 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: SGTClarinet_7
Date: 2004-08-08 17:05
I heard the other day that cork pads are better. I would like to find out what y'all think. I searched archives and just found out how to change them, but nothing talking about the differences. If they are in fact better, is it really worth it to change them all? How does it affect the sound and response? Thanks!
Matthew
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Author: contragirl
Date: 2004-08-08 17:23
Most people replace the top joint of their clarinet with cork pads, and leave the bottom pads as bladder pads.
I really don't know why... but I know I got mine done when I had a big problem with condensation building up in my tone holes. So it might be because the upper joint gets more moisture and bladder pads tend to bubble up and get fat over time from condensation, especially small ones like on the top joint. So cork wouldn't absorb the moisture.
That's just my theory.
--CG
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Author: n_hanson12
Date: 2004-08-08 19:21
My uncle just did some work on my clarinet and he replaced most of my pads with cork ones. I don't know everything about them either, but I did notice that a lot of the stuffiness (better word for this??) is gone. I assume this has to do with the new pads. I notice it especially with the low C sharp (pinky key) Hmm...
~Nicki
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Author: Gordon (NZ)
Date: 2004-08-09 01:34
SGTClarinet_7, How are you doing your search?
When I search, using the words 'cork' & 'pads' I get the huge spectrum of previous discussion on this topic.
Contragirl's statement, "Most people replace the top joint of their clarinet with cork pads, and leave the bottom pads as bladder pads," although it may be a local truth for her, is my no means universal.
It depends really a lot on what has been locally established by the perspectives of any particular locality's players and technicians.
And that may well depend on climate, whether playing is done in the rain, etc.
Cork pads are not common where I live and work. Apart from for register keys, I install them only after request, or in an attempt to solve a particular problem.
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Author: Tara
Date: 2004-08-09 23:35
I had both my clarinets done by Brannens this year, and am very happy with it. I originally had my local repairman replace the top joint with cork because of my water problem- regular pads were practically swimming off of my clarinet. I find cork much better- no moisture absorption- they will last me much longer with no problems, and it is easier to eliminate water by swabbing, blowing, or papers. In my opinion, they are a necessity.
Tara
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Author: William
Date: 2004-08-10 16:43
Cork pads will last indefinately (some of mine are going on 20 yrs now), will not change and cause an untimely leak in the middle of a solo (or concert tour) and will resonate your sound for better tone projection to the audience, microphone, etc. They work well for me and I recommend them for any new or used soprano clarinet.
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Author: Melissa
Date: 2004-08-11 00:12
n_hanson12 wrote:
> My uncle just did some work on my clarinet and he replaced most of my pads with cork ones. I don't know everything about them either, but I did notice that a lot of the stuffiness (better word for this??) is gone. I assume this has to do with the new pads. I notice it especially with the low C sharp (pinky key) Hmm...
The pads on the bottom of the top joint are often replaced with cork pads (no not universal). This is because they become water damaged very easily and start to sound "stuffy". As they become damaged they become very frail & bubbly and as your air passes through the tone hole it becomes distorted. This distortion makes the note sound stuffy. Since your pads have been fixed the tone of those particular notes has improved (as you said).
Melissa
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Author: Gordon (NZ)
Date: 2004-08-11 02:46
There are many very capable players who do not have the problems that Melissa describes with bladder pads. Perhaps it has something to do with the quality of the pads used, and the way they are installed.
It is NORMAL for stuffiness to be cured with proper venting, and removal of leaks, both of which will be associated with ANY half decent repadding job.
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Author: contragirl
Date: 2004-08-11 03:31
Quality is a very important point in bladder pads. But most people want something that lasts a long time and will not be in danger of something going wrong, like with bladder. That is why Buffet offers Gore-Tex.
The problem with some pads is that it is a thin layer of "fish skin" over a piece of felt. Once you get a small hole or create some damage in the cover, it just sops up the water.
--CG
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Author: LeOpus1190s
Date: 2004-08-12 08:35
I vote for Cork. Brannens do it and must do it for a reason thats beyond me. All I know is my horns come back better than when i sent them in.
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