Klarinet Archive - Posting 000044.txt from 1994/12

From: Donald Oehler <dloehler@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Yamaha Clarinets..
Date: Mon, 5 Dec 1994 23:13:18 -0500

On Mon, 5 Dec 1994 JLYTTHANS@-----.COM wrote:

> David Brewer recently inquired about Yamaha clarinets, and their pro and
> "Conns" (no pun intended):
>
> I purchased a pair of YCL-72CS's last summer at the ICA for a little over a
> $1,000 each with double case (no tax!) just because (1) I really liked their
> sound, and (2) the price was right. Actually I (we) collect clarinets
> (that's my wife speaking). When I returned home in late summer, I started
> playing on them in rehearsals and recording sessions. My colleagues started
> making nice comments about my "new sound". Such things as "more centered
> tone", and "better intonation and balance". Since then I've used these
> clarinets exclusively, with great success. The tonal eveness from top to
> bottom is better that my (fairly new) R13s, as is the resistance. The tone
> quality in both clarinets is dark, but focused and pretty.
>
> The difference between the YCL-72CX and the '72CS is in the tone holes. The
> 'CS has integral undercut tone holes (more espensive), while the 'CX uses
> fiber inserts. Otherwise the instruments are identical. For the price they
> are wonderful. You even have silver-plated keys, and a nice double case. By
> the way, Buffet Accubore barrels sem to work fine with these instruments.
>
> What can I say but try them? I really don't enjoy my Buffets as much these
> days (my wife is playing on them, now).
>
This is a for what it's worth comment. I, too, had similar experiences
with my Yamaha clarinets. Centered tone, even sound, etc, etc. Then,
after two seasons and some recordings, I returned to my R13s when the
Yamahas basically feel apart. Just will not let me hold the sound together!
D. Oehler