Klarinet Archive - Posting 000223.txt from 1994/12

From: Neil Leupold <Ndt123@-----.COM>
Subj: Re: Clarinet purchase Advice
Date: Mon, 12 Dec 1994 01:54:07 -0500

Brad,

I think you'll get the following from a lot of people on this forum: The
Prestige model IS a nice instrument, and I myself play on a matched set, but
you can do just as well with a standard R-13. The Prestige has nice features
like metal tenon rings and compulsory silver plating. The wood is supposedly
seasoned a little differently, perhaps a little longer than the standard R-13
in order to further insure against potential cracking in the event of sudden
weather and altitude changes. And then there's the questionable extra Ab/Eb
key, which I've found many players to be annoyed with. I myself really like
the extra key and have found enjoyment in challenging myself to be equally as
comfortable in its use as with the standard Ab/Eb key. As I'm sure Clark
Fobes can corroborate, many players actually go so far as to have this key
removed altogether, replaced with the standard left-hand mechanism on the
lower joint.

Getting back to the comparison, the opinions that I've heard on the subject
indicate that if you were to go to the Buffet outlet in Chicago (?) and play
through a string of R-13's and Prestiges, you'd be more likely to find a
really good standard R-13 which would meet the needs of any professional than
you would be likely to find an equally good Prestige. It depends on the
qualities you seek, in large part. My understanding is that an exceptional
Prestige will be better than most standard R-13's, but that you're not very
likely to find one without a great deal of trial and experimentation. The
standard R-13 is such a good instrument in itself, the differences between it
and the Prestige don't seem compelling enough to spend the extra $1000. I
just did it because I happened to have the money to spend and my teacher
recommended it at the time. I think I got lucky in the quality of my
instruments, but then, I'll bet you EVERY Prestige owner says that! :-)

You might get further commentary on the subject from Dan Leeson, Clark Fobes,
and the like. They know a great deal more than I do, so I would take their
words in good faith and believe in their experience in this area
particularly.

Neil Leupold