 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: billryan
Date: 2004-01-28 19:53
Hey, I want to buy a new clarinet and the Selmer Signature looks very nice. Is there anyone on this board that has one? Problems? I've been playing for the last 6 years on a old R13 and I'm ready for my first new clarinet. My teacher likes the Selmer over the Buffet.
Bill
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Author: William
Date: 2004-01-28 20:27
"New" does not necessarily mean "better". With the R13, you are already playing a pro level clarinet that many consider the "best there is"--why change just for a new clarinet that may not be as good? I started out playing Selmers (CT & 10*), switched to Buffets and now play LeBlanc Concertos. I have auditioned the Signitures and I do not like them. In the practice room at the store, they sounded good. But on taking them into a playing situation, they demostrated a lack of flexability and focus in the sound which made musical expression quite difficult. I let other members of the ensemble also play them and they--playing a variety of older instruments--all agreed. There was "something" about the tone quality that lacked presence and projection. They are very well in tune with themselves with an even scale, but musically "stiff".
I would recommend having your "old" R13 made new with a complete overhall--new pads, corks, shinny keys....the "works". You may be pleasently surprized at how much better your Buffet (and you) will be able to play.
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Author: sherrietanner
Date: 2004-01-28 21:18
Hello Bill, I've been trying out new horns all week, with my instructor (and new best friend)! Well, I have to agree with William, the three Signatures that I tried, just didn't do it for me (I played the Selmer CT for years). They are very beautiful instruments, but it's the sound that counts. Why don't you check out the old posts on this forum for a ton of information on having your Clarinet restored. Names that come to mind are a Mr. Butler and Mr. Brannen. They are both known for doing excellent work on the R13 Buffet. As for me, I plan on tooting all over London till I find my new baby. My Best & Good Luck!
Sherrie
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Author: Ed
Date: 2004-01-29 12:16
There are a number of professionals in top positions that play the signature. You can check the Selmer website for more info. It is a different feel, but you have to see what is right for you. One suggestion made to me by one of the Selmer reps was that you may need a slightly lighter reed since there is a bit more resistance built into the instrument. Again, the key is play what is right for you.
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Author: thomas.b
Date: 2004-01-29 16:34
Yes, the selmer has a little more resistance, and this would be (for me) an argument for this instrument, because it makes it for me easier to play, the difference to my german clarinet is not so big, it "holds" the tone better in the upper registers. On the other side these instruments do not have the brilliant, resonant and bright sound of Buffet. I tried 3 Signatures, problems: Thumb rest was strange, ergonomics was different from Buffet, lowest e was flat (like German clarinets, but they have correction keys).
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Author: larryb
Date: 2004-01-29 20:19
I've been playing a Sig. with great enjoyment for the past four years - it's got great sound and reliable intonation throughout. I play in orchestra and chamber music. I use a Greg Smith 1* mouthpiece, but the Selmer C85 105 that came with the Signature is pretty good too - needs a harder reed for me.
One thing to be careful of: make sure the raised tone hole inserts are well sealed - mine were not originally and had to be corrected with crazy glue. Initially, I was really upset about this, but it works and I haven't had any problems with stuffiness. If this makes your hesitant, compare with comparable Buffets and Leblancs, of course, and then decide which works best for you.
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Author: Ralph
Date: 2004-01-30 00:09
Personally I believe that you ought to try the Signature. I know three individuals that have purchased the Signature and like it. All three switched from other makes of clarinet. When I purchase a new instrument later this year, I will have the Signature, Recital, Concerto/Opus and Buffet Vintage on my try list.
Ralph
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Author: LeOpus1190s
Date: 2004-01-30 03:42
I played signatures at Midwest and I thought they were excellent. Great intonation, much better than my buffets, a nice dark sound. People say they don't perform as well in orchestra I wouldn't know. But I have never heard of anyone saying playing with a darker intune sound not playing well...
- James
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Author: Gordon (NZ)
Date: 2004-01-30 11:36
The Buffet fixation does not have a stranglehold in NZ, and the pro Selmers are just as popular as Buffets. Peter Eaton and Howarth get a good look in too. There are some Yamahas but Yamaha pros have been poorly marketed - almost unavailable locally.
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Author: Rev. Avery
Date: 2004-01-30 15:39
Please pardon my ignorance, but what are "raised tone hole inserts" and what do they do?
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Author: sherrietanner
Date: 2004-02-03 13:38
Hello, Yesterday while checking out new horns, I came upon two Signatures in the shop. Since I had played three other Selmers just last week, I thought, why bother? I didn't care for the sound... at all! Guess what Sherrie bought? The lesson stated on this board many times is that each Clarinet is unique and you've got to try many to find "your best one". I guess it's akin to dating men ....maybe I better not go there. I'm extremely happy with the instrument and since my instructor was with me, I feel confident in my purchase.
Sherrie
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Author: billryan
Date: 2004-02-04 19:35
Hey, Thank you all for your advice. Sherrie, like you I found a perfect Signature and it only took a week of checking out every nyc area music store. I like the sound/tone and so does my music school professor. Solid, good looking instrument. I'm also keeping my Buffet and during the summer break will have it brought back to life by one of the specialist mentioned by you. I see that the board is looking for funds, can anyone suggest what is proper to donate?
Bill
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2004-02-04 19:48
Bill,
Whatever you would like. I'm sure that every little bit (no matter what you're definition of 'little') helps.
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
Post Edited (2004-02-04 19:50)
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Author: Tim P
Date: 2004-02-04 20:08
bill ryan ask: I see that the board is looking for funds, can anyone suggest what is proper to donate?
I did the math--- Mark says he needs $5000.00 if 200 donors then $25.00.
what cheap deal for all the info that I have gotten. I gave a little more than that. Maybe once the tuition bill comes in for my daughter I will give a little more.
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