See it here:
The Harp Wah™
The 1st Non-attaching Cup Mute for Diatonic Harp.
Get classic “cup” sounds conveniently and more efficiently.
“This was something I originally created just for my own use…”
After enjoying the benefits of his invention himself in the studio and in live gigs, Roly decided to product this innovative harmonica product and offer it to all diatonic players who are looking to add a new dimension to their harp sound kit.
Playing harmonica into a “cup” or “mug” for effect is usually a “demonstrative” technique – a one-off thing. Impressive but probably not much use beyond that.
I saw It Differently.
I’ve always thought the “cup mute” effect should be used in the same way a trumpet player would use a mute – in the right place, it’s a great effect.
I tried the old-school technique (literally playing into a cup) on a few recordings and live situations, but I found it awkward – especially when trying to aim the sound into a microphone EQUALLY IMPORTANT, was that I found it very limiting when trying to just play as freely as I normally do, (without the restrictions of holding a cup).