Klarinet Archive - Posting 001361.txt from 1997/10

From: Neil Leupold <nleupold@-----.edu>
Subj: Evaluation procedures
Date: Wed, 29 Oct 1997 22:54:44 -0500

I'm in the process of evaluating prospective clarinets
for a student of mine. We have a nice cross-section of
advanced student models and professional models, and
checking the intonation of each note throughout the
range is an obvious place to start. What other areas
should receive attention in a thorough evaluation of
a clarinet's quality and worth? Equal resistance from
bottom to top comes to mind, as well as checking the
intonation gap at the 12th. Things such as mechanical
function are not too much of a concern, because three
of these instruments are brand new and I can detect
any quirks over the course of playing a few excerpts.

Thus:

(1) Check intonation of each note throughout the range
(2) Vacuum test each joint for pad seal/leaks
(3) Guage resistance from bottom to top
(4) Check intonation at the 12th
(5) Mechanical function

What other routine objective investigation should occur
when testing a new horn?

Thanks,
Neil