I had a cheap diatonic harmonica in G for years and only messed about with it without really learning how to play. When I decided to take things further, research suggested that the Lee Oskars were good quality and maybe a bit easier for learning how to bend notes.
I can't comment on the ease of bending because I haven't tried any other good quality makes yet, but I am now able to do bends fairly well (and getting better the more I practice). However, the thing that stood out the most with the Lee Oskar compared to the cheap harp was the sheer volume and responsiveness. It is far louder, much more responsive, and brighter sounding. It's as if the cheap harp has something added to the reeds make it sound dull and lifeless. Although I'm by no means a serious harp player, I would not buy a cheapie again - even if just playing for fun, a good sound can make a big difference.
One thing I'm less keen on with the Lee Oskar is that I get some discomfort in my left hand, between the thumb and first finger, when using a microphone. It seems to be the edge of the comb at the end, which is quite square. It could be the way I'm holding it, but I note elsewhere that someone else took to sanding down the edge a little to make it a bit more rounded. I take this to be simply due to the shape (or maybe my technique) and not something specific to Lee Oskar. For my next harp, I might try one of the types with full width covers that have more rounded ends (like a Seydel Session).
Another plus point for the Lee Oskars is that repalcement reed plates are available for about half the cost of a new harp.
Overall, a very good harmonica which has inspired me to play much more than the cheapie ever did.
