I started on a Marine Band and IMHO is a good starting harp. Kind of the standard that other harps are judged by. A lot of good blues was originally done on a marine band. Of course it was a better choice when it was 5 bucks. The Blues Harp doesn't seem too much different. I've played Hohner Special 20s now for years now and they play very nice. They are not that much more expensive than a Marine band, though it does add up when you buy all keys. With the plastic comb, they are more airtight than the Marine Band or Blues Harp and also easier on the lips. The reeds seem the same to me. I have heard that some people prefer the sound of a wood comb.

I have recently begun experimenting with Bushman's. They are a little more expensive but I had heard good things. I didn't care for the Soul's Voice. The wider spacing between holes didn't feel right to me. I am probably just used to Hohners. I was very impressed with the Delta Frost, at least at first. It is set up like a special 20 with the plastic comb and was very fast and easy on the mouth. I had a key of A and it was very responsive. It had a slightly different tone that was intriguing. Then I ordered a bunch more keys and was less impressed. The higher keys choked easier and seemed to play a bit out of tune. It may be a control thing. The jury is still out....

Bob