Harp Wah Demo | Harmonica Mute Intro & Review

Liam Ward
Feb 27, 2021
2 min read

Updated: Jun 24

Harp Wah device, sitting next to two harmonicas, in front of white background. — Roly Platt's Harp Wah

Hello! This week I'm introducing the Harp Wah, designed by Roly Platt. Watch the video to hear a demo or read on to find out more.

If you've ever wanted more expressive control over your harmonica tone - something closer to the sound-shaping freedom of a trumpet mute or a guitarist’s wah pedal - the Harp Wah might just be the tool you’re looking for. Designed specifically for harmonica players, it’s a hand-held tone-shaping device that opens up a world of sonic possibilities. Let’s take a closer look at what it is and how it works.

What Is the Harp Wah?

The Harp Wah is a specially-designed, lightweight cup that players can use to create wah-wah, muted, and resonant effects on the harmonica. Much like how brass players use a mute or how blues harp players use hand effects to modulate their tone, the Harp Wah gives you a consistent, controllable way to shape your sound.

Invented by harmonica player Roly Platt, the Harp Wah is essentially a custom-made resonator designed to be held over the end of the harmonica. Unlike using your hands alone, it offers a more focused and powerful sound, with the ability to produce both subtle and dramatic tonal changes.

What Does It Sound Like?

The Harp Wah can produce a range of effects, from subtle tone shifts to dramatic wah-wah sweeps. It excels in blues, jazz, and roots styles, but creative players are finding uses for it across all genres. By simply adjusting how you move the Wah relative to the harmonica, you can mimic vocal-like phrasing or add rhythmic punctuation to your playing.

Here’s a taste of what it can do:

Create crying, mournful effects for blues ballads
Add percussive 'talking' tones in up-tempo solos
Shape muted tones that blend beautifully in ensemble playing
Produce ghost notes or breathy accents in acoustic settings

Watch the video below to hear the Harp Wah in action!

P.S. There is a giveaway competition in the video. Unfortunately, the deadline has passed so you can no longer enter.

Is the Harp Wah Right for You?

I have been surprised by how much I love the Harp Wah. I find it a fun and rewarding tool. If you're someone who enjoys the expressive potential of the harmonica and wants to expand your tonal palette, this might be the next step in your playing journey.

Essentially, it will give you an exaggerated version of your normal hand wah, with a more tunnelled and focused sound. A cheaper (or free!) way to mimic this sound is by using a mug or pint glass, but I do believe the Harp Wah is more comfortable and effective.

To find out more about the Harp Wah, or to order one, visit Roly Platt's website.