Pricing and availability

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Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Special 20". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

For musicians seeking a harmonica that combines comfort, durability, and a resonant tone, the Special 20 is a standout choice. This harmonica is not only a favorite among seasoned professionals, but also an ideal starting point for beginners eager to explore its versatile sound. Featuring a recessed reed plate, the Special 20 offers unparalleled comfort and playability, setting a benchmark in harmonica design. Its airtight, durable plastic comb pairs perfectly with unique cover plates, ensuring a rich, warm tone that fits seamlessly into any genre, from blues and country to rock and pop.

The Special 20’s design is as innovative as it is reliable, trusted by renowned artists such as John Popper of Blues Traveler. Its superior bending abilities and smooth response make it a formidable choice for expressive, dynamic playing. Additionally, it’s available in 12 major keys and a special Country Tuning, allowing musicians to adapt their sound to any musical setting. Whether you’re jamming in a live setting or recording in the studio, the Special 20 will deliver consistent performance.

Key Features:

  • Recessed reed plate for enhanced comfort
  • Durable, airtight plastic comb
  • Unique cover plates that enhance warm tone
  • Available in 12 major keys, plus a special Country Tuning
  • Ideal for genres like blues, rock, pop, country, and folk
  • Trusted by professional musicians worldwide

Product specs

Brand Hohner
Model 560PBX-C Progressive Series 560 Special 20 Harmonica - Key of C
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories Harmonicas

FAQs

What makes the Hohner Special 20 harmonica suitable for beginners?

The Hohner Special 20 is ideal for beginners due to its comfortable plastic mouthpiece and easy playability. Its recessed reed plates provide a smooth playing experience, making it easier for new players to produce clear notes.

What key is the Hohner Special 20 harmonica in?

The Hohner Special 20 harmonica is available in the key of C, which is a versatile and commonly used key for many musical styles.

How does the Hohner Special 20 compare to the Marine Band harmonica?

The Hohner Special 20 features a plastic comb and recessed reed plates, offering a comfortable playing experience, while the Marine Band has a wooden comb. The Special 20 is known for its smooth tone and is often preferred for its durability and ease of use.

Can the Hohner Special 20 harmonica be used for blues music?

Yes, the Hohner Special 20 is well-suited for blues music due to its rich, full tone and responsive reeds, making it a favorite among blues harmonica players.

Is the Hohner Special 20 harmonica part of the Progressive Series?

Yes, the Hohner Special 20 is part of the Progressive Series, which includes harmonicas designed for versatility and easy playability across various musical styles.

Harmonica com

Harmonica com

Is the Hohner Special 20 Harmonica right for you? (No BS Review)

Video thumbnail for Is the Hohner Special 20 Harmonica right for you? (No BS Review) by Harmonica com

Is the Hohner Special 20 Harmonica right for you? (No BS Review)

Harmonica com

Harmonica com

Video thumbnail for Comparison of the "Progressive" Special 20 vs. the  "Classic" Special 20 by OneHarp

Comparison of the "Progressive" Special 20 vs. the "Classic" Special 20

OneHarp

OneHarp

Video thumbnail for HOHNER Special 20 by HohnerMusic

HOHNER Special 20

HohnerMusic

HohnerMusic

Video thumbnail for Why Do All the Harmonica Legends Play the Hohner Special 20? by HohnerMusic

Why Do All the Harmonica Legends Play the Hohner Special 20?

HohnerMusic

HohnerMusic

Video thumbnail for Jamming with my New Hohner Special 20 in Key of C. Blues Backing Track in G by Dwayne Martin Harmonica Player

Jamming with my New Hohner Special 20 in Key of C. Blues Backing Track in G

Dwayne Martin Harmonica Player

Dwayne Martin Harmonica Player

Video thumbnail for The Special 20 Harmonica with Mitch Grainger by HohnerMusic

The Special 20 Harmonica with Mitch Grainger

HohnerMusic

HohnerMusic

Video thumbnail for Hohner Special 20 Review by Jake Robinson

Hohner Special 20 Review

Jake Robinson

Jake Robinson

Video thumbnail for Семён Рагозин - отзыв о губной гармошке Hohner Special 20 для магазина Глинки.ру by Glinki.Ru

Семён Рагозин - отзыв о губной гармошке Hohner Special 20 для магазина Глинки.ру

Glinki.Ru

Glinki.Ru

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional songwriting that transcends typical alt-country genre boundaries

  • High production value ensures a polished listening experience

  • Versatile performance, excels in both upbeat and mellow tracks

  • Consistently praised for live performance energy and authenticity

  • Clear and well-crafted song lyrics

  • Strong connection to musical roots, maintaining an authentic sound

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Special 20.

Build quality

  • The Special 20's cover plate design contributes to a tighter feel and a distinct sound, especially favored for blues music.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Reeds on the Special 20 may shift out of tune over time, especially with frequent bending; playing with less force may mitigate this.

    Source
  • Factory tuning variability is significant; learning to adjust reed gaps can enhance performance, as initial setups can be inconsistent and affect playability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Easttop T008 harps are noted for their more open cover plates and rounded corners, while the Special 20 is preferred for a bluesier sound.

    Source
  • The Rocket's cover plates are vented, contributing to a brighter and louder sound compared to the muted tone of the Special 20.

    Source
  • Lee Oskar harmonicas are noted to have deeper etched hole numbers, potentially feeling rougher on the lips compared to Special 20.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Buying a set minimizes shipping wait times; a 5-key set of Special 20s is seen as pricey compared to Easttop's 12-key set.

    Source
  • For those considering a set, Rockets include a B flat harmonica, which some prefer over the B harmonica in the Special 20 set.

    Source

User experience

  • Special 20 is comfortable to play and well-made, though some users report reeds wearing out faster than on other brands like Lee Oskar.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning from Special 20 to Rocket note a smoother play due to the combs and covers, making it feel like an upgrade despite identical reed plates.

    Source
  • Some beginners find Lee Oskar harmonicas harder for bending due to potential ringing sounds, while Special 20s offer a more stable bending experience.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Rocket has larger holes than the Special 20, potentially increasing volume and responsiveness, but might be less forgiving for beginners learning single notes.

    Source
  • The Lee Oskar's modular design allows for part swapping, akin to a Fender guitar, enhancing maintenance flexibility.

    Source
  • Special 20 is perceived as more forgiving with air control, making it a preferred choice for beginners struggling with breath management.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Rocket is suggested for players comfortable with clean single notes; beginners might find the Special 20 easier initially.

    Source
  • Lee Oskar harps are praised for their response to amplified play with minimal air, making them suitable for amplified blues performances.

    Source

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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