical for regular practice, rehearsals, travel and live performance, where the instrument may experience changing temperatures and humidity.

The smooth ABS mouthpiece surface also contributes to comfortable everyday playability.

MS Modular System

The Big River Harp belongs to Hohner's MS – Modular System – Series.

Its comb, reed plates and cover plates are interchangeable with compatible components from other Hohner MS Series harmonicas. This modular approach makes compatible component replacement easier and gives players scope to experiment with different MS configurations.

Responsive Brass Reeds

The Big River Harp MS features 20 brass reeds mounted on 0.9 mm brass reed plates.

The reed system reacts naturally to changes in breath pressure and articulation, providing the control required for clear melodies, rhythmic chords and more expressive playing techniques.

Its standard Richter layout also gives players access to familiar diatonic harmonica techniques as their playing develops.

Curved Stainless-Steel Covers

The stainless-steel cover plates feature a curved profile designed for comfortable handling.

Their robust construction makes the Big River Harp suitable for regular use while providing the familiar shape and feel associated with traditional 10-hole diatonic harmonicas.

Torx Screw Construction

The Big River Harp MS uses Torx screws to provide secure assembly while allowing straightforward access when maintenance is required.

Combined with the modular MS architecture, this makes the instrument particularly practical for musicians who want a harmonica that can be maintained over the longer term.

What's Included?

• Hohner M590056 Big River Harp MS Harmonica

• Key of E

• Hohner protective snap case

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Hohner
Model	Big River Harp MS
Product Code	M590056
Series	MS – Modular System
Instrument Type	Diatonic Harmonica
Key	E Major
Tuning	Richter
Number of Holes	10
Number of Reeds	20
Reed Material	Brass
Reed Plate Material	Brass
Reed Plate Thickness	0.9 mm
Comb Material	ABS
Comb Colour	Black
Mouthpiece Surface	ABS
Cover Plate Material	Stainless Steel
Construction	MS Modular System
Fasteners	Torx Screws
Tonal Range	3 Octaves
Length	Approx. 10.5 cm

FAQs

What key is the Hohner M590056 Big River Harp MS?

The Hohner M590056 Big River Harp MS is tuned to E major.

Is the Big River Harp MS suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Big River Harp MS is designed to provide an accessible introduction to quality diatonic harmonica playing while remaining suitable for more experienced musicians.

What styles of music is the Big River Harp designed for?

It is particularly well suited to folk, western and Nashville-style country music, while its Richter tuning also makes it highly capable for blues, rock and roots playing.

What key can I play in using an E harmonica in second position?

An E harmonica is commonly used for playing blues in B when using second-position, also known as cross-harp playing.

How does an E harmonica sound compared with a C harmonica?

An E harmonica is pitched higher than C, producing a brighter, more lively and projecting tonal character.

What does MS mean?

MS stands for Modular System. Compatible Hohner MS Series combs, reed plates and cover plates can be interchanged, providing additional flexibility for maintenance and component replacement.

How many holes does the Big River Harp MS have?

It features the traditional 10-hole diatonic harmonica layout.

How many reeds does it have?

The Big River Harp MS uses 20 brass reeds, providing blow and draw notes across its 10 holes.

Does the Big River Harp MS have a wooden comb?

No. It uses a durable black ABS comb, providing reliable performance across changing environmental conditions.

Can notes be bent on the Big River Harp MS?

Yes. As a Richter-tuned diatonic harmonica, the Big River Harp can be used for expressive techniques including note bending, vibrato and blues-style articulation.

Is the Big River Harp MS chromatic?

No. It is a diatonic harmonica using Richter tuning and does not have the slide mechanism found on chromatic harmonicas.

Is the Big River Harp MS easy to maintain?

Yes. Its Torx screw construction and modular MS design make access and compatible component replacement relatively straightforward.

What is the advantage of an ABS comb?

ABS is resistant to moisture and does not swell in the way untreated wooden combs potentially can. This makes it an excellent material for regular practice, rehearsals and performance.

Does the Big River Harp MS come with a case?

Yes. A practical Hohner snap case is included for convenient storage and transportation.

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