Klarinet Archive - Posting 000537.txt from 2002/04

From: Tom.Henson@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Prestige RC vs. Prestige R13
Date: Fri, 19 Apr 2002 09:46:10 -0400

Good morning to all!

In my ongoing search for an A clarinet I have just sent back 3 R13
Greenlines to IMS which I play tested.

Lisa did her usual good job of picking out good sounding clarinets, but I
was not happy with the quality of the blanks used. The tenons all had small
chips and were generally roughly finished. Buffet's one of a kind machine
for making Greenlines is broken right now and they had no stock of Festival
Greenlines in A which I was wanting as I have one in Bb that is great. From
what I gather it could be a while before they start making them again.

Now I am considering testing a Prestige model. I already know about some
people having problems with a middle tenon wobble, but figure this can be
worked out, if and when needed.

My big question now is whether to look at the RC bore or the R13 bore. I
tend to like a European sound which is not as bright as the typical R13. I
understand also that this is the last incarnation of bore design on the R13
by Robert Caree (not sure of spelling) and is supposed to improve intonation
as well as some other problems.

Can anyone out there comment on their experience between the two. Right now
I am leaning toward the RC to try out as I have heard a couple of recordings
of the Mozart concerto with this instrument and was impressed by the
difference in tone that I heard which I liked.

I would also welcome any comments from people who use both Bb and A on a
regular basis as to the value of trying to match the set. I have been told
that it is best from a finger and mouthpiece setup standpoint to have a
matched set to minimize any possible differences in keys and setup needs.

Thanks

Tom Henson

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