Hohner HB52 Harp Blaster Microphone by sE Electronics
sE Electronics
MZ20201
HOHNER & sE Electronics HB52 Harp Blaster: The New Standard for Harmonica ... and Beyond!
The Harp Blaster HB52 is the result of a landmark collaboration between HOHNER—the world's leading harmonica manufacturer—and sE Electronics. Designed from the ground up with input from professional players, the HB52 combines the sought-after "Chicago Blues" grit of legendary vintage microphones with the reliability and precision of modern manufacturing. This isn't just a repurposed vocal mic; it is a high-performance tool engineered specifically for the hands and mouth of the harmonica artist.
We here at Drum Center of Portsmouth have found this to be a pretty cool supplementary microphone for snare drums, adding quite a bit of mid-range character and grit. We suggest you give it a try!
Vintage Soul, Modern Engineering
The HB52 was modeled after the response of iconic vintage "bullet" microphones, but built to survive the rigors of the road:
- Hand-Crafted Dynamic Capsule: Featuring a copper voice coil and a powerful Neodymium magnet, the capsule is highly reactive to hand-cupping techniques, delivering a warm, thick, and saturated tone.
- High-Impedance (High-Z) Output: With a 45 kOhm impedance, this mic is designed to drive tube amplifiers directly without the need for impedance converters or boost pedals.
- "Hammer-Thru" Durability: The rock-solid, all-metal housing is constructed from die-cast zinc alloy. It’s so tough that sE famously claims you could "drive nails with it."
Boutique Performance Features
To meet the demands of professional stage use, the HB52 includes high-end components usually reserved for custom boutique builds:
- Bourns® Potentiometer: A world-class volume control that is smooth, reliable, and slip-proof. It allows for precise gain staging and can even be disabled internally if you prefer a "wide-open" signal.
- Gold-Plated XLR Connector: Unlike traditional harmonica mics with fixed cables or 1/4" jacks, the HB52 uses a standard XLR connection for maximum signal security and easy cable replacement.
- Ergonomic Design: The compact, "cup-friendly" shape and flat grille make it easier to achieve a perfect airtight seal with your hands—the key to unlocking a fat, amplified tone.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capsule Type | Dynamic (Neodymium/Copper) |
| Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional |
| Frequency Range | 22 Hz – 16,000 Hz |
| Electrical Impedance | 45 kOhms (High-Z) |
| Connector | 3-pin Gold-Plated Male XLR |
| Weight | 205 g (7.23 oz.) |
In the box: HB52 Harp Blaster Microphone, Leatherette Pouch, and a Microfiber Cloth.
| Brand: | sE Electronics |
|---|---|
| Series: | B52 |