 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: LJBraaten
Date: 2012-10-17 18:46
I've been alternating between a Luyben and BG Super Revelation (I'll explain if there's interest) for several weeks. Does anyone take the Luyben tightening directions seriously??
I find the directions to move the ligature down as far as possible and tighten with pliers to stretch into place (if necessary to obtain the 1/8" gap) to be somewhat misguided.
* It contradicts other advice concerning not overtightening ligatures, and thus allowing the reed to vibrate more freely. (Why some prefer a string or velcro). Of course if it stretches, then it will eventually be "just right?"
*It assumes one will always be playing on the same mouthpiece. (Mouthpiece thicknesses vary, I have several, but usually only use one).
*It assumes one will always use the same thickness of reed, since reed thicknesses vary by cut. (I play at least four thicknesses, probably closer to six).
*It assumes one will always use the same length of reed, since reed lengths vary by cut. (Sliding the ligature down farther on a longer reed will usually result in a thicker section of mouthpiece). (I play at least three lengths).
*It assumes all reeds, that are the same cut, require the ligature be in exactly the same spot or require the same tightness. (I find it necessary to adjust the ligature until I find the ideal spot for the variables in the reed I am playing).
*Theoretically, if one wanted to use only Luybens according to directions, one would have to have a dedicated ligature shaped for each mouthpiece and reed combination.
*Finally, I tried tightening a clear Luyben with pliers according to directions on my Granddaughter's Hite, and stress marks appeared in the plastic. It looked to me like it was in danger of cracking or breaking.
So I continue to hand tighten my one Luyben, somewhat snugly, without recourse to directions. Am I missing a great sound? (see my signature!)
Laurie
Laurie (he/him)
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Author: Ed Palanker
Date: 2012-10-17 20:02
Well first of all I have to say I don't use the Luyben simply because I don't like the way it makes my reeds sound. Secondly I do believe in making a ligature "snug" but not so tight as to choke off the reed virtation. That's one of the many reasons I've been using the material Rovners for years, as apposed to his metal one, though I do like the reverse type now with the screw and bars on the reed side.It doesn't choke off the reed. The other thing is that I like to keep the ligature up high so it's just below where the vamp meets the bark. There are two reasons I like to do that, number one, that's how I find I get the best result for me, secondly, that helps prevent any air or "water" leaking from the sides of the mouthpiece. Even though that may not be a big problem for most, even the slightest air leak on the sides of the MP facing will creat a problem, that's why your reeds need to seal so well. That keeps my reeds sealing just fine.
ESP eddiesclarinet.com
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Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2012-10-17 21:45
The Luyben instructions say to make it as tight as possible. I have one, and for me, the tighter it is the better it plays. The plastic is so flexible that I think there's no need to pre-form it to the mouthpiece, though it doesn't hurt.
I'd say to give it a try with the the screws as tight as you can get them with your fingers (no pliers, though). I doubt that you'll break it, and a replacement is only $12 http://www.luybenmusic.com/ligature.htm.
Ken Shaw
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Author: donald
Date: 2012-10-18 03:29
It's some time since i saw the "instructions" for a Luyben ligature, but as i recall the "as tight as possible" instruction, and advice to use pliers!, is ONLY for when you are following the instructions re "breaking the ligature in" bit at the start (and not intended for "normal use"). I could be wrong...
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Author: LJBraaten
Date: 2012-10-18 04:08
You are correct about the instructions, Donald. I see that I could have been clearer. The tightening process is for shaping the ligature to the mouthpiece by stretching it. This process may take several days. Once stretched however, it will only fit one mouthpiece/ reed configuration, hence my concerns.
Laurie
Laurie (he/him)
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Author: Buster
Date: 2012-10-18 04:40
I reiterate: no... really....... no
Eventually you'll find a way back to where you stand currently without any ligature acrobatics or super-snuggin' Luyben lunacy.
Of course, stretching a Bonade to the point where the plating cracks, or a Luyben where the plastic is overly stressed may lead to a tonal blah-blah-blah .... but I'd wager a menial amount at the end of the day.
Meh..……
-Jason
Post Edited (2012-10-18 17:52)
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Author: Tobin
Date: 2012-10-18 19:07
Donald is correct -- it's only during the first days of use when the ligature (which is not really mouthpiece shaped) forms to your mouthpiece.
For the majority of the time you use it you'll tighten it as you do all your other ligatures -- as much as you find necessary and no more.
For the money, the Luyben is a great ligature. YMMV.
James
Gnothi Seauton
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Author: stevesklar
Date: 2012-10-26 19:11
wow, I never broke mine in properly 30+ years ago (never used the pliers). though I still have it and use it from time to time. I mostly just "slip" it on as tight as I can.
My main lig is a 3 way tie of BG Super Revelation, vintage inverted Bonade and vintage Harrison.
==========
Stephen Sklar
My YouTube Channel of Clarinet Information
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