Klarinet Archive - Posting 000805.txt from 1996/08

From: mipresc@-----.INDSTA
Subj: Re: R-13 Shopping (fwd)
Date: Fri, 30 Aug 1996 15:35:09 -0400

Forwarded message:
>
> I will attempt to answer Gary Van Cott's questions regarding R-13's:
>
>
>
> >Question 1. Roughly what percentage of R-13s are really quality
> >instruments? Another way to ask this is how many instruments did you
> >try before you found one you really liked?
>
> I'd say that all professional quality instruments are "quality
> instruments." To the more advanced clarinetist, certain aspects (sound,
> ease of blowing, amount of desired resistance) may be of more importance
> than others. In other words the way an instrument "feels" is entirely
> subjective.
>
>
> >Question 2. While any instrument I select should be mechanically
> >sound and play well in all registers, I expect to make my selection
> >based primarily on tone quality and intonation. Is this reasonable
> >or are there other factors I should be looking for or watching out for
> >(see next question)?
>
> Any instrument (new) that is not mechanically sound, does not seal properly
> and/or is not properly adjusted should either be sent back to inspector #12
> or to the repair technician that prepared it. It's too difficult to judge
> an instrument if it is not in proper repair. It is reasonable for you to
> expect a tone quality and an overall good intonation with which you feel
> comfortable. The way (as previously stated) it feels (blowing, hand
> position etc.) is as important as intonation.
>
>
> >Question 3. What kind of defects can be expected in new R-13s? Which
> >should be cause for immediate rejection and which can be easily
> >fixed?
>
> I think I've answered this question above. The main thing I look for
> (visually) when purchasing a clarinet is straight wood grain. Knots
> (though not always...no pun intended) can lead to cracks.
>
>
>
> Steve.
>
> Steve Prescott
> Instrument Rep.Tech./ Clarinetist
> Indiana State University
> mipresc@-----.edu