Klarinet Archive - Posting 000069.txt from 1995/05

From: David Gilman <dagilman@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: cork pads
Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 12:41:47 -0400

> I know there are many interesting discussions going on and I
>was wondering if the list was interested in one more. I have been
>contemplating putting cork pads on my clarinet. I know some
>people that this is a must and others don't think it is worth the
>money. What is the opinion out there on this. I know that getting
>cork pads seals faster than regular pads and it allows you the option
>to lighten the springs to make the key action looser and faster.
>Some I have talked to say that the tone becomes brighter for some
>reason with cork pads.
>
> Also a side note. Put what ever you find for the earlier about
>African Blackwood question on the list because this is a very
>interesting topic that myself and I'm sure others are interested.
>
>Thanks.
>
>
>
>
>S. E. Talbot (talb4841@-----.edu)
>
>
I have cork pads on my Selmer, and I love them. I've had them for seven
years now, and I haven't had to adjust or replace a single one. After I had
them installed, the instrument played much more easily than before. But,
there are caveats. The cork must be of the highest quality, otherwise the
pores in it will be large enough to cause leaks. Also, the pads must be
perfectly seated, since they are firm and do not "give" like softer bladder
pads. If you have them put on, have it done by the best repairman you can
find. Bill Brannen (Evanston, IL) did mine.

As for the tone, I have not noticed a substantial difference in my own case.
My current repairman says Mr. Laubin (who makes the Laubin oboe) is
vehemently against putting them on his oboes because they brighten the sound
too much. I'm sure we'll find plenty of other opinions!

David Gilman