Klarinet Archive - Posting 001077.txt from 1997/08

From: Gary Hopkins <ghopkins@-----.net>
Subj: Re: Pad question
Date: Mon, 25 Aug 1997 20:32:39 -0400

The talk about the different types of clarinet pads on this list reminded me
of pads that I came in contact with in the late sixites when I was just
starting in the repair business. The place I worked had some pads in stock
that weren't being made any longer. These were like conventional clarinet
pads with the cardboard backing, pressed or woven felt, fish skin covering,
but between the skin and the felt there was a very thin layer of cork. These
pads, when installed properly, formed an extremely tight seal and seemed to
last a long time. I used them a few times on customers instruments, but I
repadded my Leblanc Eb with these pads. That was in 1968 or 69, and they
were still in the upper joint until I pulled them all out and installed cork
pads last week. It has been ages since I have seen any of these pads.

I was sent a set of Straubinger clarinet pads by a fella that owed me some
pads. I have yet to install them in anything, but they look as if they might
cause the sound of the instrument to be a little bright. Have the pads in
your clarinet changed the sound as far as you can tell. Also, if they are
using the same old skin that has been used for ages it seems that they will
be subject to the same problems that occur to conventional bladder pads. Any
thoughts?

Gary

At 09:04 PM 8/20/97 -0400, you wrote:
>I'd like to second the motion about Straubinger. My clarinets are equipped
>with Straubinger pads and they are superior to anything I know of. They
>are a combination of plastic inside and real bladder on the outside. So
>they vent like a blader pad (no hissing like on many artificial pads) and
>they seal like a vacuum. Also, because of the bladder, they can conform to
>the tone hole even if tiny burrs and chips occur. Try to say that about
>those rubber pads whch don't change!
>
>Fred Jacobowitz
>Clarinet/Sax Instructor, Peabody Preparatory
>
>On Wed, 20 Aug 1997 MONOMOY48@-----.com wrote:
>
>> To pad question:
>>
>> I also just bought a Prestige R-13 with Gortex Pads. They seem to be just
>> great. However after talking to Mr. Straubenger from Indianapolis (who by
>> the way has the corner on the pad market) he believes that a new horn should
>> be sent to him to have his pads put into the clarinet. I have seen some of
>> his work and it is stunning! The pads you have on your horn will probably
>> work just fine but when you are ready to have work done, talk to Mr.
>> Straubenger.
>>
>> Bob Tolton,
>> Retired Army Band
>>
>
>
>