Klarinet Archive - Posting 000175.txt from 1994/11

From: "Dan Leeson: LEESON@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Clarinet overhaul
Date: Fri, 11 Nov 1994 09:59:57 -0500

The price of an overhaul can possibly be reduced if the owner of the
instrument is prepared to eliminate some cosmetic aspects of the overhaul.
For example, key buffing is labor intensive. I know it looks gorgeous
and there is a positive impact on one's playing if the instrument looks
wonderful, but it is not a technical necessity. Ask if the price can
be reduced if you eliminate the key buffing.

Second, visit the repairperson and ask what can be eliminated. Ask if
recorking of all tenons is necessary. How about mouthpiece recorking?

It may not be correct to presume that an overhaul will make the instrument
as good as new. That depends on several factors, not the least of which
is the experience and expertise of the repairperson, the condition and
repairability of the instrument. A poorly overhauled instrument is not
going to be as good as new. It may be worse than it is now.

If the teacher who suggested the overhual is involved, one presumes that
the technician's work is professional. But ask around. Call someone who
has had work done by that technician and inquire.

Just because someone in the next town offers an overhaul at $200 as
opposed to the $350 that is being requested, does not mean that the work
at $200 will be as good as that at $350. It might be better, the same,
or much worse. Reputation is important.

Has the repairperson indicated the likely results of his/her efforts?
Do he or she suggest that the instrument is too old for satisfactory
repair? Is the instrument so old that it might be difficult to get
certain parts other than by cannibalizing older instruments. What kind
of pads will you get for the proposed price?

I do find that $350 is on the high side. We don't pay that for
overhauls here on the west coast from the very best technicians. The
going price is about $300. But if the repairperson is simply super,
it is something that is worth whatever you have to pay.

Is there a warranty on the repair? How long is it? How long will you
be without the instrument?

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Dan Leeson, Los Altos, California
(leeson@-----.edu)
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