Melodica Question

I'm toying with the idea of buying a melodica, but I have no idea what I'm looking for and can't test one out locally.

I've found this 37 key model made by Excalibur. There's an audio clip at the following link:

http://www.jimlaabsmusic.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=2763

I also saw some recommendations for this Hohner on another board. http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Hohner-HM36-Professional-36-Melodica?sku=420630

Any advice?

Incidentally, I can't seem to find a way to search the forum now. Has that functionality been removed, or am I just having a moment?

I have the Hohner with a few less keys and the tone's pretty close to a real accordion. I just wish it had midi out and a pitch stick to control my Monomachine since it's small size is very convenient

Thanks for the answer. How does the sound compare the the Exaclibur link I posted?

I had a Hohner melodica years ago when I was travelling a lot (backpacking and hitchhiking) and couldn't take any keyboards with me, certainly it sounded close to an accordian and I also think it would be great to see a new version with midi out, but that would likely be an expensive proposition.

Clyde

I have a hohner 32-key. It sounds more mellow, less reedy, than the audio example you linked to. I like both sounds, though, and compared to synths they're dirt-cheap.

I have two Hohners, a red one with 'buttons' and a grey one with piano keys, and I play them all the time, they're so expressive! If you like to hear the sound of the grey one, check out the songs "where you are" and especially "fridge poetry" on my soundclick site!