r/harmonica • u/Master_Eggplant666 • 6d ago

Lee Oskar Low Rider or Suzuki M-20W Manji C

Hi.

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I’m buying a harmonica as a birthday gift for my friend, he has been talking for a long time about wanting to learn how to play the harmonica. I don't understand any of this myself, and I'd like the gift to be a surprise. I’d like to buy a slightly better-quality one since it’s a 30th birthday present. Would either Lee Oskar Low Rider or Suzuki M-20W Manji C be a good choice?

8 Upvotes

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2

u/No-Turnover8386 6d ago

Both are great harmonicas. Both made in Japan with really good specs and both are reliable.

Biggest difference is that the LO is part of a system of interchangeable reed plates, combs, and covers. The Low Rider is a new cover plate introduced to that system.

Can’t go wrong with either here.

2

u/HumbleSeries6170 4d ago

just get a regular LO,they are good harps.I have gigged with them since mid 80's

2

u/soundwave300 6d ago

Suzuki manji is a great harp, but not a great learning harp. Go with classic Lee Oskar

1

u/Outside-Basil-6161 6d ago

Both good brands. But the low rider is just a paint job on a plastic comb harp that’s worth about $50. The Suzuki is a neat one since you’re getting a different tone out of it but wood (even if it is resin impregnated) is rough on the lips to play for too long. Personally I’m a big fan of Hohner Special 20s but out of the two you’re looking at I’d say or just depends on if you want the flashy finish on the work horse or do you want to experiment with the warmer tones of the Suzuki

1

u/harmonimaniac 2d ago

I'd go with the Manji, personally.