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Backun Alpha BASS vs. Royal MAX

Author: Kalashnikirby
Date: 2024-10-27 17:01

After my positive review on the Thomann synthetic Bass clarinet (which one can buy in the US under a different name) I thought: OK, there's obviously even better synthetic options availabe, but at least here in Europe I know I'll never get to test both the Alpha and the Royal. In fact, I know of a shop in France that occasionally stocks the Royal MAX and there's Adams music in the Netherlands who (accordingly to them) will stock the Alpha within 2-3 months.

So: Does anyone have the faintest idea how these two would compare? Maybe not side-by-side, but anything? I'm also well aware of the videos Mr. Lowenstern has made on both of these, but I'd like to hear input from you guys.

Best regards
Christian

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Re: Backun Alpha BASS vs. Royal MAX

Author: RBlack
Date: 2024-10-27 22:44

I’ve tried both, but minimally. My partner owns a max, and I’ve play tested an alpha at a local retailer.
My initial impressions though, is that there’s not a clear answer of which one is “better,” but just different. Both have good quality keywork, are quite easy blowing.
The max has thumb keys for D, Db, C; the alpha has Eb, Db, and C. So you might have a strong preference one way or the other there. The alpha also has an articulated C#/G#, and the max doesn’t.
I will likely purchase an alpha at some point, in part because it’s a lower price where I am at least.

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Re: Backun Alpha BASS vs. Royal MAX

Author: kilo
Date: 2024-10-27 22:51

The Max, made of composite, is heavy while the Alpha is plastic and significantly lighter.

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