 The Clarinet BBoard
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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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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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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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Author: tdufka
Date: 2024-11-03 01:44
Would anyone care to comment with their subjective impressions of the sound differences between the Max and the Alpha?
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Author: Kalashnikirby
Date: 2024-11-06 18:34
RBlack, thanks for the initial impressions.
As far as this whole topic is concerned: I'll try to write up everything I can find out as soon as the first Backun basses arrive here in Europe - which, to my knowledge will happen sometime in January.
Regarding the "controversy" and strong feelings people seem to have about different bass clarinets and Backun having a sales model they don't appreciate (because Buffet is so much better, haha) I'll just say this: The composite Thomamn/generic chinese Bass (which clearly is neither ebonite, nor ABS, so I suspect it has something to do with the royal instruments) sounded really nice, the Max might be even better, but doesn't offer real innovation. Now, making an ENTIRELY new bass clarinet and offering it at a fair price point is fantastic in it's own right, wether or not the Q/Alpha can "beat" other basses. That's why I'm only asking how these 2 certainly excellent synthetic instruments compare.
Personally, I'd prefer the sound and feel of a Buffet Bass, but Selmers are what many people I know go for. Both are fine instruments, now we get a new serious contender (that isn't a copy of some design).
If I got more to say, I'll reply or make a new thread, but that's all I've got to say for now.
Best regards
Christian
Post Edited (2024-11-06 18:36)
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