Klarinet Archive - Posting 000035.txt from 1995/11

From: CLARK FOBES <reedman@-----.COM>
Subj: Re: Student model clarinets
Date: Thu, 2 Nov 1995 18:50:09 -0500

Buying clarinets for students is indeed problematic. In the years
that I used to repair student model instruments I always found the
Yamaha and the Vito clarinets to be of excellent quality. I believe
that some Vito and Yamaha clarinets are actually the same instrument.

Of the Vito clarinets I thought the VSP was a great student
instrument. They also seem to hold up very well.

I do not recommend wooden student model instruments or "step up"
models, although the Buffet E-11 is an exceptionally fine instrument in
that category. The cost of a new step up instrument is usually the same
or higher than a good used Buffet R-13. It would be much better in my
opinion to purchase a good used professional clarinet that will hold
it's value.

As regards the "Catalogue companies". Well, I guess they have there
place. I can't compete with those guys on a price level, so I beat them
on product and service. (I do not sell student instruments, however.) I
think it would be better for you to deal with a local store that will
give you some back up service. Almost all new instruments will need
adjustment and hopefully that will be part of any purchase warranty you
work out. With the mail order places you get a good price, but that's
it.

Clark W Fobes