Klarinet Archive - Posting 000577.txt from 1996/02

From: David Bourque <bassethn@-----.COM>
Subj: Re: Bass Clarinets
Date: Mon, 19 Feb 1996 09:00:28 -0500

>I've enjoyed the discussion on equipment. I still play my Buffet R-13 that I
>bought in the 60's, along with a Kaspar-Chicago mouthpiece and moenning
>barrel, simply because I've never played anything I like better. I am
>looking for a new bass clarinet for symphony work. The one I like best is
>the Yamaha YCL 622 which goes down to low C. Has anyone else used this?
> What you think of it? How does it compare with the Selmer and Buffet?
> Judy Figi

Judy:

For what it is worth, I play a Selmer Model 33. I picked it out of a bunch
of BCLs at Selmer Paris in 1986. I have never found other instruments that
work for me the way Selmers do. (I have not yet tried the new Selmer,
however.) The new Buffet is a beautiful instrument, well designed and
built, a beautiful sound, good pitch. However, it does not have the range
of colour and power that my Selmer has. I play in a rather loud wind
section and I need the weight and colour the Selmer has. I suspect,
although again I must admit that I have not tried it, the Yamaha would not
have the colours/weight. The last Yamaha I tried, a few years ago now,
certainly had this liability.

I guess it depends on the wind section that you'll be playing in, but my
money is on the Selmer.

Now if I could only get an endorsement fee from them.

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David Bourque
bassethn@-----.com
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