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Re: Cork vs. Bladder pads

Author: clarnibass
Date: 2006-08-26 06:01

"If the key seemed to be shorter (or longer) and out of center because of that, then the job is better left for more experience technician."

Yes the key was exactly like that, longer than the tone hole. The reason I bought this Bundy is to practice repairs. The total I would pay for a repairer to do just this one fix (including driving) would probably be more than I paid for the insturment.

"This type of bending is more complicated and requires experience, common sense, and tools."

By common sense alone I could do it even with the tools I have, but I thought that in this specific case there was absolutely no reason to not just use a stepped bladder pad. Much easier solution, doesn't require bending, and works perfectly. The throat G# tone hole is well ventilated on this clarinet so the pad type doesn't really matter (especially since it is a closed pad).

"to seat a bigger leather pad (than required) is not that easy task because the pad just doesn't move that easy when you want it to. Later, when you get the idea how it's done, it's nothing but a piece of cake."

Maybe after some practice I will be able to do it, but on pro clarinets I would just correct the pad-cup and tone-hole allignment, so a regular leather pad would fit. But, in this specific case of the Bundy, using your method of making a stepped leather pad would be problematic. The pad-cup is already very close to the trill key. The bladder pad just barely doesn't touch the trill key (on pro clarinets unlikely to happen). For the leather pad to seal, it would actually need to be bigger than the bladder pad, and touch the trill key.

Chris Arcand - What is probably the best option for you, is to make an appointment with your repairer. Have him look at the intrument and show him the buzzing notes. If he is an honest person he might find and suggest a much cheaper solution to fix these buzzes, for example just increasing ventilation. Try that first. It is also possible you would like cork pads even if possible to fix the buzzes in other ways. Try a cork pad or two, maybe you won't like their hardness and noise. Try a leather pad, you might like it, or not like that it's soft and quiet. It is very possible that he will find many other things to fix and not only the buzzing notes and pads. Sitting with the repairer and together finding the best solutions (i.e. he making suggestions and correcting and you try them by playing) is in my opinion the best way to go. He can change some keys to fit your hands more comfortably, something that is impossible without you present.

Good luck.

Post Edited (2006-08-26 09:35)

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Cork vs. Bladder pads new

ChrisArcand

2006-08-25 00:47