Similar comments for the JT-30/Bluesblaster, even if the tendancy to feedback is less pronounced. Unlike the GB though, because it doesn't distort the sound so much it's easier to obtain a wider range of textures depending on attack, handcup, etc. A little less heavy than the GB but not much more comfortable.

The great advantage of the Shaker lies in its light weight. The design isn't optimal though especially since the volume pot is placed so that cupping is uneasy. It doesn't generate much feedback. From a sound point of view though, it didn't really convince any of the participants. The sound is distorted, true, but it's also very muffled, so much so that the notes are muddied together. Its output is quite weak as well although apparently the XLR models are more gutsy (the one we tested was a jack version).

The first surprise from the Ruskin is to be holding a bullet mic that is so light. Its look is chromed and different from other bullet mics. And finally the sound is at least as convinving as that of a Bluesblaster. The model we tried had no volume pot, which disappointed some testers, but Frank adds them on demand. In the end we all liked it (especially Pascal).

Another good surprise. The Honker really has been thought to be ignored when playing. The rubber ring is stable and ensures that the mic always points towards the harp, not towards the palm of the hand. Its output is powerful and the volume pot is easily accessed. The distorsion box adds colour although when you go full honk it sounds muddied. The only negative aspect is that it is very sensitive to the sound of breathing. The player has to learn not to exhale towards the mic. Marko loved that one so much that he purchased one on the spot.

Hard to admit that an $8 mic can be just as good as a $100 one. But it's true ! Not only does it produce a good healthy sound (at least as good as many of tha other mics mentioned here) but it also looks really cool with the elements and wires showing through the body of the mic. It probably won't last for ages since electronic components are sensitive to time and humidity, but considering the price, that's not much of a drawback !

The first thing that is surprising is how much the Madcat is heavy for this kind of microphone. Unfortunately that makes it fairly uncomfortable, a drawback that isn't compensated by exceptional sound qualities. The sound it produces is quite metallic in a weedy kind of way, and generally fairly disappointing. In the end it's a compromise between acoustic and amplified sound that has the advantages of neither....

Despite its weight the Beta 56 has a shape that makes it decently comfortable. It is powerful and faithfully carries the harmonica frequencies through even though it's originally a drums mic. It is by far the most sensitive of the mics tested here and it picks up the most minute sound inflexions, throat clicks and tongue blocks. Of course it has a tendancy to produce a clearer sound but it does allow for a good attack when necessary.