i bought the Xpression 48 because i needed a second chromatic, next to my Hohner Super 64 Performance - of which i am rather protective - to carry with me wherever i go, so i can practice and play whenever i want, and as a spare instrument in case i run into a problem with my Super 64. it doesn't sound as good as the Super 64 - especially for ballads and mellow tunes - but for a regularly priced chromatic you get good value for your money.
the response is good and fast. the straight tuning and short slider action adds to that. the sound is crisp and quite loud for a 'small' chromatic. i had to get used to a strong slider spring again, but that didn't bother me, nor did it really hinder my playing.
although a light and compact instrument, it feels like one smooth solid block of music machine. it sits really good and comfortable in the hands ... much better than my old Toots' Hard Bopper. no sharp edges or angles. no screwheads in the way. and no metaly taste from the copper reed plates because the covers line-up seamlessly with the wide mouthpiece.
the mouthpiece has a semi-circular shape with a large radius ... the perfect shape to support a good embouchure and ideal for a beginner harmonica player. the holes are square with rounded corners and edges. although i am used to a trapezoidaly shaped mouthpiece with round holes, i was pleasantly surprised by the smooth feel combined with the added ease of playing solid single notes.
if i have to add a minus: cross-headed 'parker' screws would have been much easier than having to juggle with a flat screwdriver and risk scratching your instrument while doing maintenance.
