Suzuki A-32 (1967-72)
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I posted some time ago on the 1973-82 Suzuki Melodion A-32, successor to the first 32 key Suzuki Melodion, the original A-32, which was introduced in 1967. I recently had the good fortune to acquire a new 1967-72 A-32 in the original box. It plays like a new Suzuki Melodion and came out of the box pretty well tuned at A=441. The design of this particular model is very slick, quite similar to that of the original Suzuki A-25 (1968-72), with smooth surfaces and tighter in design than the later models. The finish of the metal tray is smooth, rather than being textured like later models and today’s M-32C. It is the easiest 32 key melodica I have seen to grip in the left hand, noticeably narrower than the M-32C. Its key action is comparable to that of the M-32C. Like other older Suzukis, its sound is somewhat clearer, less muted than that of today’s metal tray Suzukis. This A-32 (this particular one, at least) is one of the first (if not the first) Suzuki Melodion to sport the now familiar Suzuki rocker arm spit valve mechanism, which works exceptionally well on this particular instrument. A strong stream of air is easily vented. You’ll see the much more recent MP-142 mouthpiece in a couple of these photos. A match made in heaven, I think, in terms of the look and feel of this particular Melodion.
That would be this A-32:
If in good playing condition, it’s a very good vintage model, Michael. Values for vintage Japanese melodicas are not well established. It really depends upon what someone is willing to pay. If you were looking for one of these, you’d probably have to find it on a Japanese auction sight and get it for under $20 but pay $40 for delivery, which is how I got mine. In the U.S. I’d put it on eBay with a starting bid of $40. You might end up having to lower that. Knowing this model, if I wanted one I’d be willing to pay about $70 delivered. It also depends on its condition. I’d want to see detailed photos and know that it was air tight with good key action up and down the keyboard – all notes playing of course. But I’d also suggest posting in the Members’ Trade and Swap forum here.
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