What’s a Harp Wah ??
The Harp Wah is like a trumpet mute for harmonica players.
This innovative cupping device allows you to achieve a wide range of sounds, from traditional bluesy wah effects to more modern, experimental tones. With its combined resonator and mute effects, the Harp Wah is like a trumpet mute for harmonica players, allowing you to shape your sound in previously unimaginable ways.
That's the blurb from Roly Platt, who should know, as he designed, developed and manufactured these amazing accessories. (YouTube has many, many videos, several by Roly, showing the Harp Wah in use. While you are at it, have a look at Jason Ricci playing one with a bullet hole!)
You could use a coffee cup or an old tin can and get a similar effect, but those can be difficult to hold, have sharp edges and, perhaps most importantly, mainly push the sound back towards the player - so they sound great to you, but less so to your audience.
The Harp Wah is ergonomically designed, it's rounded shape being comfortable to hold, with the added handle ensuring you can keep it in place, while the slot allows the sound to project forward. It looks pretty big initially, but most people find they can hold it comfortably.
Is it an essential buy? No probably not. Is it cheap? Not really, but at least it doesn't STILL smell of pilchards! (Or is that just my experience??)
But the bottom line is, is it fun? And that is a definite YES!
