 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Allen Cole
Date: 2000-04-17 13:59
I'm looking for a bass clarinet to use for doubling and in student chamber groups. I see that there a fair amount of Bundys, Vitos and Yamahas floating around.
I'd like to know how they compare in intonation and playability. Anybody got the goods?
Allen
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Author: Dave Spiegelthal
Date: 2000-04-17 14:15
I really like the Vitos (which are the same instrument as the plastic Yamahas) much more so than the Bundys. The mechanism of the Vito is simple and sturdy, intonation (at least on the later models) is very good, tone is very good down low and adequate (though not especially good) in the clarion register, altissimo response is on par with the professional instruments. I'm a semi-pro bass clarinetist and was using a Vito regularly until just recently. Not a pro-level horn, but darned good for the money, IMHO. If you get a Vito, beware that some versions have fishskin (bladder) pads (BAD), and some have leather (kid) pads (GOOD).
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Author: SusieQ
Date: 2000-04-17 18:37
Another option may be the Woodwind Bass Clarinet. It is a new item in their spring/summer catalog for $850. I am waiting for them to call me back on specifics. I would like to replace my old Bundy. As Dave said, leather pads are best. I know 2 people who have purchased Woodwind alto saxes and are real pleased with the quality. I am hoping the bass clarinet is as good a value. I will post a message on the BB if I find out any info. Best of Luck.
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Author: Allen Cole
Date: 2000-04-18 08:02
I see that there's a $230 difference in the list price between bladder and leather pads. I'm glad to know that, though.
I have to agree about the Woodwind saxes. I tried a Woodwind tenor a few years ago and it blew better than my Mark VI. That's kinda scary, to say the least...
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Author: SusieQ
Date: 2000-04-19 18:50
Allen,
I just heard back from WW&BW. The fellow I talked to checked out the Woodwind bass clarinet and was totally unimpressed. It doesn't have the leather pads and he didn't like the quality. He also said they are getting an upgraded version in about 6 weeks. Maybe this one is better. He suggested the Vito with the leather pads for around $1000. If you can find a good playable used one, all the better, but an overhaul on a BC can be quite expensive. Good Luck!
SusieQ
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Author: SusieQ
Date: 2000-04-20 16:06
Allen,
I was quoted approx. $300 for an overhaul on my old Bundy from the local technician, which is a bargain for the quality of his work. WW&BW advertise an overhaul for $600. Depending on what is needed you can expect to pay anywhere between the two figures. That's the problem with bass clarinets. If you find a use one and it needs work, it can cost as much as a new student model. I was extremely lucky when I found mine at a pawn shop for $100, 16 years ago, and it was in playing condition. Keep your eyes and ears open, you never know what might turn up.
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Author: Kurt
Date: 2000-04-21 18:36
The Vito is a nice instrument. I bought once late last year and am pretty happy with it. I will agree that the leather pads may make a big difference at least around the break. I have to treat B above the register with kid gloves on my instrument. I've also heard that a cork pad on the register key is an improvement. I played the Leblanc mid range horn (single reg. key, wood) and found it to play the same as the Vito. Since they are the same company, the horns were nearly identical. The Vito is not wood, though. The only thing I miss is a low C but maybe next time.....
Anyway, I got a note from the Witchita Band Co. They have a used Vito they claim is in great condition; new pads and all. I think they said something like $700 dollars. They have a website so if you search for them I'm sure you'll find it.
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